Crispy juicy and full of flavor, air fryer chicken wings are the ultimate appetizer or snack. Made without the excess oil of traditional frying they’re a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Perfect for game days parties or a quick dinner option.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (about 20) chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or cooking spray)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Optional: Your favorite wing sauce (e.g., buffalo, BBQ, honey garlic)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Wings:
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This ensures they crisp up in the air fryer.
- Toss the wings in olive oil to lightly coat them. This helps the seasoning adhere and adds crispiness.
- In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Sprinkle this mixture over the wings, ensuring an even coating.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Wings:
- Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded (you may need to cook in batches).
- Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the wings over and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Optional Sauce Toss:
- If using a sauce, transfer the cooked wings to a bowl, pour the sauce over, and toss until evenly coated. Return them to the air fryer for 2-3 minutes for a caramelized finish.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving, Approx. 4 Wings):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g (without sauce)
- Sodium: 400mg
- Cholesterol: 85mg
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion size and sauce used.)
Cooking Time:
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Wings:
- Dry Wings = Crispy Skin: Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin. Always pat the wings dry before seasoning.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Leave space between the wings so air can circulate freely for even cooking.
- Use a Thermometer: To ensure the wings are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Reheat in the Air Fryer: To revive leftover wings, heat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to regain crispiness.
