How to Air Fry Chicken Wings

Super Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings are the ultimate game-day snack, quick dinner solution, and party favorite—all rolled into one irresistible dish. With the help of an air fryer, you can achieve shatteringly crisp skin without deep frying, excess oil, or messy cleanup.

These wings are seasoned simply, letting the natural flavor of chicken shine while delivering that crave-worthy crunch we all love. Whether you toss them later in buffalo sauce or serve them straight from the air fryer with dipping sauces, this recipe guarantees crispy perfection every single time.

1. Air Fryer Chicken Wings ( Yield: 2 Serving )

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken wings, separated into drummettes and flats
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt, or to taste
• 1/2 tsp white pepper
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tbsp neutral oil, I used avocado oil
• Tongs or silicone brush

Instructions

Prepare the chicken wings properly

Begin by separating the wings into drummettes and flats if they are not already cut. Pat the wings completely dry using paper towels. This step is extremely important—moisture on the skin prevents crisping, so the drier the wings, the better your results will be.

Season the wings

Place the dried wings into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle in the kosher salt, white pepper, and baking powder. Drizzle the avocado oil over the top. Use clean hands or tongs to toss the wings thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated. The baking powder is the secret ingredient that helps draw out moisture and create bubbly, crispy skin in the air fryer.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for at least 3 to 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the wings start cooking immediately when placed inside, helping the skin crisp faster and more evenly.

Arrange the wings in the basket

Place the wings skin-side up in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding. If necessary, cook in batches to maintain airflow between pieces. Proper air circulation is essential for that signature crispy texture.

First cooking phase

Air fry the wings at 380°F for 12–15 minutes. Halfway through, use tongs to flip each wing. This allows both sides to develop even color and texture.

Second cooking phase for extra crispiness

Increase the temperature to 400°F (204°C) and cook for an additional 5–8 minutes. This final blast of heat renders the remaining fat in the skin and creates those irresistibly crispy bubbles.

Rest and serve

Remove the wings and let them rest for about 3 minutes. This short resting period allows the juices to redistribute while keeping the exterior crisp. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, blue cheese, honey mustard, or spicy chili sauce.

2. Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Dry skin is everything

Don’t skip the step of patting the wings dry. Even a little extra moisture can make the skin rubbery instead of crispy.

Use baking powder, not baking soda

Baking powder is neutral in flavor and helps with crisping. Baking soda is much stronger and can leave a bitter taste.

Don’t overcrowd the basket

Wings need space for hot air to circulate. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents crisping.

Flip halfway for even browning

Turning the wings at least once during cooking ensures both sides cook evenly and develop a golden crust.

Adjust cook time by wing size

Larger wings may need a few extra minutes, while smaller wings may finish earlier. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Serve immediately for best texture

Air fryer wings are at their crispiest right after cooking. If they sit too long, steam can soften the skin.

3. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook frozen chicken wings in the air fryer?

Yes, frozen wings can be cooked in the air fryer, but they require a longer cook time and will not be quite as crispy as fresh, thoroughly dried wings. For best results, thaw the wings first and remove excess moisture before seasoning.

Why is baking powder used in this recipe?

Baking powder alters the pH of the chicken skin and pulls moisture to the surface, where it evaporates during cooking. This process creates tiny bubbles in the skin that lead to ultra-crisp texture without frying.

What sauces work best with crispy air fryer wings?

Classic buffalo sauce, garlic parmesan, sweet chili, honey barbecue, and lemon pepper glaze all pair beautifully with crispy wings. You can toss the wings right after cooking or serve sauces on the side.

How do I keep the wings crispy after cooking?

To keep wings crispy, place them on a wire rack instead of a plate so air can circulate underneath. Avoid covering them with foil, which traps steam and softens the skin.

Can I reheat leftover wings in the air fryer?

Yes, the air fryer is the best way to reheat wings while keeping them crispy. Reheat at 375°F for 4–6 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What’s the best way to tell when the wings are fully cooked?

The safest and most accurate way is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken wings are fully cooked when the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).

4. Nutrition Information

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on exact wing size and oil used.

Air fryer chicken wings are more than just a healthier alternative to deep frying—they’re a brilliant way to enjoy maximum crispiness with minimal effort. This recipe proves you don’t need flour, heavy batters, or gallons of oil to achieve restaurant-quality wings at home. With just a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you’ll get perfectly seasoned, juicy meat on the inside and crackly, golden skin on the outside.

Read More: Air Fryer Recipes for Beginners