Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings

The air fryer changed everything about my wing game. I used to deep fry them during parties, splattering oil everywhere and making the whole house smell like a fast food joint for days. Then I discovered the baking powder trick, and honestly, these wings come out crisper than anything from a fryer. Now they're my go-to for Sunday football, and nobody believes they weren't fried.

Last Super Bowl, I made three batches of these wings for friends who swore by deep frying. They were skeptical about the air fryer, but by halftime, everyone was crowded around the kitchen watching the wings turn golden. The whole platter disappeared before the third quarter started.

Ingredients

• Chicken wings (1.5 lbs): Separating flats and drumettes helps them cook evenly and makes eating easier
• Baking powder (1 tbsp): This is the secret weapon that creates that irresistible crispy skin through a chemical reaction with the chicken
• Garlic powder (1 tsp): Essential for building flavor into the meat before it even hits the heat
• Onion powder (1 tsp): Works with garlic powder to create a savory base seasoning
• Paprika (1 tsp): Adds subtle earthiness and helps with that gorgeous golden color
• Kosher salt (1/2 tsp): Use kosher salt for cleaner seasoning that sticks better than table salt
• Freshly ground black pepper (1/2 tsp): Freshly cracked pepper makes a noticeable difference in brightness
• Hot sauce (1/3 cup): Franks RedHot is the classic choice, but any cayenne based sauce works beautifully
• Unsalted butter (3 tbsp): The butter mellows the heat and creates that silky, coat every wing texture
• Honey (1 tsp): Completely optional, but I love how it balances the acidity and heat
• Worcestershire sauce (1/2 tsp): Adds a layer of umami that makes the sauce taste complex and finished
• Celery and carrot sticks: These cool, crisp vegetables are the perfect counterpoint to the spicy, rich wings

Instructions

Prep the wings:

Pat the wings completely dry with paper towels, then toss them in a large bowl with baking powder and all the seasonings until every piece is evenly coated

Arrange in the air fryer:

Lay the wings in a single layer without touching, working in batches if necessary to maintain proper air circulation

Air fry to perfection:

Cook at 400°F for 24 to 26 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are deeply golden and audibly crispy

Make the Buffalo sauce:

While the wings cook, whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth

Toss and serve:

Transfer the hot wings to a clean bowl, pour the sauce over them, and toss until every wing is glossy and coated

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My neighbor now texts me every Sunday asking if wing night is happening. Her kids actually beg for these instead of ordering takeout, which might be my proudest kitchen victory.

Getting Extra Crispy Skin

The baking powder trick is revolutionary because it raises the pH of the skin, allowing it to crisp up at lower temperatures. I've tried cornstarch, potato starch, and every other hack, but nothing beats the baking powder method for consistent results every single time.

Sauce Seasoning Secrets

Always warm your Buffalo sauce before tossing it with the wings. Cold sauce makes hot wings lose their crunch instantly, and you want to maintain that texture you worked so hard to achieve. The butter should be fully melted and incorporated so it clings rather than pools.

Make Ahead Strategy

You can season the wings up to 24 hours in advance and keep them uncovered in the refrigerator. This drying time is actually beneficial for crispiness, so it's the perfect do ahead step for parties. Just let them come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before air frying.

• Double the sauce recipe and keep the extra in the fridge for emergency wing cravings
• Cut your vegetables the night before and store them in cold water to keep them crisp
• Line your serving platter with parchment paper for easier cleanup

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There is something deeply satisfying about serving food that makes people pause and genuinely ask what you did differently. These wings are that kind of recipe.

Recipe Questions

→ How do I get the wings extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, coat the wings with baking powder and let them rest uncovered in the fridge for an hour before air frying.

→ Can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?

Yes, adjust the heat by varying the amount of hot sauce or adding more honey for a milder flavor.

→ What is the best temperature and time for air frying wings?

Air fry wings at 400°F (200°C) for 24-26 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.

→ Are there any good alternatives to blue cheese dressing?

Ranch dressing is a popular alternative, or you can omit dressings to keep it dairy-free.

→ What side items complement these wings well?

Celery and carrot sticks add freshness and crunch, balancing the spicy, rich flavors of the wings.