Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings

These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings are perfectly seasoned with irresistibly crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. No deep frying is needed, making them a quick and delicious appetizer, snack, or game-day favorite.

Ingredients

2 lb (900 g) chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Optional Sauces

Buffalo sauce
BBQ sauce
Honey garlic sauce
Garlic Parmesan sauce
Sweet chili sauce

For Serving

Ranch or blue cheese dressing
Celery sticks
Carrot sticks

Instructions

Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels.
In a large bowl, toss the wings with the olive oil.
In a separate bowl, combine the baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
Coat the wings evenly with the seasoning mixture.
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each wing.
Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 20 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through.
Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 5–8 minutes, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Toss the wings in your favorite sauce, if desired, or serve them dry with dipping sauces on the side.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–28 minutes
Total Time: 35–38 minutes

Servings: 4

Tips

Drying the wings thoroughly is the key to extra-crispy skin.
Use aluminum-free baking powder, not baking soda, for the best texture.
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed.
For extra-crispy wings, let the seasoned wings rest in the refrigerator uncovered for 30 minutes before cooking.
Serve with fries, coleslaw, onion rings, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.