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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe

crispy air fryer chicken wings - featured image

This recipe delivers extra crispy, juicy chicken wings using a simple 5-step air fryer method with a baking powder dry rub for unbeatable crunch and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats, skin-on
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground if possible
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Optional: cayenne pepper for heat or dried herbs like thyme or oregano
  • Cooking spray or a light brush of oil (such as avocado oil)

Instructions

  1. Pat wings dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove moisture (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and optional cayenne pepper. Stir well.
  3. Add wings to the bowl and toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly with the dry rub. Let rest for 10 minutes.
  4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
  5. Arrange wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket with space between each piece. Lightly spray with cooking spray or brush with oil.
  6. Air fry wings for 25-30 minutes total, flipping halfway at 12-15 minutes. Wings should be golden, crackly, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  7. Let wings rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute and skin to stay crisp.

Notes

Use baking powder, not baking soda, to achieve crispy skin without bitterness. Pat wings dry thoroughly before applying rub. Cook wings in a single layer to avoid steaming. Flip wings halfway through cooking for even crispiness. If wings are not crispy enough after 30 minutes, add 3-5 minute increments carefully. Reheat leftovers in air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to refresh crispness.

Nutrition

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