Best Air Fryer Chicken Wings: 7 Easy Steps to Crispy Joy
Ever crave the best air fryer chicken wings without the mess (or guilt) of deep frying?
Same. The day I figured out how to get crispy air fryer chicken wings without drenching them in oil or waiting hours for the oven was the day my air fryer earned its permanent counter spot.
If you’re juggling work, family, or just a mountain of laundry that never seems to end (I see you, moms and multitaskers), these wings are your new BFF. With just a few pantry spices and a pack of chicken wings, you’ll have the kind of finger-licking dinner that makes everyone ask, “When are you making this again?”
Whether you’re throwing together a last-minute weeknight meal or hosting a game-day gathering, these air fryer wings are crispy, flavorful, and beyond easy—even if you start with frozen wings in the airfryer. Let’s dig in.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Best Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Besides being downright addictive, this recipe checks all the boxes:
- Quick & easy From fridge to plate in under 30 minutes.
- Healthier than fried Same crunch, way less oil.
- Flexible Use your favorite chicken wing marinade for air fryer or stick with this dry rub for a no-fuss win.
- Crowd-pleasing Even the picky eaters in my house go back for seconds.
Plus, I promise your kitchen will smell like touchdown-worthy comfort food without needing to babysit a hot pan of oil.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make the Best Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Grab these, and you’re halfway there:
- 2 lbs chicken wings (drums and flats defrosted if frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Psst: Want to use frozen wings? No problem check out this easy guide to cooking frozen wings in the airfryer.
How to Make Best Air Fryer Chicken Wings
1. Pat dry those wings.
Seriously, this step makes all the difference. Blot the wings with a paper towel until they’re as dry as possible. This helps them crisp up like crazy in the air fryer.
2. Season like a pro.
In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil. In a small dish, mix the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the spice blend over the wings and toss again to coat evenly.
3. Preheat your air fryer (if needed).
Some models don’t require this, but if yours does, preheat it to 400°F for about 3-5 minutes.
4. Cook in batches.
Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket (don’t crowd them!). Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes, then flip and cook another 8–10 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Want them extra crispy? Add 2–3 more minutes.
Want to take it up a notch? Toss the wings in one of my Best Air Fryer Chicken Wings Crispy & Zesty right after cooking.
Tips to Make the Best Air Fryer Chicken Wings
- No thaw? No sweat. Start from frozen and just add a few minutes of cooking time. Read my Best Way to Make Chicken Wings in Air Fryer Crispy.
- Avoid soggy wings. Make sure they’re in a single layer with a bit of space in between. Overcrowding traps steam.
- Crave variety? This basic spice blend is a canvas add cayenne for heat or lemon zest for a citrusy kick. You could also try a simple chicken wing marinade for the air fryer if you want them saucy.
A Little Wing Story (Because Every Recipe Has One)
When my mom first taught me how to make wings, they were baked low and slow, taking over an hour and a whole lot of clean-up. After she passed, I found myself chasing that same flavor with a little less effort (and a lot less oil splatter). The first time I nailed this air fryer version, it honestly brought tears to my eyes. Not just because of the taste, but because it reminded me of Sunday afternoons in her kitchen.
Now, my kids ask for these all the time, and I tell them: “This is Grandma’s recipe, just with a modern twist.”
FAQs about Best Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Can I cook frozen wings in the air fryer?
Yes! Just add about 5 extra minutes to the cook time and make sure to separate them once they start thawing. I have a whole post on cooking frozen wings in the airfryer.
What’s the best chicken wing marinade for the air fryer?
A simple honey garlic marinade or buffalo sauce works great. Check out this easy air fryer chicken wing marinade that won’t burn in the air fryer.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Pop them back in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–4 minutes until they’re hot and crispy again. Just as good the second time around promise!
Whether it’s game night, family dinner, or just a serious snack craving, these best air fryer chicken wings will hit the spot every single time. And hey, if you end up licking your fingers afterward? No judgment here.
Craving more easy air fryer dinners? Check out my Best Air Fryer Chicken Wing Recipes for Crispy Perfection for more ideas to simplify your weeknights with flavor and love.
