Introduction
Air fryer wings have become a kitchen staple for anyone who loves a quick, restaurant-style snack without the mess. By following a simple set of steps, you can turn a bag of raw wings into a crispy, flavorful treat in just 25 minutes.
At a Glance
- Fast cooking: 20 minutes total at 400°F.
- Single-layer rule: Avoid overcrowding to keep wings crisp.
- Easy sauce: Mix butter and Frank’s RedHot for a classic buffalo finish.
- Why it matters: Saves time, reduces oil use, and delivers consistent results.
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Wings
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken wings | 1 pack (about 15 wings) |
| Frank’s RedHot hot sauce | ½ cup |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons, melted |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
The combination of spices gives the wings a balanced flavor profile, while the butter-hot sauce mix creates a creamy, spicy coating.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Wings
- Pat the wings dry and place them in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Season the wings by sprinkling the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and pepper. Toss until every piece is coated.
- Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. If your basket is too small, cook in batches.
- Cook at 400°F for 10 minutes, flip, and cook another 10 minutes.
- While the wings cook, melt the butter in a small saucepan. Add Frank’s RedHot and simmer for 3-4 minutes.
- Once the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F, transfer them to a bowl and pour the sauce mixture over them.
- Toss to coat evenly, then serve immediately with dipping sauce, carrots, and celery.
### Tips for Crispy Wings
- Avoid stacking: Wings must have room for hot air to circulate.
- Check temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure doneness.
- Keep it dry: Excess moisture can lead to sogginess.
Sauce Options
- Classic Buffalo: Butter + Frank’s RedHot.
- Spicy Honey: Mix honey with a dash of hot sauce.
- Garlic Parmesan: Butter, minced garlic, grated Parmesan.
Feel free to experiment; the air fryer handles most sauces well when added after cooking.
FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How long does it take to cook chicken wings in the air fryer? | Cook for 20 minutes (10 minutes per side) at 400°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. |
| Should I coat my wings before air frying? | Toss the wings in a small amount of oil and seasonings before cooking. Apply sauce after cooking. |
| Can I use a different air fryer? | Yes; adjust cooking time if needed, but the single-layer rule remains essential. |
Other Air Fryer Recipes to Try
- Whole roast chicken
- Crispy baked potato
- Brussels sprouts
- Chicken fingers
- Chicken thighs
- Chickpeas
- Salmon
These recipes follow similar principles: a single-layer layout, moderate temperatures, and a final sauce or seasoning added after cooking.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer wings offer a convenient, healthier alternative to deep-fried wings without sacrificing flavor. By keeping the wings in a single layer and cooking at the right temperature, you’ll achieve a crisp exterior and juicy interior every time.
—
Written by Ethan R. Coleman at News Of Los Angeles
