Air Fryer Chicken Wings.

Ingredients

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

Optional Buffalo Sauce

• ¼ cup melted butter
• ¼ cup hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Optional Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions

For Serving

• Ranch dressing
• Blue cheese dressing
• Celery sticks
• Carrot sticks

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings

1. Pat the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels. Removing excess moisture is one of the most important steps for achieving crispy skin. If the wings are wet, they will steam instead of crisping.

Step 2: Season the Wings

1. Place the wings in a large mixing bowl. Add the olive oil and toss until lightly coated.
2. Sprinkle in the baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Toss thoroughly so every wing is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 to 5 minutes. Preheating helps the wings begin cooking immediately, resulting in crispier skin.

Step 4: Arrange the Wings

1. Place the wings in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket because proper airflow is essential for even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.

Step 5: Air Fry the Wings

1. Cook the wings at 380°F (193°C) for 20 minutes.
2. Halfway through cooking, open the basket and flip each wing with tongs. This ensures even browning on all sides.

Step 6: Increase the Temperature

1. Raise the temperature to 400°F (204°C) and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
2. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Step 7: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce (Optional)

1. While the wings finish cooking, whisk together the melted butter, hot sauce, honey, and garlic powder until smooth.
2. Transfer the cooked wings to a large bowl and toss them with the sauce until evenly coated.

Step 8: Serve

1. Serve the wings immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, and carrot sticks. Garnish with parsley or green onions for extra freshness.

Notes

Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 395 · Protein: 30g · Fat: 29g · Carbohydrates: 2g · Saturated Fat: 8g · Fiber: 0g · Sugar: 0g · Sodium: 720mg