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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe for Extra Crunch Easy and Perfect

crispy air fryer chicken wings - featured image

This recipe delivers perfectly crispy chicken wings with an addictive crunch using simple pantry ingredients and an air fryer. It’s quick, easy, and healthier than deep frying, perfect for game day or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900g) chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes, skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (not baking soda)
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Olive oil spray or neutral oil, for light spraying
  • Optional: Hot sauce or buffalo sauce for tossing after cooking
  • Optional: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Rinse and thoroughly pat dry 2 pounds (900g) of chicken wings with paper towels to remove moisture.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1 teaspoon smoked paprika. Stir well.
  3. Toss the wings in the dry mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated. Use hands or tongs to rub the seasoning in.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
  5. Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding.
  6. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12 minutes. Halfway through, open and spray lightly with olive oil to help the skin crisp.
  7. Flip wings using tongs, spray again lightly with oil, and cook for another 10 to 12 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Add 2-3 extra minutes if you want extra crunch, checking frequently.
  8. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is visibly crisp.
  9. Optional: Toss wings in your favorite hot sauce or glaze immediately after cooking.

Notes

Patting the wings dry thoroughly is critical for crispiness. Do not substitute baking powder with baking soda as it affects taste and texture. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to prevent soggy wings. If you don’t have an air fryer, use a convection oven at 400°F (200°C) with a wire rack, flipping often. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken wings, air fryer wings, easy chicken wings, game day recipe, crunchy wings, healthy wings, baked wings