Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps achieve crispiness.
Seasoning the Wings:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix until evenly coated.
Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Cooking the Wings:
Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.
Cook for 20 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through.
Crisping Up:
Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 5 minutes to get the wings extra crispy.
Coating (Optional):
If desired, toss the cooked wings in buffalo sauce or your favorite wing sauce before serving.
Cooling:
Allow the wings to rest for 5 minutes to let the juices settle.
Serve:
Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, and carrot sticks for a classic pairing.
Benefits of Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Healthier Alternative:
Air frying eliminates the need for deep-frying, significantly reducing fat and calorie content.
Crispy Texture:
Achieves the perfect crispy skin without the greasiness of traditional frying.
Customizable Flavors:
Wings can be seasoned or sauced in countless ways, including teriyaki, barbecue, or lemon pepper.
High in Protein:
A great source of protein, making this a satisfying snack or meal option.
Quick and Easy:
Air fryer wings cook faster than oven-baked wings, with minimal effort and cleanup.
Perfect for Gatherings:
Ideal for game days, parties, or as a fun family meal.
Portion Control:
Cooking in batches allows better portion control, making it easier to serve a crowd or small group.