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The Ultimate Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings (Juicy Inside, Crunchy Outside in Under 30 Minutes)

A mound of perfectly seasoned and crispy air fryer chicken wings piled high on a white plate.

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Welcome! I’m Sarah, and I’m so happy you’re here. These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings deliver restaurant-style crunch without deep frying. Using a simple baking powder trick, you get golden, juicy wings ready fast—perfect for game day or a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs chicken wings (flats and drumettes separated)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Optional: Your favorite wing sauce for tossing

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels. This step is key for crispy skin.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika. Mix the dry rub well.
  3. Add the dried chicken wings to the bowl. Toss until every piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit (195 degrees Celsius).
  5. Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary to allow air circulation.
  6. Air fry for 15 minutes.
  7. After 15 minutes, open the basket and flip the wings. Increase the air fryer temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
  8. Continue to cook for another 8 to 12 minutes, or until the wings are deeply golden brown and the skin is crackling crisp.
  9. Remove the wings from the air fryer. If you prefer sauced wings, immediately toss them in your favorite sauce while hot.
  10. Serve your extra crispy air fryer chicken wings immediately.

Notes

  • For the crispiest result, ensure your wings are very dry before seasoning. Moisture prevents crisping.
  • Do not skip the temperature increase at the end; this final blast of heat sets the crunch.
  • If you are using a sauce, toss the wings immediately after they come out of the air fryer so the sauce adheres to the hot, crisp skin.
  • This recipe focuses on a dry rub; for a healthier fried chicken alternative, skip the sauce entirely.

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