Air Fryer Classic Crispy Chicken Wings

Air Fryer Classic Crispy Chicken Wings

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings (split into drumettes and flats, or whole if preferred)

• 1 tablespoon baking powder (not baking soda—this is crucial for a crispy texture)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (regular paprika works if smoked isn’t available)

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (table salt can be substituted but use slightly less)

• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (more for extra flavor)

Optional Add-ons:

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a spicy kick)

• ½ teaspoon chili powder (to enhance smokiness)

Equipment Needed:

• An air fryer (minimum basket size of 5 quarts recommended for larger batches)

• Mixing bowl (large enough to toss the wings thoroughly)

• Paper towels or a clean kitchen towel

• Tongs (for easy handling)

Detailed Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Wings:

   • Begin by rinsing the chicken wings under cold water and patting them completely dry using paper towels. Removing as much moisture as possible is critical for ensuring a crispy result.

   • If your wings are whole, use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to separate them into drumettes and flats. Discard the wing tips or save them for making stock.

2. Season and Coat the Wings:

   • Place the wings in a large mixing bowl.

   • Sprinkle the baking powder evenly over the wings. This ingredient is the secret to achieving a crispy, golden-brown exterior. It raises the pH level of the chicken skin, making it more alkaline and promoting browning.

   • Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you prefer spicier wings, now is the time to include cayenne pepper or chili powder.

   • Using your hands or tongs, toss the wings thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.

3. Refrigerate (Optional for Extra Crispiness):

   • For the crispiest skin, arrange the seasoned wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and let them sit uncovered in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours. This step allows the surface moisture to evaporate, leaving the skin perfectly primed for crisping.

4. Preheat the Air Fryer:

   • Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for at least 5 minutes. Preheating is essential to ensure even cooking and to jumpstart the crisping process.

5. Arrange the Wings in the Air Fryer:

   • Lightly grease the air fryer basket with non-stick spray or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.

   • Place the wings in a single layer, ensuring there’s enough space around each piece for hot air to circulate. Overcrowding will result in steaming rather than crisping.

6. Cook the Wings:

   • Set the air fryer to 380°F and cook the wings for 25 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket every 8–10 minutes to promote even browning.

7. Final Crisping Stage:

   • After the initial cook, increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (204°C) and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes. This final step helps render any remaining fat and gives the skin a deep, crispy texture.

8. Serve:

   • Use tongs to carefully remove the wings from the air fryer and let them rest for 2–3 minutes. This brief resting period allows the juices to settle while keeping the skin crispy.

   • Serve immediately with dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or spicy sriracha mayo. Pair with celery sticks or carrot sticks for a classic presentation.

Pro Tips for Success

• Choose Quality Wings: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken wings for the best flavor and texture. Frozen wings should be fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.

• Dry Brine Alternative: For added flavor, you can season the wings with salt and leave them uncovered in the refrigerator overnight. This acts as a dry brine and enhances both flavor and crispiness.

• Batch Cooking: If your air fryer has a smaller basket, cook the wings in batches. Keep cooked wings warm in a low oven (200°F/93°C) while you finish additional batches.

Storage and Reheating:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat wings in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method restores their crispiness better than using a microwave. Air Fryer Classic Crispy Chicken Wings