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These perfect Air Fryer Chicken Wings are the best way to get crispy, flavorful wings without deep frying. Tossed in a bold dry rub made with brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, and a hint of cinnamon, these wings are bursting with smoky-sweet flavor. Perfect for game day, parties, or weeknight dinners.
About This Recipe
Air Fryer Chicken Wings are one of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy crispy chicken wings at home—no deep fryer required. Ready in half the time it takes to bake them in the oven, these wings turn out perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside every single time.
This version is coated in a flavorful homemade dry rub made with brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, and a touch of cayenne for optional heat. Use your favorite seasoning blend or toss the wings in homemade buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, or try these crispy garlic parmesan wings for a tasty twist.
I used my Cosori Air Fryer and can’t recommend it enough. If you’re on the hunt for a reliable air fryer, it’s a solid choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
At 370°F, cook for 22–25 minutes, flipping once or twice during cooking. At 400°F, cook the wings for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. In either case, always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
Pat the wings completely dry before seasoning. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, extra crispy skin, increase the air fryer temperature to 400 degrees F in the last 2 minutes of cooking (if you’re cooking yours at a lower temperature).
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them first and pat them dry for optimal crispiness. If cooking from frozen, increase the cook time by 5–7 minutes and flip more frequently to ensure even cooking.
Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the rack. Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes.
Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2½ pounds chicken wings and drumettes
- 2 tablespoon dry rub (recipe below)
For the dry rub
- 3 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon cayenne powder, (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat a 3-quart or larger air fryer to 370°F and spray the basket with non-stick cooking spray.
- Pat the wings dry with paper towels (dry skin equals crispy skin) and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of the prepared dry rub, or season with your seasoning mixture of choice.
- Place the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don't touch (you will probably need to cook them in two batches).
- Cook the wings for 10 minutes then remove the basket and carefully flip each chicken wing over. Cook for an additional 8 minutes. Remove the basket once more flip the chicken wings again. Increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F and cook for an additional 2-4 minutes.
- Use a digital meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature of the chicken wings registers 165°F. Remove the chicken wings to a clean plate and repeat as needed.
Notes
- Keep leftovers stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat in an air fryer preheated to 370°F for 2-4 minutes.
- I used my Cosori Air Fryer to make this recipe.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
How to Serve
These crispy air fryer chicken wings are perfect for game day, parties, or casual weeknight dinners. Serve them with classic sides like celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Pair them with sweet potato fries, fried okra, or mac and cheese for a Southern-inspired spread. You can also dip the wings in sauces like sweet and tangy mumbo sauce, creamy comeback sauce, or this Japanese BBQ sauce for even more variety. For a lighter meal, serve the wings over a crisp green house salad or alongside coleslaw and cornbread. No matter how you serve them, they’re always a hit.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage: Let the wings cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 3–5 minutes to regain crispiness. You can also reheat them in a preheated 400°F oven for 3-5 minutes. And if you’re in a hurry, microwave until heated through.
Freezing: Place cooled wings on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in the air fryer at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Craving more easy air fryer chicken recipes? Try my perfect Air Fryer Chicken Breasts, Air Fryer Whole Chicken, and juiciest Air Fryer Chicken Legs. They’re all quick, delicious, and perfect for weeknight meals.
