Air Fryer Chicken Wings: Cooking Time Perfection

Chicken wings are a popular snack, but frying them can be messy and time-consuming. Air fryers offer a healthier, quicker, and easier alternative to deep-frying, producing crispy wings without the splattering of hot oil.

The cooking time for chicken wings in an air fryer varies depending on the weight and size of the wings, but generally, they take between 16 to 25 minutes to cook. It is recommended to cook them in a single layer, with space between each wing to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Some recipes suggest increasing the temperature during the cooking process, starting at a lower temperature to render the fat and skin and then increasing the heat to ensure the wings are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Before cooking, the wings should be patted dry and seasoned generously with salt. Some recipes also suggest marinating the wings with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and other seasonings.

Air fryer chicken wings can be served as is or tossed in a variety of sauces, such as buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.

With their crispy texture and juicy flavour, air fryer chicken wings are a convenient and tasty treat that can be made in a fraction of the time compared to traditional frying methods.

How to prep the chicken wings

Preparing chicken wings for the air fryer is simple and only takes a few minutes. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Defrost the Chicken Wings

If your chicken wings are frozen, make sure to defrost them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Step 2: Separate the Wings

If the wings are full, separate them into drums and flats.

Step 3: Dry the Wings

Pat the chicken wings dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This step is important to ensure the wings get crispy.

Step 4: Season the Wings

Place the wings into a bowl and add oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the wings to ensure they are evenly coated. You can also add other seasonings of your choice, such as white pepper or baking powder, or use your favourite seasoning blend.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes.

Step 6: Arrange the Wings in the Air Fryer

Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.

Step 7: Cook the Wings

Cook the wings at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes. Then, carefully flip them over and cook for an additional 8-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. The total cooking time may vary depending on the size of your wings.

Your chicken wings are now ready to be served and enjoyed! You can serve them as is or with your favourite dips and sides.

How to season the chicken wings

There are many ways to season chicken wings before air frying them. Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your wings are full of flavour.

Firstly, ensure your wings are patted dry with a paper towel. This will help them to crisp up.

Secondly, place the wings in a bowl and add oil and your chosen seasonings. Toss the wings to ensure they are evenly coated.

Some seasoning blends you could try include:

• Salt and white pepper
• Salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and pepper
• Salt, garlic salt, and lemon pepper
• Salt, rosemary, oregano, and ground mustard
• Salt, baking powder, and white pepper

How long to cook the chicken wings

Air fryer chicken wings are a healthier way to prepare wings without deep-frying or a long oven cook time. They're crisp on the outside and perfectly tender on the inside.

Two pounds of chicken wings take 23-24 minutes to cook in a large air fryer. Start by cooking them at 360ºF to render the fat and skin, then finish the wings at 390ºF to ensure they’re tender on the inside and crispy and sizzling on the outside.

How to cook chicken wings in an air fryer

First, pat the chicken wings dry. Then, place the wings into a bowl and add oil, seasoning, and pepper to taste. Place the wings in the air fryer so they are not touching. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip the wings and cook for another 8-12 minutes at the same temperature.

Tips for making crispy chicken wings

• Pat the chicken wings dry before marinating them. This will remove any excess moisture and help them get nice and crispy.
• Line up the chicken wings standing upright along the sides of the air fryer. This is a good trick to fit more wings in the air fryer basket without affecting how they’re cooked.
• Increase the temperature of the chicken wings during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.

How to store and reheat leftover chicken wings

You can store any leftover chicken wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in an air fryer at 360°F for 4 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.

How to store and reheat leftovers

Storing Leftovers

If you want to eat your chicken wings the next day or later in the week, the best place to store them is in an airtight container or bag in the refrigerator, where they will keep for 3-5 days. Alternatively, you can store them in the freezer, where they will keep for 3 months in a regular freezer and up to a year in a deep freezer.

Reheating in an Air Fryer

The air fryer is a great method for reheating chicken wings. It is quick and easy to use, keeps the skin crisp, and prevents overcooking. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (177°C). Remove the wings from the refrigerator and let them warm up while the air fryer preheats. Line the air fryer basket with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place one layer of chicken wings on the lined basket and cook for 2-5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Spritz the wings with cooking spray or oil if needed.

Reheating in an Oven

If you don't have an air fryer, you can reheat chicken wings in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Remove the wings from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature for about 15 minutes. Spray a sheet pan with cooking spray and arrange the wings in a single layer, about an inch apart. Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Reheating in a Microwave

Place the chicken wings on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes. Do not overheat, as this will dry out the wings.

Reheating in a Frying Pan

Add a tablespoon of oil to a heavy cast-iron skillet and fry the wings. If the wings are not warm in the center, you can place them in the oven to finish them off at 350°F (177°C) for 5 minutes or less.

What sauces to serve with the chicken wings

Chicken wings are a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sauces. Here are some options to serve with your air-fried chicken wings:

Classic dips and dressings:

• Blue cheese dressing
• Ranch dressing
• Buffalo sauce
• BBQ sauce

Creative dips:

• Cilantro lime dip
• Chunky blue cheese
• Jalapeno ranch

Sides:

• Corn on the cob
• French fries or tater tots
• Mac and cheese
• Wedge salad
• Sweet potato fries
• Carrots and celery

Frequently asked questions