Air Fryer Frozen Wings: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious

Cooking frozen chicken wings in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get delicious, crispy wings without the mess of deep frying. The air fryer method is simple, tasty, and sure to please a crowd. You can use any brand of frozen wings, and there's no need to defrost them first!

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the cooking process. It ensures that your chicken wings cook evenly and helps to achieve that sought-after crispy exterior.

To preheat your air fryer, simply turn it on and let it heat up for around 3 to 5 minutes. Most sources recommend preheating to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). However, one source suggests preheating at 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius) if you are reheating chicken wings.

While your air fryer is preheating, you can take the opportunity to toss your frozen wings with your chosen seasonings. A little oil can help the seasonings stick, although this is not necessary due to the air fryer's cooking method.

Once your air fryer is preheated, it's time to add the wings. Be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer, as proper air circulation is key to achieving evenly crispy wings. The wings should be placed in a single layer with some space between them. If your air fryer is too small to fit all the wings, simply cook them in two batches.

Oil and seasoning

While the air fryer is heating up, take your frozen wings and toss them with your chosen seasonings. You don't need oil due to the air fryer's cooking method, but a little can help the seasonings stick if you prefer. Olive oil is a good choice, but it doesn't have to be extra virgin. You can also use an olive oil cooking spray to ensure extra crispy skin.

If your wings are not pre-seasoned, air fry for 5 minutes first, to thaw. Then add oil and seasoning before air frying again.

You can season the wings with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dry rub seasoning, lemon pepper, or any other dry seasonings. You can also toss the wings in flour, then in a beaten egg, and finally in panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture. Alternatively, add a Southern touch by coating the wings with cornmeal mixed with some Cajun seasoning before air frying.

If you want to add sauce, do it with about 5 minutes left until they are done. Remove the wings from the air fryer basket, mix with the sauce, and place back in the basket.

Cook time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for frozen chicken wings in an air fryer depend on the number of wings, whether they are breaded or sauced, and the model of the air fryer.

For 12 plain frozen wings, cook at 350°F for 12 minutes. If cooking more than 12 wings, increase the cooking time to 14-16 minutes.

For 16 frozen breaded wings, cook at 400°F for 14 minutes. For sauced wings, increase the cooking time to 18 minutes.

For other types of frozen wings, preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Place the frozen wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring proper spacing for air circulation. Cook for 10 minutes to defrost, then toss with oil and seasonings. Return the wings to the air fryer and cook for another 10-12 minutes.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the model of the air fryer. To ensure even cooking and crispness, it is recommended to flip the wings halfway through the cooking process. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation.

Sauces

Chicken wings can be cooked straight from frozen in an air fryer, with no need to defrost them first. This makes them a quick and easy meal, perfect for last-minute cooks.

The cooking time will depend on the model of your air fryer, the temperature you are cooking at, and the size of the wings. As a guide, frozen wings will take around 10 minutes to defrost in the air fryer at 400°F. Then, for the first round of cooking, allow 12-15 minutes. Next, toss the wings in olive oil, and season with salt and pepper, and a dry rub if you like. For the second round of cooking, allow another 10-12 minutes, or until the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Now for the fun part: the sauce! There are many different sauces that you can use to coat your crispy, juicy wings. Here are some ideas:

• Honey Buffalo Sauce: This is a great choice if you like your wings on the sweeter side. You can make this sauce by whisking together buffalo sauce, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. You can also add some melted butter to balance out the acidity of the hot sauce, and a squeeze of lemon or lime juice will add a tangy freshness.
• BBQ Sauce: A classic choice for chicken wings, and a good option if you prefer a smokier flavor profile.
• Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: For those who like their wings with a bit of a kick, but not too much heat.
• Teriyaki Sauce: This sauce will give your wings a sticky-sweet glaze and a hint of ginger.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: For those who like their wings extra creamy and rich.

You can also experiment with different dried spices on your wings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and lemon pepper.

So, there you have it! Juicy, crispy chicken wings with a variety of sauces to choose from, all made easy in your air fryer.

Storage

Leftover chicken wings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It is recommended to store them in an airtight container. If you want to freeze the wings, place them on a baking sheet first to prevent them from freezing together. Once they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. However, it is not advisable to refreeze leftovers.

When reheating frozen, pre-cooked chicken wings in the air fryer, cook them at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. You can also reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop. If you are reheating from frozen, it is best to thaw them first. This can be done by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water.

If you are cooking frozen raw chicken wings, the cooking time will be longer than for pre-cooked wings. The internal temperature of the wings should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the specific model of your air fryer, so adjust the timing as needed. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.

Frequently asked questions