Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
If using frozen wings, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help them crisp up during cooking. If you want extra crispy wings, leave the skin slightly exposed by trimming off any excess fat.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Wings
Place the wings in a large bowl. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil or lightly spray with cooking spray. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the wings thoroughly to coat them evenly with the seasonings. The oil helps the wings become crispy while the seasoning adds flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps ensure the wings cook evenly and gives them a crispier exterior.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken Wings
Place the seasoned wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook them in batches if your air fryer is small. Don’t overcrowd the wings as this can prevent them from getting crispy.
Air fry the wings at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking. For extra crispy wings, you can increase the cooking time by an additional 5 minutes or cook them at 400°F (200°C) for the final 5 minutes. Shake the basket or use tongs to flip the wings to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
Step 5: Make the Buffalo Sauce
While the wings are cooking, you can prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 tablespoon white vinegar (optional), 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat). Heat the sauce over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warm and well combined. Remove from heat and set aside
Step 6: Coat the Wings in Buffalo Sauce
Once the wings are crispy and golden brown, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm buffalo sauce over the wings and toss to coat them evenly. Be generous with the sauce for a bold, spicy flavor. You can add more sauce depending on how saucy you like your wings
Step 7: Serve
Serve your Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Wings hot with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. The coolness of the dressing balances out the spiciness of the buffalo sauce, creating the perfect combination.combination.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Buffalo Wings:
- Use Fresh Chicken Wings: While frozen wings are convenient, fresh wings tend to cook better and get crispier in the air fryer.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For crispy wings, it’s essential to give them enough space in the air fryer basket. If needed, cook in batches.
- Adjust the Heat Level: The buffalo sauce can be customized to your taste. Add more cayenne pepper for a spicier kick or use a milder wing sauce if you prefer less heat.
- Crispier Wings: If you want extra crispy skin, you can lightly spray the wings with cooking spray before air frying, or increase the cooking time by a few minutes.
- Double Coat for Extra Flavor: For an even bolder flavor, consider tossing the wings in a second coat of buffalo sauce just before serving.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storing Leftovers: If you have leftover wings, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the wings in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to keep them crispy. You can also microwave them, but they won’t stay as crispy.
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Wings are not only easy to make butalso healthier than traditional deep-fried wings. With the air fryer, you get all the crispiness you love without the added oil. Whether you’re serving them for a party, watching the big game, or just enjoying a snack, these wings will satisfy your craving for something hot, tangy, and full of flavor. Enjoy your crispy, spicy wings with your favorite dipping sauces for a perfect treat!