Tailgate Crispy Air-Fryer Wings

My brother-in-law brought his air fryer to our Super Bowl party three years ago, setting it up on the patio table like he was unveiling some secret weapon. Everyone gathered around, drinks in hand, watching these wings turn impossibly crispy without a drop of oil in sight. Now whenever friends come over for games, they don't ask what's on the menu—they just ask if I'm making those wings again.

Last autumn my daughter's soccer team came over hungry after a rainy tournament, and I made three batches back to back. The kitchen filled with that smoky paprika scent while 12 teenage girls hovered around the air fryer like it was magic. They disappeared faster than I could transfer them to the platter, which I'm taking as the highest compliment possible.

Ingredients

• Chicken wings: Splitting them yourself saves money, but buying them pre-split works perfectly fine too
• Kosher salt: The coarse crystals cling better to the wings and provide even seasoning
• Garlic powder: Toasting it slightly with the other spices before coating wakes up the flavor
• Smoked paprika: This gives you that wood-fired taste without actually firing up a smoker
• Onion powder: Adds a subtle savory backbone that balances the heat
• Baking powder: The secret ingredient that raises the pH and creates that incredible crispy skin
• Hot sauce: Franks RedHot is classic, but find whatever sauce makes you happy
• Unsalted butter: Melting it with hot sauce creates that perfect wing coating consistency

Instructions

Prep the wings:

Pat each wing completely dry with paper towels, then let them sit uncovered while you mix your spices

Mix the rub:

Combine all spices and baking powder in a large bowl, breaking up any clumps with your fingers

Coat the wings:

Add wings to the spice mixture and toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated in reddish brown seasoning

Preheat your air fryer:

Set it to 400°F and let it run empty for 3 minutes while you finish arranging the wings

Arrange in the basket:

Lay wings in a single uncrowded layer, leaving space between each piece for proper air circulation

Air fry to perfection:

Cook for 25 minutes total, flipping halfway through, until deeply golden and audibly crispy

Sauce if desired:

Whisk hot sauce and melted butter together, then toss cooked wings until glossy and coated

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These wings have become my go-to for whenever someone needs a pick-me-up or there's something to celebrate. My neighbor swears they saved her Super Bowl party last year when her grill died mid-game. Food does that sometimes, doesn't it? It shows up exactly when you need it.

Timing Matters Most

I've learned that every air fryer runs slightly different, so start checking your wings around 22 minutes. You want them a deep golden brown with some darker edges—that's where the best flavor lives. Undercooking leaves the skin rubbery, while overcooking dries out the meat. Trust your eyes and nose more than the timer.

The Sauce Situation

Saucing the wings right before serving keeps them crispy, but if you're transporting them somewhere, toss with sauce immediately and reheat briefly at 375°F. The sauce creates a sticky glaze that reheats beautifully. Just don't sauce them too far ahead or they'll lose their signature crunch.

Make It Your Own

This basic rub works with whatever flavor profile you're craving. Swap the cayenne for chili powder if you want milder heat, or add brown sugar for a sweet and smoky version. I've done everything from honey garlic to lemon pepper using this same method.

• Line your air fryer basket with foil for easier cleanup, but don't cover the bottom completely
• Let leftover wings cool completely before refrigerating, then reheat at 375°F for 5 minutes
• Double the spice rub and store the extra in an airtight container for next time

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Hope these wings become part of your own gatherings and create some new memories around your table.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I get the wings crispy in the air fryer?

Pat the wings dry thoroughly to remove moisture, coat them evenly with a spice rub including baking powder, and air fry at 400°F, flipping halfway for even crispiness.

→ Can I prepare the wings ahead of time?

Yes, letting coated wings rest uncovered in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before air frying enhances crispiness.

→ What sauces pair well with these wings?

Classic options include hot sauce mixed with butter, BBQ sauce, or honey-garlic sauce, served alongside blue cheese or ranch dressing.

→ Are these wings gluten-free?

Chicken wings are naturally gluten-free, but check spice blends and sauces to ensure no gluten-containing ingredients are added.

→ How do I add heat to the wings?

Incorporate cayenne pepper into the spice rub or toss cooked wings in a spicy hot sauce mixture for added heat.