There’s something magical about biting into a chicken wing with that irresistible crunch—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor. As someone who’s experimented with countless wing recipes, I can confidently say that air fryer baking soda chicken wings are a game-changer. The baking soda trick (a method borrowed from professional kitchens) helps achieve that ultra-crispy texture without deep-frying, and the air fryer makes the process quick and mess-free.
I first tried this method after reading about how baking soda alters the pH of the chicken skin, promoting better browning and crispiness. Skeptical at first, I was blown away by the results—golden, crackly wings that rivaled any restaurant’s. Now, it’s my go-to method when I want wings that are crispy, flavorful, and healthier than traditional fried versions. Let me walk you through how to make these perfectly crispy wings at home!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken wings: The star of the dish! I prefer using whole wings (drumettes and flats) for variety, but you can use pre-cut pieces if that’s what you have. Fresh wings work best, but thawed frozen wings will also do the trick.
Baking soda: This is the secret ingredient for ultra-crispy skin. A small amount helps break down the proteins in the skin, allowing it to dry out and crisp up beautifully in the air fryer. Don’t worry—you won’t taste it in the final dish!
Cornstarch: Combined with baking soda, cornstarch adds an extra layer of crunch. It also helps absorb excess moisture, ensuring the wings get that perfect golden exterior.
Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika): A simple but flavorful blend that enhances the natural taste of the chicken. Feel free to adjust the spices to your preference—smoked paprika or cayenne can add a nice kick!
Oil (optional): A light spray of oil (like avocado or olive oil) can help with browning, but it’s not strictly necessary since the air fryer already circulates hot air for crispiness.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb (450g) chicken wings (whole or split)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Cooking spray or 1 tsp oil (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Baking Soda Chicken Wings
Step 1: Prep the Chicken Wings
Pat the wings completely dry with paper towels—this is crucial for crispiness! If using whole wings, separate them into drumettes and flats with a sharp knife for even cooking.
Step 2: Coat with Baking Soda Mixture
In a bowl, mix baking soda, cornstarch, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss the wings in this mixture until evenly coated. Let them sit for 10 minutes (or up to an hour in the fridge) to allow the baking soda to work its magic.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking and better crispiness from the start.
Step 4: Arrange Wings in the Air Fryer
Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them for proper air circulation. Lightly spray with oil if desired for extra browning.
Step 5: Cook Until Crispy
Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are deep golden brown and crispy. If needed, cook an additional 2-3 minutes for extra crunch.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the wings rest for a minute before serving. Toss them in your favorite sauce (buffalo, BBQ, or honey garlic) or enjoy them as-is for maximum crispiness!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Dry the wings thoroughly—any excess moisture will steam instead of crisp.
- Don’t skip the resting time after coating—this helps the baking soda work on the skin.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer to ensure even crispiness.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne or onion powder to the seasoning mix.
- Serve immediately—wings are crispiest right out of the air fryer!
FAQs
Can I use baking powder instead of baking soda?
Yes! Baking powder (aluminum-free) can also help with crispiness, but adjust the amount (use 2 tsp instead of 1 tsp baking soda).
Why are my wings not crispy?
This usually happens if the wings aren’t dry before coating or if the air fryer is overcrowded. Make sure to pat them dry and cook in batches if needed.
Can I make these wings ahead of time?
They’re best fresh, but you can reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to regain crispiness.
Do I have to use cornstarch?
No, but it helps with texture. You can omit it and just use baking soda if needed.
What sauces go well with these wings?
Classic buffalo, teriyaki, garlic parmesan, or even a simple sprinkle of lemon pepper work great!
Enjoy your ultra-crispy wings—they’re sure to be a hit! 🍗🔥