There’s something irresistible about perfectly crispy chicken wings—especially when they’re packed with flavor and cooked to golden perfection without the mess of deep frying. As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I can confidently say that air fryer wings are a game-changer. They come out juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and coated in a delicious dry rub that makes them impossible to resist.
What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is. No need for heavy breading or excessive oil—just a well-balanced dry rub and the magic of the air fryer. Whether you’re prepping for game day, a family dinner, or just craving a delicious snack, these wings will hit the spot every time.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken wings: The star of the dish! You can use whole wings (separated into drumettes and flats) or buy them pre-cut. Fresh wings yield the best texture, but thawed frozen wings work too—just pat them dry thoroughly.
Baking powder: This is the secret to ultra-crispy skin. A light dusting helps draw out moisture, ensuring the wings get that perfect crunch without frying.
Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dry rub. I prefer kosher salt for its clean taste, but table salt works fine—just use a bit less.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and vibrant color to the wings. Sweet or smoked paprika both work well, depending on your preference.
Garlic powder: Brings a rich, savory depth to the rub. If you love garlic, you can even add a little extra for a stronger kick.
Onion powder: Complements the garlic powder with a slightly sweet, earthy flavor that rounds out the seasoning blend.
Black pepper: A must for a little heat and balance. Freshly ground pepper gives the best flavor.
Cayenne pepper (optional): If you like a bit of spice, this adds a nice kick. Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs chicken wings (drumettes and flats separated)
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings with Dry Rub
Step 1: Prep the Wings
Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial—any excess moisture will prevent them from getting crispy.
Step 2: Apply the Dry Rub
In a large bowl, mix the baking powder, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Toss the wings in the mixture until evenly coated.
Step 3: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Place the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them for proper air circulation. Cook in batches if needed.
Step 4: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Cook at 380°F (190°C) for 22-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, increase the heat to 400°F (200°C) for the last 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Let the wings rest for a few minutes before serving. They’re delicious on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Dry the wings well—The less moisture, the crispier the skin.
- Don’t skip the baking powder—It’s the key to that restaurant-style crunch.
- Avoid overcrowding—Cook in batches if necessary for even crispiness.
- Adjust seasoning—Taste the dry rub before applying and tweak to your liking.
- Double the batch—These wings disappear fast, so make extra!
FAQs
Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, but thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.
Do I need to flip the wings?
Yes, flipping ensures even crispiness on both sides.
Can I make these in the oven?
Absolutely! Bake at 425°F (220°C) on a wire rack for about 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
What dipping sauces go well with these wings?
Classic choices include ranch, blue cheese, BBQ sauce, or even a spicy buffalo dip.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful wings—they’re sure to be a hit!