I don’t know about you, but I’m always on the lookout for quick and delicious recipes that don’t compromise on flavor or texture. That’s why this 35-minute crispy air fryer honey garlic chicken wings recipe has quickly become one of my favorites. The combination of sweet honey and savory garlic, paired with the irresistible crispiness of air-fried wings, hits all the right spots without the need for deep frying or hours in the kitchen.
Plus, air frying wings means less mess, less oil, and a healthier twist on a classic crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re prepping for a game day, a casual dinner, or just craving some finger-licking goodness, this recipe delivers every time. I love how simple the process is and how fast you get to enjoy those golden, sticky, and crispy wings straight from the air fryer.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken Wings: The star of the dish! Use fresh or thawed chicken wings for the best results. They provide that perfect size for crispy skin and tender meat inside.
Honey: This natural sweetener balances the savory garlic flavor with a luscious, sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer, giving wings that signature golden sheen.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a punch of robust flavor that complements the sweetness of honey. Minced or finely grated garlic works best for even distribution in the sauce.
Soy Sauce: Adds a salty, umami depth to the glaze, enhancing the overall flavor profile while helping to balance the sweetness of honey.
Olive Oil: A small amount helps the wings crisp up in the air fryer and adds a subtle richness to the wings.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and add just the right amount of seasoning.
Cornstarch: Used to coat the wings lightly before air frying, it’s the secret ingredient that helps achieve that irresistible crispy crust.
Ingredients List
- 2 pounds chicken wings, fresh or thawed
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
How to Make 35-Minute Crispy Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Wings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Wings
Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because removing moisture helps the wings crisp up perfectly. Then, season the wings evenly with salt and pepper. Toss the wings in cornstarch until they are lightly coated. This coating is what gives the wings that fantastic crispy texture once cooked in the air fryer.
Step 2: Air Fry the Wings
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the coated wings in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Cook the wings for 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning on all sides.
Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
While the wings are air frying, mix the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil in a small bowl. Stir well until everything is combined into a smooth, glossy sauce.
Step 4: Toss Wings in Sauce
Once the wings are cooked and crispy, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the wings and toss thoroughly to coat every piece with that delicious sticky glaze.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your crispy, honey garlic wings immediately while they’re hot and fresh. They go great with celery sticks, ranch dip, or even a side of crunchy fries.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Dry the wings well before coating with cornstarch; moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket — cook in batches if necessary to maintain airflow and ensure even crisping.
- Flip the wings halfway through cooking for uniform browning.
- Adjust the amount of honey and garlic according to your taste preferences — more honey for sweetness, more garlic for a punch.
- Let the wings rest for a few minutes after tossing in sauce; this helps the glaze set and stick better.
- Use a silicone or silicone-lined spatula to toss the wings gently without breaking the crispy crust.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
A: Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Q: Can I make this recipe without cornstarch?
A: You can skip it, but cornstarch is key for that crispy texture. You might get less crunch without it.
Q: How do I store leftover wings?
A: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Q: Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
A: Absolutely! Just cook the wings in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.
Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: No, it’s more on the sweet and savory side. You can add a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce if you want some heat.