I have a deep love for chicken wings. They’re that one comfort food I can enjoy at game nights, backyard hangouts, or even as a casual weeknight dinner. And when they’re coated in Old Bay seasoning and cooked to golden, crispy perfection in the air fryer, they become something I crave over and over again. What I love most about this recipe is that it takes just 30 minutes—so I can have a plate of delicious, finger-licking wings faster than I could order delivery.
The air fryer works its magic by giving the wings an irresistible crunch without drowning them in oil. The Old Bay seasoning brings that savory, slightly peppery, and herby flavor that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken inside. Whether you serve them with ranch, blue cheese dressing, or just a wedge of lemon, these wings always hit the spot.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken wings: Fresh chicken wings give you the juiciest results, but frozen ones work just fine as long as you thaw them completely. I like splitting the wings into drumettes and flats for even cooking and easy eating.
Old Bay seasoning: This iconic spice blend has a unique combination of celery salt, paprika, black pepper, and other aromatic spices. It’s what gives the wings their bold, savory flavor with just a hint of heat.
Baking powder: This is the secret to extra-crispy skin. It helps draw out moisture while the wings cook, giving that light, crackly crunch without deep frying.
Olive oil: A small drizzle helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and promotes that gorgeous golden-brown color during air frying.
Salt: Even though Old Bay has salt, I like adding just a pinch to balance the flavors and enhance the chicken’s natural taste.
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
- 1 ½ tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Old Bay Chicken Wings in 30 Minutes
Step 1: Prep the chicken wings
Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. This is key for getting that crispy skin. If the wings are damp, they’ll steam instead of crisp in the air fryer.
Step 2: Season the wings
In a large bowl, combine the wings with olive oil, baking powder, Old Bay seasoning, and salt. Toss well until every piece is evenly coated.
Step 3: Arrange in the air fryer basket
Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each one so the hot air can circulate.
Step 4: Air fry to perfection
Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes. Flip the wings over and cook for another 10–12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, extra Old Bay seasoning if you like it bolder, and some fresh celery sticks.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Dry your wings well—moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if needed for best air circulation.
- Use baking powder, not baking soda—baking soda will give an unpleasant taste.
- Adjust seasoning to taste—add more Old Bay for a stronger kick or reduce for milder flavor.
- Flip halfway through for even browning on both sides.
- Serve immediately—they’re crispiest when fresh out of the air fryer.
FAQs
Can I use frozen wings?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.
Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
Preheating isn’t always necessary, but it can help the wings start crisping right away.
Can I bake these in the oven instead?
Absolutely! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Is Old Bay seasoning spicy?
Not overly—it has more of a savory, peppery warmth than real heat. You can always add cayenne if you want spicier wings.