I have to confess, chicken wings are my ultimate weakness—especially when they’re sweet, sticky, and just a little bit spicy. These Air Fryer Sweet Chili Wings have quickly become my go-to snack for game nights, casual get-togethers, or even when I’m just craving something bold and delicious. The best part? They’re ready in just 30 minutes and taste like something you’d get at a great sports bar (but without all the oil and grease).
I love how the air fryer turns the skin perfectly crispy while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside. The sweet chili glaze adds that irresistible balance of sweet heat—you get a little sticky sweetness up front, then a gentle kick of spice at the end. If you’ve been looking for a wing recipe that’s quick, easy, and completely addictive, you’re about to fall in love with this one.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken Wings: Fresh or thawed wings work best for this recipe. I prefer to buy whole wings and split them into flats and drumettes myself for maximum freshness, but pre-cut wings are perfectly fine if you want to save time.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is the magic ingredient that gives the wings their signature sticky-sweet flavor with just a touch of spice. Look for a Thai-style sweet chili sauce—it’s thicker and clings beautifully to the wings.
Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce adds depth and a subtle savory note that balances out the sweetness of the glaze. It also helps tenderize the chicken slightly as it cooks.
Garlic Powder: This adds a gentle, warm aroma that pairs wonderfully with the sweet chili glaze. Garlic powder distributes evenly over the wings without burning the way fresh garlic sometimes can in the air fryer.
Paprika: Paprika gives the wings a gorgeous golden color and a slightly smoky background flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Olive Oil: Just a small drizzle helps the seasoning stick to the wings and aids in crisping the skin without adding heavy grease.
Salt & Pepper: The simple essentials—seasoning your wings well from the start ensures every bite is flavorful.
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
- 1/2 cup Thai-style sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Irresistible Air Fryer Sweet Chili Wings
Step 1: Prep the Wings
Pat the wings dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the skin crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
Step 2: Season Generously
In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until every piece is coated. This ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
Step 3: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection
Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the meat is fully cooked.
Step 4: Glaze with Sweet Chili Goodness
In a clean large bowl, mix the sweet chili sauce and soy sauce. Add the hot, crispy wings and toss well until they’re fully coated in the sticky glaze.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Pile the wings onto a serving plate, sprinkle with optional garnishes like chopped green onions or sesame seeds, and serve immediately while they’re still sticky and warm.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Cooking the wings in batches if needed ensures crispy skin.
- Dry wings = crispy wings: Patting them dry before seasoning makes a huge difference.
- Adjust heat level: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the glaze if you want extra spice.
- For extra sticky wings: Toss them in sauce, then air fry for an additional 2 minutes to help the glaze set.
- Serve immediately: These wings are at their absolute best fresh from the air fryer.
FAQs
Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, but thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness.
What’s the best sweet chili sauce to use?
A Thai-style sweet chili sauce works perfectly. It’s thicker, sweeter, and clings beautifully to the wings.
Can I make these ahead of time?
They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can cook the wings ahead, refrigerate, then reheat in the air fryer for 5–6 minutes before glazing.
What can I serve with these wings?
They pair perfectly with a fresh green salad, fries, or crunchy celery and carrot sticks with ranch or blue cheese dressing.