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Crispy Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Wings

crispy air fryer bbq chicken wings - featured image

Golden, crackly-skinned chicken wings glazed in sticky, smoky BBQ sauce, cooked in an air fryer for ultimate crunch without frying or grilling.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free, not baking soda)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (about 120 ml), your favorite brand or homemade

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove as much moisture as possible.
  2. In a large bowl, combine baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika if using. Toss the wings until evenly coated.
  3. Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, skin side up, leaving space between each piece to avoid overcrowding.
  4. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes, then flip the wings and cook for another 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Transfer wings to a clean bowl and toss with about 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, coating gently without soaking.
  6. Optional: Return the sauced wings to the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for an extra sticky, caramelized finish.
  7. Serve immediately while warm for the best crunch and flavor.

Notes

Pat wings dry thoroughly before seasoning to ensure crispiness. Use aluminum-free baking powder to avoid off-flavors. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to prevent steaming. Toss wings with BBQ sauce after cooking to keep skin crispy. Reheat leftovers in air fryer at 375°F for 4-5 minutes to regain crispiness. For extra crisp, air fry sauced wings for 2-3 minutes more.

Nutrition

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