Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Crispy, Spicy, and Irresistibly Good

Air fryer buffalo wings offer the perfect combination of crispy skin, juicy meat, and bold spicy flavor—all without the hassle of deep frying. These wings are quick to prepare, easy to cook, and perfect for game day, parties, or a simple weeknight indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative – No deep frying means significantly less oil and fewer calories.
• Crispy Perfection – The air fryer creates a crispy texture that rivals traditional fried wings.
• Quick & Easy – Cooks in about 20 minutes with minimal prep.
• Versatile – Easily customize the spice level or use different sauces.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (helps crisp the skin)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 cup buffalo sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Wings

• Pat the wings dry thoroughly with paper towels. This helps achieve extra crispiness.
• In a large bowl, toss the wings with baking powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

2. Preheat the Air Fryer

• Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes.

3. Air Fry the Wings

• Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
• Cook at 380°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Increase the temperature to 400°F (204°C) and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.

4. Toss in Buffalo Sauce

• While the wings cook, mix the buffalo sauce with melted butter in a bowl.
• Once cooked, toss the wings in the sauce until evenly coated.

5. Serve Immediately

• Plate the wings and serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Variations

• Honey Buffalo Wings – Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the sauce for a sweet-heat balance.
• Garlic Parmesan Wings – Toss wings in melted butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese instead of buffalo sauce.
• BBQ Buffalo Wings – Mix buffalo sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy twist.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
• Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating:
  • Air Fryer: 375°F for 5–7 minutes.
  • Oven: 375°F for 10 minutes.
  • Microwave: Not recommended, as it makes the wings soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my air fryer wings extra crispy?

Dry the wings thoroughly before seasoning, use baking powder, and increase the temperature at the end of cooking.

Can I use frozen wings?

Yes! Cook at 400°F for 25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. No need to thaw, but pat dry if possible.

Do I need to use baking powder?

Baking powder helps the skin crisp up but can be omitted. Without it, the wings may be slightly less crispy.

What’s the best buffalo sauce to use?

Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice, but any buffalo sauce works. Adjust the spice level to your preference.

Can I make these wings without an air fryer?

Yes! Bake at 425°F for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What can I serve with buffalo wings?

Celery, carrots, blue cheese or ranch dressing, fries, coleslaw, or even mac and cheese.

How do I prevent my air fryer from smoking?

Add a little water or a slice of bread to the bottom of the air fryer to catch dripping fat.

Can I double the batch?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding, ensuring even crispiness.

How can I make these wings less spicy?

Use mild buffalo sauce or mix in a little honey or BBQ sauce.

What’s the difference between drumettes and flats?

Drumettes are meatier and shaped like mini drumsticks, while flats have more skin and two small bones.

Conclusion

Air fryer buffalo wings are a game-changer—crispy, flavorful, and effortless. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or just craving a spicy treat, this recipe delivers the perfect wing experience every time. Try different sauce variations, pair them with your favorite dips, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home!

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