Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 8 | Calories per Serving: 486
These air fryer chicken wings are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a smoky, slightly sweet, spicy dry rub. No sauce needed!
INGREDIENTS
CHICKEN WINGS
4 lbs chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
1 tbsp baking powder (optional, for extra crispy skin)
SEASONINGS
1/2 tbsp ancho chile powder
1/2 tbsp smoked paprika
1/2 tbsp onion powder
1 tsp kosher salt
3/4 tbsp light brown sugar, packed
3/ tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp regular paprika
3/4 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp dried mustard powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp dried ground thyme
DIRECTIONS
STEP 1 - Prepare the Chicken Wings
Pat the chicken wings thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This is key to achieving crispy skin in the air fryer! Place the wings in a large mixing bowl.
STEP 2 - Make the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, combine the ancho chile powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, kosher salt, brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, mustard powder, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. Mix until evenly combined, breaking up any clumps of brown sugar.
STEP 3 - Season the Wings
Drizzle the chicken wings with olive oil or avocado oil and toss to coat evenly. If using baking powder, sprinkle it over the wings and toss again. Add the dry rub seasoning and mix thoroughly until every wing is evenly coated.
STEP 4 - Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F for approximately 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil if needed to prevent sticking.
STEP 4 - Air Fry the Wings
Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each wing for proper air circulation. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you'll likely need to cook the wings in multiple batches. Air fry at 380°F for 20 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through.
STEP 5 - Crisp the Wings
Increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F and cook for an additional 5–10 minutes, flipping once if needed, until the wings are golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F, although wings are often more tender around 175–185°F.
STEP 6 - Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the wings from the air fryer and allow them to rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. Enjoy them on their own or pair with ranch, blue cheese dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce!NuTrition Facts (Per Serving)
300 calories | 25g protein | 4g carbs | 21g fat | 1g fiber