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Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Wings

A close-up pile of sticky, glazed Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Wings on a white plate.

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Make crispy, flavorful BBQ chicken wings using your air fryer. This recipe provides simple steps for perfect texture and great sauce application.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs chicken wings (flats and drumettes)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels. This step is key for crispiness.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the dry wings with baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 5 minutes.
  4. Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.
  5. Air fry for 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  6. Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 4 to 6 minutes, until the skin is very crisp.
  7. Remove the wings from the air fryer and place them in a clean bowl.
  8. Pour about 3/4 cup of the BBQ sauce over the wings and toss to coat them well.
  9. Return the sauced wings to the air fryer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to set the sauce.
  10. Serve immediately with the remaining sauce on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • Baking powder helps draw moisture from the skin, resulting in a crispier exterior without deep frying.
  • For the best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed to allow air circulation.
  • If using a store-bought BBQ sauce, choose one that is thick. Thin sauces may run off before they can set.
  • Celery sticks and blue cheese dressing make good side dishes for these wings.

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