Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Wings

Ready in about 34 minutes.

Updated 7 September 2026

These are the crispiest air fryer wings you will make at home - no deep-frying, no fuss. The secret is drying the wings well and a pinch of baking powder for shatteringly crisp skin.

Ingredients

  • 1 kg chicken wings, split
  • 1 tsp baking powder (not baking soda)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Method

  1. 1Pat the wings completely dry with kitchen paper - this is the key to crispiness.
  2. 2Toss with the baking powder, oil, salt, paprika, garlic powder and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. 3Preheat the air fryer to 200°C / 400°F for 3 minutes.
  4. 4Arrange the wings in a single layer, skin-side up, without overlapping.
  5. 5Air fry for 22-25 minutes, shaking the basket every 8 minutes.
  6. 6Check they reach 74°C / 165°F, then toss in your favourite sauce and serve.

Tips for the best results

  • Cook in batches rather than crowding the basket.
  • For saucy wings, toss after cooking so the skin stays crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature and time for air fryer crispy chicken wings?+

Cook at 200°C / 400°F for 22-25 min, shake every 8 min.

Can I use frozen wings?+

Yes - cook from frozen at 190°C / 375°F for 24-30 minutes, then finish at 200°C / 400°F to crisp.

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