Make perfectly crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Wings with this easy recipe. Enjoy bold flavors and a quick cooking method that’s perfect for any snack time.
Why You’ll Love It
If you love a good snack that’s packed with flavor but easy to make, you’ll adore these Air Fryer Buffalo Wings. They’re crispy without the mess of deep-frying and get coated in the classic spicy buffalo sauce that everyone craves. Perfect for game days, parties, or a quick snack, this recipe delivers that bold tangy heat with less oil and fuss. Plus, the air fryer cooks the wings faster than traditional methods, giving you more time to enjoy your food and less time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for serving
You can easily substitute the hot sauce with a milder sauce or use vegan butter for a dairy-free version. If gluten is a concern, confirm your hot sauce is gluten-free.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 5 minutes.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the wings in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure crispiness.
- Cook the wings for 25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning.
- While the wings cook, whisk together the hot sauce and melted butter in a bowl.
- When the wings are crisp and fully cooked, toss them in the buffalo sauce until coated evenly.
- Serve hot with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
Expert Tips
For extra crispiness, pat the wings dry really well before seasoning. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed. Adjust sauce heat by adding honey or brown sugar for a touch of sweetness. To check doneness, the internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C).
Storage
Keep leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place wings in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for best results.
Variations
- Vegan: Try cauliflower florets seasoned and air fried with buffalo sauce for a plant-based twist.
- Gluten-Free: Make sure to use gluten-free hot sauce and check all ingredients.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine.
- Mild Sauce: Mix hot sauce with a bit of honey or melted butter to reduce heat.
FAQ
- Can I cook frozen wings in the air fryer? Yes, but add a few minutes to the cook time and check for doneness.
- Are air fryer buffalo wings healthy? They use less oil than traditional frying, making them a lighter option without losing flavor.
- How can I make Air Fryer Buffalo Wings less spicy? Mix some honey or ranch dressing into the sauce to tone down the heat.
- What dipping sauces go best with these wings? Classic blue cheese, ranch, or even a simple garlic aioli complement these wings well.
- What size air fryer works for this recipe? A 5-6 quart air fryer is ideal for cooking 2 lbs of wings comfortably.
Call to Action
Enjoyed making these Air Fryer Buffalo Wings? Please leave a comment below with your tips, rate the recipe, and don’t forget to save it for your next snack craving. Share the spicy goodness with friends and family, and explore more snack ideas like Easy Weeknight Dinners or Best Party Appetizers. For more tips on air fryer cooking, check out Food Network.
