Tailgate Crispy Air Fryer Chicken (Printable View)
Perfectly seasoned, crispy chicken wings cooked golden and juicy with an air fryer for game day or casual occasions.
# Ingredient List:
→ Chicken
01 - 2 pounds chicken wings, split and tips removed
→ Spice Rub
02 - 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - ½ teaspoon onion powder
06 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
07 - ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
08 - 1 tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder
→ Buffalo Sauce
09 - ¼ cup hot sauce
10 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
# How to Prepare:
01 - Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for maximum crispiness.
02 - Combine kosher salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and baking powder in a large mixing bowl.
03 - Add the wings to the spice mixture and toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated with the rub.
04 - Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes before cooking.
05 - Place wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Air fry at 400°F for 25 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking time.
06 - While wings cook, whisk together hot sauce and melted unsalted butter in a bowl until fully combined.
07 - Transfer cooked wings to the sauce bowl and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately with celery sticks and your choice of dipping sauce.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- The baking powder trick creates restaurant-style crispiness without any deep frying mess
- These wings reheat beautifully so you can make them ahead and still impress guests
02 -
- Damp wings will steam instead of crisp, so do not rush the drying step
- Overcrowding the basket defeats the air fryer purpose, so cook in batches rather than piling them high
03 -
- Line the drip tray with foil for effortless cleanup afterward
- Let wings rest for five minutes before saucing so the crispiness sets