Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Wings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Wings are the perfect crispy treat for any occasion! Quick to prepare and cook, they’re packed with flavor and require only a handful of ingredients. Made with simple seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, and, of course, salt and pepper, these wings are a crispy, juicy delight everyone will love. Plus, they're made in the air fryer, which means less oil and less mess than traditional frying methods.

Ingredients

• 18-20 split chicken wings (drumette and winglet)

• 3 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  (Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Add the olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to a large bowl. Mix everything together well.

2. Toss the chicken wings in the seasoning mixture until they're evenly coated on all sides.

3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 2 minutes.

4. Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a bit of space between each piece. You may need to cook in batches depending on your air fryer size.

5. Cook for 24-25 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee they're fully cooked.

6. Serve immediately and enjoy your crispy, flavorful wings!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Salt and Pepper Wings: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.

• Garlic Parmesan Wings: After cooking, toss the wings in some grated Parmesan cheese for a savory, cheesy twist.

• Lemon Pepper Wings: Sprinkle freshly ground lemon pepper on top after cooking for a tangy and aromatic variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing: Allow wings to cool and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat wings in the air fryer at 375°F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through, giving the basket a shake halfway through to ensure even reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen wings for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen wings, but they may need a few extra minutes of cooking time. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

2. Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Yes, preheating the air fryer ensures the wings cook evenly and become crispy.

3. How do I know when the wings are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the wings has reached 165°F.

4. Can I cook other types of chicken in the air fryer?

Absolutely! You can cook any type of chicken, but cooking times will vary depending on the size and cut of the chicken.

5. What should I serve with these wings?

These wings pair wonderfully with a side of crispy air fryer potatoes, raw veggies, or even a fresh salad.

6. How can I make these wings extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, make sure to pat the wings dry with a paper towel before seasoning and cook them in a single layer without overcrowding the basket.

7. Can I cook the wings in batches?

Yes, it’s recommended to cook the wings in batches if needed to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy.

8. How can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?

Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, or garlic powder based on your preferences. You can also experiment with other spices like onion powder or smoked paprika.

9. Are these wings gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free seasonings.

10. Can I make these wings ahead of time?

While it's best to enjoy these wings fresh, you can prep them earlier in the day and store them in the fridge before cooking them when you're ready.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Wings are a simple, delicious, and healthier alternative to deep-fried wings. They’re quick to make, customizable to your taste, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or just craving a savory snack, these crispy wings will surely be a hit. Plus, cooking them in the air fryer means less mess and less oil, making it a great option for a healthier treat!