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How to Cook Perfectly Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Cooking chicken wings in an air fryer is a game-changer, offering a health-conscious alternative to deep frying without compromising on that perfect crispy texture. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering, enjoying a casual midweek dinner, or simply indulging in some tasty snacks, mastering air fryer chicken wings will undoubtedly impress. Here’s a detailed guide on how to achieve perfect, crispy chicken wings every time.

Ingredients

To make approximately 2 servings of crispy air fryer chicken wings, you will need:

• 500g chicken wings (about 8 to 10 wings)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (not bicarbonate of soda)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• Your choice of hot sauce or BBQ sauce (for tossing post-cooking)

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Large mixing bowl
• Baking paper (optional for easy clean-up)
• Measuring spoons
• Tongs

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken Wings

Begin by thoroughly cleaning the chicken wings under cold running water. Pat them dry using paper towels—removing excess moisture is vital for achieving crispy results. Wet wings will steam during cooking, leading to subpar texture.

2. Season the Wings

In a large mixing bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, black pepper, and any optional seasonings you fancy. Baking powder plays a crucial role in creating that coveted crispy exterior while the salt and spices enhance the flavour.

Toss the chicken wings in the seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated. Ensure every wing is well covered for maximum flavour.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer at 200°C (392°F) for approximately 5 minutes. Preheating is important as it helps to kick-start the cooking process and promotes that crispiness you’re after.

4. Arrange the Wings

Once preheated, arrange the chicken wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this can inhibit airflow and lead to inconsistent cooking. If necessary, cook in batches.

5. Cooking Time

Cook the chicken wings at 200°C (392°F) for 25 to 30 minutes. It’s advisable to shake the basket or turn the wings halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping. Keep an eye on the wings as cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model and the size of the wings.

6. Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken wings has reached 75°C (165°F). This is essential for ensuring the wings are cooked through.

7. Toss in Sauce

If you’re a fan of sauced wings, transfer the cooked wings to a large bowl and toss them in your choice of sauce, such as hot sauce, BBQ sauce, or a homemade glaze. For those who prefer their wings dry, you can skip this step.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Your perfectly crispy air fryer chicken wings are ready to be served! Pair them with your favourite dipping sauces, fresh vegetables, or a side of fries. They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or family meal.

Tips for Extra Crispy Wings

• Patience is Key: Check for doneness and crispiness before removing them from the air fryer. If they’re not quite there, continue cooking in increments of 5 minutes.
• Experiment with Flavours: Don’t hesitate to experiment with seasoning blends or marinades before cooking. Teriyaki, Cajun, or lemon pepper can offer delightful variations.
• Use Cornstarch Instead of Baking Powder: If you prefer, cornstarch can offer a similar crispiness and texture to your wings, providing an alternative to baking powder.

Conclusion

Cooking chicken wings in an air fryer is not only quick and easy but also results in a healthier dish without sacrificing that crispy, golden exterior. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of air fryer chicken wings. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and get ready to enjoy a bite of crispy delight!

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