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How to Make Super Crispy Air Fryer Wings

If you’re looking for a delicious, healthier way to enjoy chicken wings, then an air fryer is your best friend. Air frying not only reduces the amount of oil needed but also produces wonderfully crispy wings that rival those fried in a traditional deep fryer. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make super crispy air fryer wings that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 kg chicken wings
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (not baking soda)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• Your favourite wing sauce (hot sauce, BBQ, or a mix)

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Large mixing bowl
• Paper towels
• Tongs
• Cooking spray (optional)

Preparation

Step 1: Dry the Wings

The key to getting super crispy wings is to ensure they are as dry as possible. Pat the chicken wings with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial as moisture will prevent them from crisping up properly.

Step 2: Season the Wings

In a large mixing bowl, combine the baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. The baking powder is the secret ingredient that helps achieve that delicious crunch.

Add the chicken wings to the bowl and ensure each wing is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. Transfer the wings to a wire rack or a plate and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This resting period helps the seasoning to adhere better and promotes crispiness during cooking.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that the wings start cooking immediately when placed inside, sealing in the juices and allowing the skin to crisp up beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Wings

Once preheated, arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. If necessary, cook in batches to maintain space for air circulation, which is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.

Cook the wings for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to ensure they reach your desired level of crispiness.

Step 5: Sauce Them Up

Once the wings are done and crispy, remove them from the air fryer using tongs. If you prefer them saucy, place them in a large mixing bowl and toss them with your chosen wing sauce. For a classic approach, a mixture of hot sauce and melted butter can be delightful.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your crispy air fryer wings with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a side of your favourite dip, such as blue cheese or ranch dressing. They’re perfect for gatherings, game days, or a tasty snack at any time.

Tips for Perfect Wings

• Use Baking Powder: This helps to dry out the skin and creates an ultra-crisp texture.
• Do Not Overcrowd: Ensure there’s enough space for air to circulate around the wings; if they’re too crowded, they will steam rather than fry.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and marinades according to your palate. Teriyaki, lemon-pepper, or even a sweet chilli sauce can work wonders!

Conclusion

With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up some super crispy air fryer wings that are sure to delight. Not only are they tasty, but they also offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried wings. Give this recipe a try, and prepare to indulge guilt-free!