BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Wings

There’s nothing quite like crispy, flavorful wings, and BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Wings are my go-to when I want a quick and satisfying meal. One summer evening, I found myself craving something finger-licking good. I remembered the air fryer sitting on my countertop, waiting to be put to good use. As I gathered my ingredients, excitement bubbled up inside me. The thought of juicy wings tossed in rich BBQ sauce, with that perfect crunch from the air fryer, made my mouth water. It was a perfect night for some wings, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. As the sun set and the aroma filled my kitchen, I knew this was going to be a special treat.

BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Wings Shopping List

When crafting BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Wings, it’s essential to choose quality ingredients that complement each other beautifully. The key players in this dish are the chicken wings, which provide a satisfying base, and the various seasonings that enhance their flavor. The combination of spices and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.

• 2 pounds of chicken wings – The star of the show! Look for fresh wings that are plump and meaty.
• 1 to 2 tablespoons of canola oil – This helps achieve that crispy texture. You can also use avocado or grapeseed oil.
• 2 tablespoons of dark brown sugar (optional) – Adds a nice depth of sweetness to the wings.
• 1 ½ teaspoons of sea salt – Essential for enhancing the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon of fresh ground black pepper – A must for a bit of heat.
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder – This helps crisp up the skin.
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika – Infuses a lovely smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder – For that aromatic essence that wings crave.
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder – Adds another layer of flavor.
• ½ teaspoon of ground mustard – A subtle tang that elevates the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional) – For those who like a bit of spice.
• ¾ cup of barbecue sauce of your choice – This is where you can get creative with flavors!

Recipe Steps for BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Cooking BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Wings is a breeze, and you’ll love how straightforward the process is. Follow these steps, and you’ll soon be enjoying your delicious creation. First, let’s get your air fryer ready and your ingredients prepped.

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This step is crucial for achieving crispy wings. The preheating allows the air fryer to reach the right temperature, ensuring even cooking.

2. If you prefer, you can cut the wings into drumettes and flats. This step is optional but can make them easier to serve. Just make sure to pat each piece dry with a paper towel. This helps the skin get extra crispy during cooking.

3. In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with canola oil until they are evenly coated. This will help the seasonings stick and give the wings that desired crunch.

4. In a separate small bowl, mix together the dark brown sugar (if using), sea salt, black pepper, baking powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, and cayenne pepper (if using). This spice mixture will elevate the flavor of the wings significantly.

5. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken wings and toss to ensure they are evenly coated. This is where the magic happens; the wings absorb all those wonderful flavors!

6. Spray the basket of the air fryer with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place a single layer of wings in the basket. Avoid crowding them to ensure they cook evenly. If you have more wings, repeat this step for any additional batches.

7. Cook for 8 to 9 minutes, then flip the wings over. Continue cooking for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until crispy. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect golden brown.

8. Once done, remove the wings from the air fryer and brush BBQ sauce onto each piece. This step is essential for that saucy goodness.

9. Return the wings to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the chicken. This ensures they are cooked through while retaining moisture.

10. Serve the hot wings with celery, blue cheese dressing, additional BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing (optional). Enjoy your creation and savor each bite!

Recipe Variations about BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Wings

There are countless ways to customize BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Wings to suit your taste. Here are some variations to consider that will keep your wings exciting and delicious.

• Spicy Garlic Wings: Add extra minced garlic and a splash of hot sauce for a zesty kick.
• Teriyaki Wings: Swap out BBQ sauce for a sweet teriyaki glaze for a delightful Asian twist.
• Honey Mustard Wings: Mix honey and mustard for a sweet and tangy alternative.
• Buffalo Style: Toss cooked wings in buffalo sauce for that classic flavor.
• Smoky Chipotle Wings: Incorporate chipotle powder into your seasoning for a smoky flavor.
• Asian-Inspired Wings: Use soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger for a unique flavor profile.
• Herb Infused Wings: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to your seasoning mix for a refreshing touch.

What Goes Well With This BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Wings

When serving BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Wings, think about complementary sides and occasions. Here are some fantastic pairings that will complete your meal:

• Crispy Fries: A classic pairing, fries are always a hit! Consider sweet potato or loaded cheese fries for added flavor.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crunchy contrast to the savory wings.
• Veggie Platter: Serve with fresh veggies and dips for a healthy side option.
• Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad balances the spicy wings perfectly.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn pairs beautifully with BBQ flavors.
• Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf can soak up the flavors of the sauce.
• Perfect for Game Day: These wings are a must-have for watching the big game or hosting a backyard BBQ.
• Family Dinners: They make for a fun family dinner, where everyone can get involved in saucing their wings.

FAQ

Conclusion

The charm of BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Wings lies in their deliciously crispy texture and rich flavors, making them a delightful choice for any gathering. Easy to prepare and customizable, they can satisfy any wing lover’s cravings. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Craving something crispy and juicy? These BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Wings are your answer! With their smoky flavor and perfectly seasoned skin, they're the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Simple to make and packed with flavor, you'll want to try this easy recipe tonight!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 16 minutes mins

Total Time 21 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds chicken wings
• 1 to 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar optional
• 1 ½ teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
• ¾ cup barbecue sauce of your choice

Equipment

• Skillet
• Air Fryer
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This step is crucial for achieving crispy wings. The preheating allows the air fryer to reach the right temperature, ensuring even cooking.
2. If you prefer, you can cut the wings into drumettes and flats. This step is optional but can make them easier to serve. Just make sure to pat each piece dry with a paper towel. This helps the skin get extra crispy during cooking.
3. In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with canola oil until they are evenly coated. This will help the seasonings stick and give the wings that desired crunch.
4. In a separate small bowl, mix together the dark brown sugar (if using), sea salt, black pepper, baking powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, and cayenne pepper (if using). This spice mixture will elevate the flavor of the wings significantly.
5. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken wings and toss to ensure they are evenly coated. This is where the magic happens; the wings absorb all those wonderful flavors!
6. Spray the basket of the air fryer with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place a single layer of wings in the basket. Avoid crowding them to ensure they cook evenly. If you have more wings, repeat this step for any additional batches.
7. Cook for 8 to 9 minutes, then flip the wings over. Continue cooking for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until crispy. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect golden brown.
8. Once done, remove the wings from the air fryer and brush BBQ sauce onto each piece. This step is essential for that saucy goodness.
9. Return the wings to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the chicken. This ensures they are cooked through while retaining moisture.
10. Serve the hot wings with celery, blue cheese dressing, additional BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing (optional). Enjoy your creation and savor each bite!

Notes

• Storage: Leftover wings should be cooled and then transferred to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, pop them in the air fryer or oven for a few minutes until they’re crispy again.
• Freezing: Transfer to a freezer-safe, airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or air fryer.

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.