Air Fryer Buffalo Wings: The Ultimate 20-Minute Recipe for Crispy, Juicy Perfection!

Forget the deep fryer and messy oil – get ready to revolutionize your weeknight snack or game-day spread with the easiest, crispiest Air Fryer Buffalo Wings you’ll ever make! This recipe delivers incredibly tender chicken with a perfectly golden, crackly skin, all coated in that iconic tangy heat. In under 20 minutes, you can have a batch of these glorious wings ready, proving that getting perfectly crispy air fryer buffalo wings at home is not only possible but delightfully simple. Say goodbye to soggy wings and hello to your new favorite go-to recipe!

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Quick Glance Summary

These Air Fryer Buffalo Wings are a game-changer for anyone craving that classic pub-style flavor without the fuss. With minimal prep and quick cooking time in the air fryer, you’ll achieve unbelievably crispy wings coated in a buttery, spicy buffalo sauce. Perfect for appetizers, parties, or a satisfying main course.

What You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to deliciousness. This recipe uses simple items you likely already have on hand to create restaurant-quality wings.

2 lbs chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes, pat very dry
1 tbsp baking powder (aluminum-free is recommended for no metallic taste)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Buffalo Sauce:
1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Original Sauce
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp white vinegar
1/2 tsp garlic powder

Preparation Instructions

Get ready to make the best Air Fryer Buffalo Wings following these easy steps. Achieving that sought-after crunch for crispy air fryer buffalo wings is all about the dry wings and the baking powder!

1. Prepare the Wings: Ensure your chicken wings are extremely dry. Pat them thoroughly with paper towels. The drier the wings, the crispier they will get.
2. Season the Wings: In a large bowl, toss the dried wings with the baking powder, salt, and black pepper until each wing is evenly coated. The baking powder is key to extra crispy skin!
3. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 5 minutes.
4. Air Fry: Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook in batches if necessary. Air fry for 18-22 minutes, flipping the wings every 6-7 minutes, until they are golden brown, exceptionally crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Make the Buffalo Sauce: While the wings are cooking, prepare your classic Buffalo sauce. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine Frank’s RedHot Original Sauce, melted unsalted butter, white vinegar, and garlic powder. Heat for 30 seconds in the microwave, then whisk vigorously until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
6. Sauce and Serve: Once the wings are cooked to perfection, transfer them immediately to a large clean bowl. Pour the prepared Buffalo sauce over the hot wings and toss gently until every wing is thoroughly coated in that irresistible spicy sauce. Serve piping hot with blue cheese or ranch dressing and crisp celery sticks.

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

Elevate your wing experience with these creative variations!

Garlic Parmesan: After air frying, skip the buffalo sauce and toss wings in melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Honey BBQ: Instead of buffalo, coat the finished wings in your favorite sticky honey BBQ sauce for a sweeter, smoky flavor.
Spicy Ranch: Mix ranch dressing powder into your buffalo sauce for a creamy, tangy heat.
Lemon Pepper: Toss crispy wings with a dry lemon pepper seasoning blend right after air frying for a zesty, savory crunch.
Korean BBQ: Brush on a sweet and spicy Korean gochujang-based sauce for an umami kick.

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen wings?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to thaw them completely and pat them very dry before proceeding with the recipe for best results. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Q: Why use baking powder?
A: Baking powder (specifically aluminum-free) raises the pH level on the chicken skin, helping it to brown and crisp up significantly more than with salt alone. It creates tiny bubbles that expand, resulting in an incredibly crunchy exterior.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Q: How do I reheat air fryer wings?
A: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

Q: Can I make these hotter or milder?
A: Absolutely! For hotter wings, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of ghost pepper hot sauce to your buffalo sauce. For milder, reduce the amount of Frank’s RedHot and increase the butter slightly.

Conclusion

There you have it – the ultimate recipe for achieving restaurant-quality Air Fryer Buffalo Wings right in your own kitchen! This method is not only faster and healthier than traditional frying, but it consistently delivers perfectly cooked, juicy wings with that irresistible crunch everyone craves. Say goodbye to soggy take-out and hello to a homemade delight that will have everyone asking for more. Get ready to impress your taste buds with truly crispy air fryer buffalo wings every single time. Enjoy!

Recipe Note

For the absolute crispiest results, ensure you do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in multiple batches if necessary, allowing enough space for the hot air to circulate freely around each wing.