If you’re craving the perfect snack or appetizer for game day or any casual gathering, this Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe is your ultimate go-to. Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and coated in that classic spicy buffalo sauce made from Frank’s RedHot and butter, these wings deliver all the bold flavor and satisfying crunch without the hassle of deep frying. Plus, using the air fryer means less oil and less mess, but all the taste and excitement you expect from great buffalo wings. Whether you’re feeding friends or simply indulging in a personal favorite, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you — each one plays a crucial role in building that irresistible texture and flavor that buffalo wings are famous for. The combination of baking powder and spices ensures crispiness, while the hot sauce and butter bring the iconic spicy tang and richness.
- 2 pounds chicken wings, split and tips removed: Choose fresh wings and make sure to pat them dry for ultimate crispiness.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free): This is your secret weapon for crispy skin without frying.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a mild aromatic depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Rounds out the savory seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a subtle kick and balances the seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika: Brings a hint of earthy color and smoky warmth.
- 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce or other buffalo-style hot sauce: The heart of buffalo flavor, adjust to your desired heat.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Balances heat with creamy richness in the sauce.
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish: Freshens the dish with color and brightness.
- Optional: ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving: Perfect for dipping and cooling down the heat.
How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Wings
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, be sure to pat each chicken wing completely dry with paper towels — this is key to getting that coveted crispiness. Once dry, toss them in a large bowl with baking powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika to coat evenly. This blend not only seasons the wings but also helps transform the skin into a crunchy, golden delight when cooked.
Step 2: Air Fry Until Crispy
Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer inside your air fryer basket. Make sure none of the wings are touching, so the hot air circulates freely and crisp up each one evenly. Cook at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 24 to 26 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through to ensure all sides get that beautiful, golden brown crunch that makes buffalo wings irresistible. The air fryer does all the work here, so all you need to do is enjoy the aromas filling your kitchen!
Step 3: Toss with Buffalo Sauce
While the wings are cooking, whisk together Frank’s RedHot sauce with melted unsalted butter in a large bowl. Once the wings are cooked to perfection, immediately transfer them into this bowl and toss thoroughly until every wing is gloriously coated in that tangy, buttery buffalo sauce that defines the dish. This step guarantees juicy, flavorful wings with just the right amount of heat and richness that make your taste buds dance.
How to Serve Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your wings with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or sliced green onions not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also injects a subtle freshness that balances the heat beautifully. These garnishes bring a little something extra that elevates the presentation and flavor, making your Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe irresistible to the eye as well as the palate.
Side Dishes
Pair these wings with creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping; their cool, tangy profiles provide the perfect counterpoint to the spicy buffalo sauce. For a well-rounded meal, add classic celery and carrot sticks for crunch and freshness. If you’re feeling adventurous, crispy fries or a light green salad will round out the meal perfectly without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress your guests by serving your buffalo wings on a large wooden board or rustic platter lined with parchment paper for that casual, inviting vibe. For a fun twist, arrange the wings around small bowls of different dipping sauces like honey mustard, garlic aioli, or even a smoky chipotle ranch. Turning the wings into sliders by placing them on mini buns with crisp lettuce and cheese is another playful way to showcase this Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with wings to spare, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days while retaining most of their flavor and texture, making them easy to enjoy as a quick snack or meal the next day.
Freezing
To freeze leftover wings, let them cool completely and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid clumping. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and are perfect for meal prepping or unexpected cravings.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your buffalo wings is by using your air fryer again at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 7 minutes, which helps retain the crispy skin while warming the inside perfectly. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the skin soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the wings completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This ensures you still get that crispy exterior and avoids any steaming or sogginess.
Is baking powder necessary for crispy wings?
Yes, using aluminum-free baking powder is key to getting that restaurant-style crispiness in the air fryer. It changes the pH of the skin and helps it dry out, so the wings crisp up beautifully without frying.
How spicy are these wings?
The heat level depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. Frank’s RedHot provides a medium level heat that most people enjoy, but you can go milder or hotter based on your preference by swapping in a different hot sauce.
Can I make these wings gluten-free?
Definitely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free baking powder and confirm your buffalo sauce doesn’t contain gluten, making it a safe and tasty choice for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Do I need to flip the wings halfway through cooking?
Flipping the wings halfway ensures they brown evenly on all sides, leading to more consistent crispiness. Skipping this step might result in uneven cooking, especially in an air fryer.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings the flavor, crunch, and spice everyone loves while keeping things easy and less messy than traditional frying. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how effortlessly delicious homemade buffalo wings can be—perfect for game days, parties, or whenever the craving strikes!
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Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Wings made with a perfect blend of spices and tossed in a classic buffalo sauce. These wings are easy to prepare, cooked quickly in the air fryer for a healthier alternative to deep-fried wings, and perfect for game day or any casual gathering.
Ingredients
Chicken Wings
- 2 pounds chicken wings, split and tips removed
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Buffalo Sauce
- 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce or other buffalo-style hot sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Optional Garnish & Serving
- Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes to ensure it is hot and ready for the wings.
- Prepare Wings: Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels to help them crisp up. In a large bowl, toss the wings with baking powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika until all wings are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Arrange Wings: Place the seasoned wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure the wings do not touch each other to allow even air circulation and crisping.
- Air Fry Wings: Cook the wings at 400°F for 24–26 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides become golden brown and crispy.
- Make Buffalo Sauce: While the wings cook, whisk together the hot sauce and melted butter in a large bowl until fully combined to create the buffalo sauce.
- Toss Wings in Sauce: Once wings are fully cooked, transfer them immediately to the bowl with buffalo sauce and toss well to coat each wing evenly.
- Serve: Serve the buffalo wings hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions if desired, and accompanied by ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crispy wings, after seasoning, let them air dry in the refrigerator uncovered for 1–2 hours before air frying.
- Adjust the heat by choosing a milder or hotter buffalo sauce depending on your preference.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure crispy results.
- Patting the wings dry is essential to achieve maximum crispiness.
