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Extra Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings with Dry Rub

A close-up of a pile of golden brown, very crispy air fryer chicken wings stacked on a white plate.
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Make perfectly crunchy, juicy chicken wings in your air fryer using a simple dry rub. This recipe skips deep frying and delivers a satisfying crunch ideal for game day or a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs chicken wings (flats and drumettes)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free recommended for best crisp)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil or cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels. This step is critical for crispiness.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix the dry rub thoroughly.
  3. Place the dried wings in the bowl and toss them with the dry rub mixture until every piece is evenly coated.
  4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil.
  5. Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary to allow air circulation.
  6. Air fry at 380 degrees Fahrenheit (195 degrees Celsius) for 15 minutes.
  7. After 15 minutes, carefully flip the wings.
  8. Increase the temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and cook for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the wings are golden brown and very crispy. Total cook time is usually 20 to 25 minutes depending on your air fryer model.
  9. Remove the wings from the air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Baking powder reacts with the chicken skin to draw out moisture, creating the best texture without deep frying.
  • For the juiciest and crispiest wings, do not skip drying the wings thoroughly before seasoning.
  • If you prefer sauced wings, toss them in your favorite sauce immediately after they come out of the air fryer.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishcraze.com/crispy-air-fryer-chicken-wings/