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Ultimate Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings with Baking Powder

A close-up of a mound of perfectly cooked, crispy air fryer chicken wings piled high on a white plate.

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You achieve perfectly crunchy, golden chicken wings in your air fryer using a simple baking powder trick. These wings stay juicy inside and are ideal for game day or a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs chicken wings (flats and drumettes separated)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels. This step is crucial for crispiness.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika. Mix the dry rub thoroughly.
  3. Add the dried chicken wings to the bowl. Toss them well until every piece is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for at least 5 minutes.
  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 for 20 minutes.
  7. Flip the wings over. Continue to air fry for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the skin is deeply golden brown and very crispy. Total cook time will be between 25 and 30 minutes depending on your air fryer model.
  8. Remove the wings and serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Baking powder raises the pH level of the chicken skin, which helps break down proteins and promotes browning and crisping during cooking.
  • For extra flavor, you can toss the cooked wings in your favorite sauce, but note that adding sauce after cooking will soften the crisp exterior slightly.
  • If you are using frozen wings, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.

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