Southern Fried Chicken Wings Recipe In Air Fryer

Learn how to make crispy, juicy, and flavorful Southern Fried Chicken Wings in an air fryer. This recipe is a healthier twist on a classic comfort food, delivering the same irresistible crunch with a fraction of the oil.

---

Introduction

Southern Fried Chicken Wings are a staple in Southern cuisine, known for their crunchy exterior and succulent, well-seasoned meat. Traditionally, this dish is deep-fried to golden perfection, but the air fryer has revolutionized the way we enjoy fried foods. By using an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy texture without the extra grease, making it a lighter yet equally satisfying option. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or even a casual weeknight dinner, these air-fried wings are sure to become a household favorite.

This recipe ensures you enjoy all the rich flavors of the South without compromising on health or taste. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this guide will walk you through every step, from preparation to serving.

---

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 25 minutes
• Resting Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Cuisine: Southern, American
• Course: Appetizer, Main Dish
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~350 calories

---

Ingredients

For the Chicken Wings:

• 2 lbs chicken wings (drums and flats separated, skin-on)
• 1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice)
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for a spicy kick)

For the Seasoned Flour Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For Air Frying:

• Cooking spray or oil (high smoke point, like avocado or canola oil)

---

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large zip-top bag or shallow dish
• Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)

---

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 780mg

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the coating stick better.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine buttermilk and hot sauce. Add the chicken wings to the mixture, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Let the wings marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In a large zip-top bag or shallow dish, mix all the coating ingredients: all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Remove the chicken wings from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the wings into the flour mixture in batches, coating them thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour and set the wings aside on a tray.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness.
2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Wings

1. Arrange the coated chicken wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each wing. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation.
2. Spray the wings lightly with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12 minutes. Flip the wings and air fry for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the wings from the air fryer and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
2. Serve the Southern Fried Chicken Wings immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, blue cheese, or honey mustard.

---

Tips for Success

1. Double Coating: For an extra-crispy texture, dip the wings back into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again before air frying.
2. Spice it Up: Adjust the cayenne pepper and hot sauce levels to customize the spice level to your liking.
3. Batch Cooking: If you’re making a large batch, cook the wings in multiple rounds. Keep the cooked wings warm in an oven set to 200°F (93°C).

---

Why Use an Air Fryer?

Air frying significantly reduces the amount of oil used compared to traditional deep frying. The result is a healthier dish with the same golden-brown crunch and juicy interior. Plus, air fryers are faster, easier to clean, and more energy-efficient than traditional ovens or deep fryers.

---

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Southern Fried Chicken Wings with classic Southern sides like coleslaw, mac and cheese, cornbread, or collard greens. Add a cool, creamy dipping sauce to balance the spice and crunch.

---

Conclusion

This Southern Fried Chicken Wings Recipe in Air Fryer is the perfect combination of convenience, health, and flavor. By ditching the deep fryer and embracing the air fryer, you can enjoy a beloved Southern classic guilt-free. Whether for a party, a weekend treat, or a simple dinner, these wings are sure to impress everyone at the table. Try this recipe today and bring the taste of the South into your kitchen!