Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe, Easy Buffalo Chicken Wings

Buffalo wings are a timeless classic, beloved by food enthusiasts worldwide. They are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and spicy, making them a go-to appetizer for parties, game days, or casual dinners. With an air fryer, you can achieve the crispy texture of deep-fried wings without all the added oil and mess. This recipe for Air Fryer Buffalo Wings is not only healthier but also incredibly easy to prepare, ensuring you can enjoy a batch of finger-licking-good wings in no time.

---

Introduction

Air fryers have revolutionized the way we prepare fried foods, offering a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture. This Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe is a testament to that, delivering crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside chicken wings coated in a tangy buffalo sauce. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a savory snack, these wings are sure to satisfy. They are quick to make, require minimal ingredients, and pack a flavorful punch.

---

Recipe Details

• Cuisines: American
• Course: Appetizer, Snack
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~250 kcal
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Active Time (Cook Time): 20 minutes
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

---

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Cholesterol: 80mg

---

Ingredients

For the Wings:

• 2 pounds chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Buffalo Sauce:

• ½ cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

---

Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Small saucepan (for the sauce)
• Silicone brush (optional, for applying sauce)

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken Wings

1. Rinse and pat dry the chicken wings with paper towels. Ensuring the wings are completely dry is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.
2. In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil to coat evenly.
3. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the wings are evenly coated with the seasoning.

---

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the wings cook evenly and crisp up nicely.

---

Step 3: Cook the Wings

1. Arrange the chicken wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
2. Air fry the wings at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The wings are ready when they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

---

Step 4: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

1. While the wings are cooking, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, honey (if using), and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well until smooth and heated through.
2. Remove from heat and set aside.

---

Step 5: Toss the Wings in Sauce

1. Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the wings and toss until they are evenly coated.
2. Let the wings rest for 5 minutes to allow the sauce to soak in.

---

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the buffalo wings hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing. Garnish with celery sticks and carrot sticks on the side for a classic presentation.

---

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

1. Dry the Wings Thoroughly: Removing excess moisture is essential for crispiness.
2. Cook in Batches: Overcrowding the air fryer basket can lead to uneven cooking.
3. Flip Halfway: Turning the wings ensures both sides cook evenly.
4. Customize the Heat Level: Adjust the amount of hot sauce or add cayenne pepper for spicier wings.
5. Reheat Properly: To reheat leftover wings, air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.

---

Why Make Buffalo Wings in an Air Fryer?

• Healthier Alternative: Air frying reduces the need for excessive oil, cutting down on calories and fat.
• Faster Cooking Time: Compared to traditional oven or deep-frying methods, air fryers cook wings faster without compromising on crispiness.
• Easy Cleanup: With minimal oil and no frying mess, cleaning up is a breeze.

---

Variations to Try

1. Honey Garlic Wings: Replace the buffalo sauce with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
2. Parmesan Garlic Wings: Toss the wings with melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Asian-Inspired Wings: Use a sauce made with soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and a hint of sriracha.

---

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe is a game-changer for wing enthusiasts. It combines the irresistible flavor of buffalo wings with the convenience and health benefits of air frying. Perfectly crispy, flavorful, and easy to make, these wings are guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re preparing for a party or indulging in a personal craving, this recipe is your go-to solution for delicious buffalo wings without the hassle.