Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Wings

These Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Wings are the ultimate combination of smoky, sticky, and crispy; without all the oil! Perfect for game days, family dinners, or anytime you're craving finger-licking goodness with less guilt.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Resting Time 5

Total Time 35

Servings: 4

Course: Air Fryer, chicken

Cuisine: American

Calories: 290

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken wings Fresh or thawed separated at joints
1 tbsp olive oil Helps crisp the skin
1 tsp garlic powder Adds depth of flavor
1 tsp smoked paprika Adds a smoky undertone
1 tsp salt Adjust to taste
1/2 tsp black pepper Freshly ground if possible
1/2 tsp onion powder Optional for extra flavor
1/2 cup BBQ sauce Use your favorite ; spicy sweet, or smoky

Equipment

1 Air Fryer Any basket-style model works
1 Mixing Bowl For seasoning and tossing wings
1 Tongs For flipping and removing wings
1 Brush For applying BBQ sauce

Method

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and onion powder until evenly coated.
Place wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed).
Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
Remove wings and let them rest for 5 minutes.
Brush with BBQ sauce while warm. Return to the air fryer for 2 more minutes to caramelize the sauce, if desired.
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or sides!

Notes

For extra crispy wings, pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning.
Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or use spicy BBQ sauce.
You can marinate the wings overnight for even deeper flavor.