The Best Air Fryer Buffalo Wings – Crispy & Spicy Chicken Wings

If you have a love for spicy, crispy, and juicy chicken wings that hit all the right notes, you are in for a treat. The Best Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe takes your favorite game day snack and transforms it into a foolproof, healthier, and utterly delicious dish you can whip up quickly at home. With a secret ingredient that guarantees crispiness and a perfectly balanced sauce, these wings will become your go-to for any occasion that calls for bold flavor and finger-licking satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows four white bowls on a white marbled surface. The largest bowl at the bottom is full of pale chicken drummettes, showing light pink and cream skin textures. To the upper right, there is a small white bowl with bright red buffalo sauce, smooth and glossy. Above it, there is a medium white bowl with five different spices arranged in a circle, each with a different color: red, white, black, beige, and light brown. To the left, a small white bowl holds pure white potato starch with a powdery texture. The bowls are spaced evenly and neatly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting these wings just right is all about using simple but essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in flavor, texture, and that irresistible golden crunch. Let’s break down why you need each one.

2 pounds chicken drummettes: These smaller wing pieces cook evenly and have the perfect ratio of meat to skin for crispiness.
2 Tablespoons potato starch: The secret to making the wings crispier than ever when air fried, it forms a light coating that locks in moisture.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory depth that complements the wings beautifully.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Gives a subtle sweetness and balance to the spice blend.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Imparts a smoky aroma and a gorgeous reddish color to the wings.
Freshly ground pepper, to taste: Enhances the overall flavor with a mild kick of heat.
1 bottle Buffalo wing sauce: Choose your favorite, like Primal Palate, for that signature tangy and spicy sauce that brings everything together.
Olive oil spray: Helps the wings crisp up and prevents sticking in the air fryer basket.

How to Make The Best Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Dry the Wings

Start by patting your chicken drummettes really dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because removing excess moisture helps the wings crisp up beautifully when cooked. Trust me, a dry wing skin before seasoning is a game changer.

Step 2: Mix the Coating

In a large bowl, whisk together the potato starch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and freshly ground pepper. This flavorful coating will stick to your wings and create the perfect crust once air fried. The potato starch is the magic dust that makes all the difference.

Step 3: Coat the Wings

Add the dried wings to the bowl and toss them thoroughly so every piece gets an even coating of the starch and spices mixture. This ensures each bite bursts with balanced flavor and achieves that coveted crispy exterior.

Step 4: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer

Lightly spray your air fryer basket with olive oil spray—this prevents sticking and helps with browning. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, setting the stage for wings that cook evenly and crisp up beautifully.

Step 5: Air Fry the Wings

Place the wings in a single layer inside the basket, making sure not to overcrowd. You’ll likely need to cook in two batches for the best results. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray. Air fry for 20 to 23 minutes, shaking the basket every few minutes to avoid sticking and ensure all sides crisp up perfectly.

Step 6: Toss in Buffalo Sauce

Once cooked, warm your Buffalo wing sauce on the stove or in the microwave. Toss the freshly fried wings in the sauce until each piece is generously coated. Repeat with the second batch and get ready to enjoy one of your new favorite ways to eat wings.

How to Serve The Best Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe

Inside a black air fryer basket with a grid pattern, nine chicken wings are spread out evenly. The wings are well cooked, with a shiny, reddish-brown sauce glaze that gives them a wet and flavorful look. Small green herb bits are sprinkled lightly over the wings, adding a fresh touch. The air fryer basket sits on a surface with a white marbled texture, where a white cloth with orange stripes is partially visible to the side. The scene focuses closely on the wings, showing their crispy texture and the slight caramelization on the edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can elevate the experience. Crisp celery and bright carrot sticks not only provide a refreshing crunch but also a cool counterbalance to the spicy wings. Don’t forget a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and mild herbaceousness.

Side Dishes

These Buffalo wings shine alongside classic sides like creamy ranch or blue cheese dip. For a healthier twist, add a simple side salad or roasted sweet potato fries. The combination of creamy, spicy, and crisp textures rounds out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, line up the wings on a rustic wooden platter with small bowls of dipping sauces scattered around. Layer some parchment paper underneath to soak any saucy drips and add to the casual, fun vibe. You can even skewer the wings for an easy party snack option!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling the wings completely, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick snacks or reheated meals during the week.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked wings in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 2 months and defrost quickly in the fridge overnight.

Reheating

The great thing about The Best Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe is that they reheat beautifully in the air fryer. Simply preheat to 350°F and heat the wings for about 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through. This restores their crispy skin while warming the juicy meat inside.

FAQs

Can I use frozen wings for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed and patted dry wings for the crispiest results. If using frozen, make sure to thaw completely and dry well before coating and air frying.

What can I substitute for potato starch?

If you don’t have potato starch, cornstarch works as a good alternative to achieve that crispy coating, though the texture may be slightly different.

How spicy are these buffalo wings?

The heat level depends largely on the Buffalo sauce you choose. The recipe itself is balanced, so feel free to pick a milder or hotter sauce based on your preference.

Can I double this recipe for a larger group?

Absolutely! Just cook the wings in batches so they have enough space in the air fryer basket to crisp up properly.

Is it necessary to spray the wings with oil?

Yes, a light spray of oil helps the coating crisp without drying out the wings. Skip it and you might end up with softer skin.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a reliable, tasty, and oh-so-satisfying buffalo wing recipe, give The Best Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe a try. It’s a joyous blend of crispy yet juicy wings, bold spices, and classic Buffalo sauce all made easier with the magic of an air fryer. You’ll wonder why you ever made wings any other way!

The Best Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need