First, if your air fryer requires preheating, make sure to preheat it to 400℉. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
Next, in a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 2 teaspoons of onion powder, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. This blend is what gives your wings their amazing flavor.
Once mixed, it’s time to prepare the wings. Trim any excess fat or skin from the chicken wings if needed. This will help them cook more evenly.
Lightly pat dry the chicken wings with a paper towel to remove any moisture. This step is key for achieving that crispy finish.
Now, place the wings into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle ½ teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil over the wings. This will help the seasoning adhere beautifully.
Add the seasoning mix to the bowl and toss the wings to coat them evenly. Make sure every wing is covered in that delicious seasoning.
Evenly spread the wings out onto the basket or tray of your air fryer, ensuring that they don’t overlap. This allows the hot air to circulate and cook them evenly.
Cook the wings for 10 minutes at 400℉. After the time is up, carefully remove the basket or tray and flip the chicken wings. This helps them get that golden-brown color on both sides.
Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 8 minutes at 400℉. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
Finally, once they’re golden and crispy, serve the Air Fryer Chicken Wings immediately. If you'd like, toss them with your favorite sauce before serving!