Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

These air fryer buffalo wings are surprisingly simple to make but do require attention to a few key details for the best results. The secret to crispy skin is thoroughly drying the wings and using baking powder in the coating. Follow these steps for wings that rival any restaurant version!

1. Step 1: Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve maximum crispiness.

   Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.

2. Step 2: The baking powder is the secret to crispy skin - it changes the pH level of the skin, helping it crisp up beautifully.

   In a large bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add the dried chicken wings and toss until evenly coated.

3. Step 3: Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, which is essential for even cooking and crispiness.

   Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren't touching. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

4. Step 4: Using a meat thermometer ensures your wings are safely cooked while remaining juicy.

   Cook the wings for 12 minutes, then flip them over and cook for another 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Step 5: The butter helps mellow the heat of the hot sauce while adding richness. Adjust the honey to your preferred level of sweetness.

   While the wings are cooking, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Add the hot sauce, minced garlic, and honey (if using). Whisk until well combined.

6. Step 6: Toss the wings while they're still hot so they absorb more of the sauce flavor.

   When the wings are done, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the buffalo sauce over them. Toss until all wings are evenly coated.

7. Step 7: This final blast of heat helps the sauce caramelize slightly and adhere better to the wings.

   Return the sauced wings to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to set the sauce.

8. Step 8: The cool, creamy dressing and crisp vegetables provide the perfect contrast to the spicy wings.

   Serve immediately with blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, and carrot sticks on the side.

For extra crispy wings, you can let them sit uncovered in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours after coating with the baking powder mixture. This helps draw out additional moisture from the skin. If you prefer milder wings, simply increase the ratio of butter to hot sauce.