Throw out the old deep fryer and enjoy our Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Wings that take only minutes to prep.
We season frozen wings with olive oil and spices, air frying them until crispy, and then tossing them in warm Buffalo sauce.
Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Wings Recipe Highlights
- QUICK & EASY - Make crispy, restaurant-worthy wings in just 30 minutes, straight from frozen. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
- AIR FRYER MAGIC - The air fryer delivers delicious crunch with minimal oil.
- BUDGET-FRIEDLY - Perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
- CROWD-PLEASER - Crispy, flavorful wings are a guaranteed hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
Please check the recipe card below for a detailed, printable ingredient list.
WINGS - Frozen chicken wings are perfect for this recipe because they are convenient and widely available. They are typically pre-cut, making them easy to handle. Fresh wings can be used as well. If your frozen wings are stuck together, run them through cold water and break them apart.
OIL - Olive oil serves 2 purposes in this recipe. It helps crisp up the chicken wings during the air frying, providing that golden brown and crispy skin. Also, it acts as a carrier for the seasonings, ensuring that they stick to each wing. You can substitute olive oil with other cooking oils like vegetables, canola oil, or oil spray.
SEASONING - These dry seasonings add depth and complexity to the flavor profile of the chicken wings. Garlic powder adds a savory kick, onion powder enhances the overall flavor, and smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices or use fresh minced garlic and onions for a more intense flavor.
SALT & PEPPER - Salt enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, while pepper adds a bit of heat. Adjust them based on your personal preference. For added heat, you can also experiment with spices like cayenne pepper or chili powder.
BUFFALO SAUCE - Buffalo sauce provides a spicy and tangy flavor to your delicious wings. Store-bought buffalo sauces are convenient, but you can make your own by combining hot sauce, butter, and a touch of vinegar. Adjust the spice level by choosing a milder or hotter sauce. Feel free to use BBQ sauce or your favorite sauce instead.
How To Make Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Wings
Please check the printable recipe card below for more detailed instructions.
- Preheat the Air Fryer to 400° Fahrenheit to ready it for the wings.
- Prepare the chicken wings by evenly coating them in olive oil and spices.
- Arrange in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry the chicken wings for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to achieve a golden and crispy texture on all sides.
Serving Suggestions
CRUNCHY VEGGIES - Pair with carrot and celery sticks for a refreshing crunch and color contrast.
DIPPING DELIGHT - Offer a variety of dips like ranch or blue cheese to complement the spicy wings.
SIDE OF FRIES - Air fryer french fries make a hearty companion, completing the pub-style experience.
Planning and Leftovers
STORE - Store your leftover chicken wings in an airtight container or freezer bag and place them in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness.
REHEAT - You can reheat leftover cooked frozen chicken wings in the air fryer. Simply preheat the air fryer to 350° Fahrenheit and then reheat the wings for 5-8 minutes or until heated.
Recipe Success Tips
EVEN COOKING - Space the wings out in the basket to allow hot air to circulate freely, ensuring each wing is evenly crisped.
FLIPPING IS KEY - Halfway through cooking, give the wings a flip to guarantee that golden crunch all around.
TEMPERATURE CHECK - Use a meat thermometer to confirm they've reached the safe internal temperature of 165° Fahrenheit.
Commonly Asked Questions
What's the best way to achieve crispy air fryer chicken wings?
Preheating your air fryer, patting the wings dry with paper towels, and making sure they are spaced evenly on the basket to allow for proper air circulation are all ways to achieve crispy air fryer chicken wings.
What's your favorite wing sauce to pair with air fryer chicken wings?
My family and I love serving our wings with classic buffalo sauce or a tangy BBQ sauce, and blue cheese dressing for dipping.
What's the best part about cooking chicken wings in an air fryer?
The air fryer offers a healthier alternative to deep frying, producing crispy wings with less added oil and a shorter cooking time.
Can I use parchment paper or cooking spray in the air fryer?
Yes, parchment paper and cooking spray can be used for easy cleanup and to prevent the wings from sticking to the basket.
Can I use fresh chicken wings instead of frozen ones?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken wings instead of frozen, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time.
Do I need to thaw frozen chicken wings before air-frying them?
No, you don't need to thaw frozen chicken wings before air frying. Air fryers are designed to cook frozen foods.
How do I ensure that the frozen chicken wings are cooked thoroughly?
To ensure the frozen chicken wings are cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer to check their internal temperature. The wings should reach an internal temperature of at least 165° Fahrenheit.
Why do my frozen chicken wings come out soggy in the air fryer?
Sogginess can be caused by overcrowding the air fryer basket or not allowing enough air circulation. Make sure the wings are placed in a single layer with space between them for optimal crisping.
More Easy and Delicious Air Fryer Recipes
CHICKEN CUTLETS - One of the most versatile air fryer recipes you'll ever find.
FROZEN SHRIMP - Crispy on the outside and tender on the outside, this recipe has limitless possibilities.
HOMEMADE BISCUITS - Learn how easily you make scrumptious homemade biscuits.
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Frozen Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken wings frozen, note below recipe
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup Buffalo sauce store-bought or homemade
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400° Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes.
- Place the frozen wings in a large mixing bowl and drizzle olive oil over them. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss the wings until they are evenly coated with the dry rub.
- Arrange the seasoned frozen chicken wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the wings at 400° Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Your wings are ready when they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165° Fahrenheit, and then transfer your cooked wings to a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, heat the buffalo sauce in the microwave for 15-30 seconds or until it's warm. Pour the warm buffalo sauce over the crispy chicken wings and toss them until they are evenly coated.
- Serve the air fryer wings immediately with carrot sticks, celery sticks, air fryer french fries, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.