Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these air fryer salt and pepper wings! They come out so crispy and flavorful, you’ll be amazed that they’re not deep-fried. I’ve been air frying for a while now, and I can honestly say this recipe is a total game-changer. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a big gathering with friends, these wings always steal the show. The best part? They’re super easy to whip up! You just toss the wings with some simple seasonings, pop them in the air fryer, and voilà! In about 30 minutes, you’ve got a platter of golden, crispy perfection. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to make them for every game day and get-together. They’re the perfect finger food that everyone can enjoy!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Wings
Gather these simple ingredients to make the most delicious air fryer salt and pepper wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
These are all easy to find, and I love that they create such a flavorful punch without needing a ton of fancy ingredients. Just remember to keep the wings nice and dry before seasoning for that extra crispiness!
How to Prepare Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Wings
Preheat the Air Fryer
First things first, we need to preheat that air fryer! Set it to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it helps the wings get that amazing crispy texture we all love. If you skip this step, your wings might end up a little soggy instead of perfectly golden brown. So, let it heat up while you get everything else ready!
Prepare the Wings
Now, let’s get those wings ready! In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and olive oil. I like to use my hands for this—it’s the best way to make sure all the wings are evenly coated. Don’t be shy! Get in there and mix it all up until every wing is covered in that delicious seasoning. This is where the magic begins!
Air Fry the Wings
Once the wings are coated, it’s time to load them into the air fryer. Place them in a single layer in the basket, giving them a little space to breathe. If they’re too crowded, they won’t get that crispy finish we’re after. Cook them for about 25-30 minutes. But here’s a little tip: halfway through, shake the basket gently to ensure they’re cooking evenly. Trust me, this makes a world of difference!
Check for Doneness and Serve
After 25-30 minutes, it’s time to check on those beauties. They should be golden brown and crispy! If they’re not quite there yet, feel free to pop them back in for another few minutes. Once they’re done, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle and keeps the wings nice and juicy. You won’t want to skip this step!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your air fryer salt and pepper wings turn out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite pro tips that I swear by:
- Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the salt and pepper to your taste! If you like a bit of heat, toss in some cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder. It adds a nice kick!
- Extra Crispiness: For those days when you want your wings to be even crispier, cook them for an additional 5 minutes. Just keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid burning.
- Dry Wings are Key: If you can, pat your wings dry with paper towels before seasoning. Removing excess moisture helps them crisp up beautifully in the air fryer!
- Don’t Overcrowd: This is super important! Make sure the wings are in a single layer. If you have a lot of wings, you might want to cook them in batches. It’s worth it for that perfect crunch!
- Let Them Rest: As tempting as it is to dive right in, letting your wings rest for a few minutes after cooking is crucial. It makes a big difference in keeping them juicy!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with the best air fryer wings ever! Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about the nutrition of these air fryer salt and pepper wings! Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (which is about 5 wings):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods. But hey, with all that protein and flavor, these wings make for a deliciously satisfying treat! Perfect for game day or when you just want a tasty snack!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making these scrumptious air fryer salt and pepper wings? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common ones I hear:
How can I make these wings spicier?
If you’re looking to turn up the heat, I recommend adding some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix. You can also toss the cooked wings in a spicy sauce, like buffalo or sriracha, for an extra kick!
Can I use frozen wings?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that frozen wings will need a little extra cooking time. Make sure to check for doneness—aim for that golden brown and crispy exterior. You can cook them straight from frozen; just add about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
What dipping sauces pair well with these wings?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love serving these wings with classic ranch or blue cheese dressing. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a sweet chili sauce or even a homemade garlic aioli. Whatever you choose, it’ll be delicious!
Can I make these wings ahead of time?
While these wings are best served fresh, you can definitely prepare them ahead of time. Just season the wings and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready, just pop them in the air fryer for that crispy finish!
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No worries! You can bake these wings in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 40-45 minutes. Just make sure to flip them halfway through to get that even crispiness. They’ll still be delicious!
I hope this helps clear up any questions you might have! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more—I’m here to help you make the best wings ever!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can whip up these wings in just about 10 minutes of prep time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a quick snack!
- Easy Cooking Method: The air fryer does all the work for you! Just season, pop in the fryer, and relax while they cook to crispy perfection.
- Great Flavor Profile: The combination of salt and pepper with the savory notes of garlic and onion creates a classic flavor that satisfies every palate.
- Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the crispy texture of fried wings without the guilt, as air frying uses less oil and results in fewer calories!
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasonings or add your favorite spices for a unique twist every time you make them!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or just a cozy night in, these wings are sure to impress everyone!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got these crispy air fryer salt and pepper wings ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them! These wings are so versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are some of my favorite ideas:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect complement to the savory wings. Try mixing arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber for a refreshing crunch!
- Vegetable Sticks: Keep it classic with a platter of crunchy carrot, celery, and bell pepper sticks. They’re great for dipping in your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing!
- Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Who doesn’t love fries? Pair your wings with some crispy fries or sweet potato fries for a fun twist. You can even toss them in a bit of salt and pepper for extra flavor!
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds a nice crunch and balances the spiciness of the wings. Plus, it’s a great way to add some veggies to your spread!
- Mac and Cheese: For a heartier meal, serve your wings with a side of cheesy mac. The richness of the cheese pairs beautifully with the crispy wings!
Whatever you choose, I promise these wings will steal the show. So gather your favorite sides, kick back, and enjoy your delicious feast!
Print
Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Wings: 5 Secrets to Crispy Bliss
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy and flavorful air fryer salt and pepper wings.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine chicken wings, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and olive oil.
- Toss until wings are evenly coated.
- Place wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Check for doneness; wings should be golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- For extra crispiness, cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 wings
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: air fryer salt and pepper wings, crispy wings, easy chicken wings