From time to time, I crave a crispy and spicy snack that doesn’t take too much effort to prepare. This Air Fryer Buffalo Wings recipe is my go-to choice when I want something delicious, easy, and full of flavor.

Using the air fryer makes the wings extra crispy while cutting down on unnecessary oil, making them healthier than traditional deep-fried wings. The best part? They are tossed in a bold buffalo sauce that brings the perfect balance of heat and richness.

My favorite thing about this recipe is how simple yet satisfying it is. The air fryer does most of the work, ensuring the wings cook evenly and develop a crispy texture without excessive oil. Adding baking powder to the seasoning helps create a beautiful crunch, similar to restaurant-style wings.

The buffalo sauce, made with hot sauce, butter, and a touch of honey, gives them the iconic spicy kick with a hint of sweetness. It’s a winning combination that never disappoints.

I love making these wings for game nights, family gatherings, or just as a quick snack. They are easy to prepare and taste just as good as traditional fried wings but with less guilt. The air fryer allows me to cook them quickly while keeping them juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. Plus, they pair perfectly with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing, making them a crowd favorite every time.

What is Air Fryer Buffalo Wings?

Air Fryer Buffalo Wings are crispy, flavorful chicken wings cooked in an air fryer instead of being deep-fried. They are seasoned with a mix of spices, cooked until crispy, and then tossed in a spicy buffalo sauce. This method reduces the amount of oil needed while still delivering the crunchy texture and bold flavor that buffalo wings are known for. They are perfect for parties, game days, or a quick meal at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken wings (split into flats and drumettes)
• 1 tbsp baking powder (for extra crispiness)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder

Buffalo Sauce:

• ½ cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
• 3 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tbsp honey (optional for slight sweetness)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

• Air fryer
• Large mixing bowl
• Tongs for flipping wings
• Small bowl for mixing the buffalo sauce
• Whisk for blending the sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Paper towels for patting dry the wings

How to make Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Step 1

Prep the Wings – Pat the chicken wings dry with a paper towel. In a large bowl, toss them with baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder.

Step 2

Cook in the Air Fryer – Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Arrange wings in a single layer and cook for 20 minutes, flipping halfway. Increase temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for another 5 minutes for extra crispiness.

Step 3

Make the Buffalo Sauce – In a small bowl, whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, honey, and Worcestershire sauce.

Step 4

Coat the Wings – Toss the crispy wings in the buffalo sauce until well coated.

Step 5

Serve & Enjoy – Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks.

Tips to Make This Perfect:

• Pat the wings dry before seasoning – This helps them get extra crispy.
• Use baking powder – It creates a crispy coating without needing extra flour or breading.
• Season generously – Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper bring out the best flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket – Cook in batches if necessary to allow proper air circulation.
• Flip the wings halfway through – This ensures even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
• Increase the temperature at the end – Cooking at 400°F for the last 5 minutes gives extra crunch.
• Use the right hot sauce – Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice for authentic buffalo flavor.
• Melt the butter properly – Whisking butter into the hot sauce creates a smooth, rich coating.
• Let the wings rest for a minute before tossing in sauce – This keeps the crispiness intact.
• Serve immediately – Buffalo wings taste best fresh and hot straight from the air fryer.

How to Serve Air Fryer Buffalo Wings?

I like to serve Air Fryer Buffalo Wings fresh and crispy with classic dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese. The cool and creamy dressing balances the spicy heat of the wings, creating a perfect bite. Adding some celery and carrot sticks on the side gives a refreshing crunch and makes for a well-rounded snack.

If you’re serving them as a main dish, pair them with crispy French fries, a loaded baked potato, or coleslaw. These sides complement the bold flavors and turn the wings into a complete meal. A simple green salad can also work if you want something lighter.

For a fun twist, you can use these buffalo wings in wraps, sandwiches, or even tacos. Toss them in a tortilla with lettuce and cheese, or serve them over rice for a buffalo-style rice bowl. The possibilities are endless, making them a versatile dish that you can enjoy in different ways.

How to Store Leftovers?

If you have leftover buffalo wings, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the air fryer at 375°F for about 5 minutes to restore the crispiness without drying them out.

Avoid microwaving them, as it can make them soggy. If you need to freeze them, place the wings on a baking sheet first, freeze them individually, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the air fryer at 380°F for 8-10 minutes.

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen wings? Yes, but thaw them first and pat them dry for best results.
2. What’s the best hot sauce for buffalo wings? Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice, but any cayenne-based sauce works.
3. Do I need to add oil? No, the wings have natural fat that crisps up in the air fryer.
4. How do I make them spicier? Add extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
5. Can I use boneless wings? Yes, but they may cook faster, so reduce the cooking time.
6. Why use baking powder? It helps draw moisture out of the skin, making the wings extra crispy.
7. Can I bake them instead? Yes, bake at 400°F for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
8. How do I prevent wings from sticking to the basket? Lightly spray the basket with cooking oil before adding the wings.
9. Can I use butter alternatives? Yes, ghee or plant-based butter works well.
10. What if I don’t have an air fryer? You can fry them in oil or bake them, but the texture will be different.

Conclusion

This Air Fryer Buffalo Wings recipe is a game-changer for wing lovers who want crispy, flavorful wings without deep-frying. They’re quick, easy, and packed with bold buffalo flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they are sure to be a crowd favorite.

Try them today and enjoy crispy, spicy wings with less oil and all the taste!