Spicy Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Looking for the ultimate chicken wings recipe that’s bold, spicy, and bursting with flavor—without the deep-fryer mess? These Spicy Air Fryer Chicken Wings are crisp on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a finger-licking sweet-and-spicy glaze. Perfect for game nights, weekend gatherings, or a satisfying solo indulgence!
Made with everyday ingredients and no fuss, these wings bring restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen, using the magic of the air fryer. No oil splatters, no greasy cleanup—just crispy, golden wings packed with flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Air-fried, not deep-fried – healthier and less messy
- Bold, punchy flavors – with garlic, lemon, soy sauce, and a sweet-spicy glaze
- Crispy texture – thanks to a light flour coating and double-frying
- Quick cooking time – only 10–12 minutes in the air fryer
- Perfect for parties – or a spicy snack night
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 8–10 chicken wings (preferably with skin for extra crispiness)
- Salt – to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon freshly crushed black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 2 teaspoons spring onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce
Optional:
- 2–3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, for coating before air frying
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine salt, chopped garlic, soy sauce, oregano, lemon juice, and crushed black pepper. Add the chicken wings and toss until they are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours—this helps the flavors absorb and tenderizes the meat.
Step 2: Prep for Air Frying
After marinating, sprinkle a small amount of flour over the wings and toss gently. This light coating enhances the crispiness. You can repeat this step 2–3 times for extra crunch if desired.
Step 3: First Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for about 3 minutes. Once heated, arrange the chicken wings in a single layer in the fryer basket (avoid overcrowding). Fry for 6 minutes.
At the 3-minute mark, open the air fryer, give the wings a gentle toss, and continue cooking for the remaining time.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
While the wings are cooking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, mix chopped spring onions, vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar starts to dissolve. Then add ketchup and chili sauce. Mix until you get a smooth, rich glaze.
Step 5: Coat and Finish
After the initial 6 minutes of air frying, open the fryer and brush or toss the wings with the prepared glaze. Return them to the fryer and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the sauce begins to caramelize and stick to the wings.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the wings from the air fryer and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle with any remaining sauce or serve it on the side as a dip. Garnish with extra spring onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy the fiery crunch!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Wings
- Skin-on wings crisp up better than skinless ones.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if necessary.
- Chill the marinated wings for at least 2 hours to allow deeper flavor absorption.
- Double coat with flour if you want extra crispiness.
What to Serve With Spicy Chicken Wings
These wings pair beautifully with:
- Crisp celery or cucumber sticks
- Garlic yogurt dip or ranch dressing
- Coleslaw or a fresh green salad
- Sweet potato fries or roasted veggies
Whether you’re hosting a crowd or treating yourself, these spicy air fryer chicken wings deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Try them once, and they might just become your new go-to wing recipe!