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Turn your air fryer into a wing factory with this no-fuss buffalo wings approach that gives you juicy, crunchy wings every single time. This simple method produces perfectly seasoned wings with that buttery hot sauce coating we all crave, beating restaurant versions while saving you money and time at home.
After trying tons of versions, I found that keeping things simple and nailing the basics makes the most authentic buffalo wing experience, letting those tried-and-true flavors do the talking.
Key Ingredients
New chicken wings make for extra juicy bites
Olive oil creates that crispy outer layer
Frank's hot sauce brings that can't-miss taste
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Actual butter makes the sauce perfectly balanced
Plenty of seasoning builds rich flavor
Wing-Making Steps
Add plenty of salt and pepper all over.
Brush with a thin layer of olive oil for crispiness.
Lay them out so they don't touch each other.
Mix your hot sauce with melted butter.
Air fry until they look golden brown.
Coat completely in your buffalo mixture.
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I've learned from making wings for years that giving them space and watching the temperature is what makes buffalo wings perfectly crunchy.
Tasty Serving Suggestions
Make these wings the star of your game day feast by pairing them with classic sides. Whip up some homemade ranch or blue cheese dip for cooling contrast. Don't forget to add some fresh celery and carrot sticks on the plate for that refreshing crunch that balances the hot wings.
Flavor Twists
Change up these wings to suit different tastes around the table. Mix in some brown sugar or honey for a sweet kick, or throw in smoked paprika for a bit of smoky goodness. Play with the butter to hot sauce mix to make them milder or spicier, so everyone gets wings just how they like them.
Keeping Leftovers
Your wings will stay crunchy if you put them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Want them hot again? Pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, but check them often. I wouldn't freeze them if you can help it, but if you must, thaw them fully before heating.
Air Fryer Tricks
Get the best wings from your air fryer with these handy tricks:
- Get your air fryer nice and hot first
- Don't stuff too many wings in at once
- Flip the wings halfway through
- Know that each air fryer runs differently
- Grab some tongs for easy handling
Expert Advice
Don't skimp on seasonings before cooking
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Stick with Frank's sauce for the real deal
Let your wings cool off a bit after cooking
I went from doubting air fryer wings to making them better than my local sports bar. Just remember, awesome wings come down to good technique and quality stuff, making game day treats that folks will always want more of.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do you get them crispy?
- Make sure wings are thoroughly dried and give them space in the air fryer.
- → What if you're cooking them in rounds?
- Divide them into smaller batches to keep the crunchiness intact.
- → Which hot sauce works best?
- Grab Frank's Red Hot Original to nail the classic taste.
- → What's the best way to serve these?
- Serve right away with celery sticks and either ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- → Do cooking times vary?
- For smaller wings or hotter air fryers, check a bit sooner.