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Foolproof Extra Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings with Baking Powder Dry Rub

A white plate piled high with golden brown, crispy air fryer chicken wings ready to eat.

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Discover the secret to achieving perfectly crunchy, golden chicken wings in your air fryer. This simple recipe uses a baking powder dry rub to deliver maximum crispiness without deep frying, making them ideal for game day or a quick weeknight appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free is best for crispiness)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels. This step is crucial for crispiness.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper to create the dry rub.
  3. Add the dried chicken wings to the bowl. Toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated with the spice and baking powder mixture.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit (195 degrees Celsius).
  5. Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary to allow air circulation.
  6. Air fry for 20 minutes.
  7. After 20 minutes, carefully flip the wings. Increase the air fryer temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
  8. Continue to cook for another 5 to 8 minutes, or until the wings are deeply golden brown and exceptionally crispy.
  9. Remove from the air fryer and serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.

Notes

  • The baking powder reacts with the chicken skin, raising the pH level, which helps break down proteins and promotes superior browning and crunch.
  • For an even juicier inside, you can let the seasoned wings rest on a wire rack in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or up to overnight, before cooking.
  • If you prefer a sauced wing, toss the crispy wings in your favorite sauce immediately after they come out of the air fryer.

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