12 Air Fryer Chicken Wings for the Ultimate Game Night

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For the ultimate game night, you can't go wrong with 12 air fryer chicken wings! Try classic Buffalo for that spicy kick, sweet and savory honey garlic, or zesty lemon pepper to keep things exciting. Don't miss the unique flavors like Korean BBQ and spicy Cajun that'll impress your guests. Each bite's crispy texture is a delight, making them perfect for sharing. Want more delicious options and tips to elevate your feast? Let's explore further!

Classic Buffalo Chicken Wings

buffalo chicken wing recipe

There's nothing quite like the deliciously spicy and tangy flavor of classic Buffalo chicken wings to make your game night unforgettable. With the convenience of an air fryer, you can whip up a batch that's perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside without the guilt of deep-frying.

Whether you're cheering for your favorite team or just enjoying a night with friends, serving up these wings will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Making Buffalo chicken wings isn't only easy but also incredibly satisfying. The key lies in the seasoning and the right cooking technique. Air frying allows the wings to cook evenly and develop that coveted crunch without soaking them in oil.

You can adjust the level of heat by varying the amount of hot sauce, making these wings customizable for all palates.

  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot)
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • Celery sticks and blue cheese dressing (for serving)

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, making sure the wings are well-coated with the spices.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, and cook for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

While the wings are cooking, mix the hot sauce and melted butter in a separate bowl. Once the wings are done, toss them in the hot sauce mixture until evenly coated, then return them to the air fryer for an additional 5 minutes to crisp them up even more.

When preparing your Buffalo wings, consider making a double batch, as they tend to disappear quickly! You can also experiment with different sauces; for a milder alternative, try a honey BBQ sauce instead of traditional hot sauce.

Additionally, serving your wings with a side of celery and ranch or blue cheese dressing can help balance the heat while adding a revitalizing crunch. Always verify your wings are cooked thoroughly by checking that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Enjoy your game night!

Honey Garlic Chicken Wings

sweet and savory wings

Honey garlic chicken wings are a perfect choice for game night, providing a deliciously sweet and savory flavor that everyone will love. These wings aren't only easy to prepare but also cook quickly in an air fryer, guaranteeing you can serve your guests hot and crispy without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of honey and garlic gives them a unique glaze that elevates the taste while keeping the dish fun and relaxed, making them ideal finger food for cheering on your favorite team.

This recipe uses simple ingredients and minimal prep time, allowing you to focus on the game instead of being stuck in the kitchen. You'll be amazed at how the air fryer crisps the chicken to golden perfection while keeping them juicy and tender on the inside.

Plus, honey garlic chicken wings are versatile; feel free to adjust the sweetness or garlic levels to match your preferences, or experiment with adding a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick!

  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Chopped green onions (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

In a large bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, black pepper, and salt. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they're evenly coated in the marinade. Allow the wings to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for better flavor) in the refrigerator.

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Arrange the marinated wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, cooking for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time, until they're crispy and golden brown.

Once cooked, remove the wings and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

When cooking honey garlic chicken wings in the air fryer, be sure not to overcrowd the basket. If necessary, cook in batches to guarantee even cooking and crispiness.

Additionally, you can save some of the marinade and reduce it on the stove for a thicker glaze to drizzle on top before serving. This adds flavor and presentation, making your wings stand out even more at your game night gathering!

Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

crispy lemon pepper wings

Air fryer lemon pepper chicken wings are a surefire hit for your next game night! These wings combine crispy skin and juicy meat with a zesty burst of lemon and aromatic pepper, creating the perfect snack that's both flavorful and indulgent.

Plus, using an air fryer means you can achieve that crispy texture without the extra oil, making them a healthier option while still being incredibly satisfying.

Making lemon pepper chicken wings in an air fryer isn't only simple but also quick, allowing you to whip them up in no time.

Whether you're hosting a large gathering or enjoying a quiet game night with family, these wings will surely impress everyone. The tangy lemon paired with robust black pepper delivers a tasty twist that elevates your typical chicken wing experience.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt to taste
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Fresh lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and lemon zest until evenly coated.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they're not overcrowded.

Cook the wings for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they're golden brown and crispy.

For best results, guarantee that your chicken wings are patted dry before seasoning to enhance crispiness.

Additionally, you can adjust the lemon pepper seasoning to suit your taste; if you like it zesty, feel free to add more lemon zest or even some lemon juice before serving.

Pair your wings with your favorite dipping sauces for added flavor and enjoy a delicious treat that will keep everyone coming back for more!

Korean BBQ Chicken Wings

korean style chicken wings

Korean BBQ chicken wings are a delicious fusion of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, perfect for game night gatherings. The rich, sticky marinade, coupled with a touch of sesame aroma, elevates these crispy wings into a fan-favorite dish that everyone will be excited to devour.

An air fryer is a fantastic tool for this recipe as it creates a crispy texture without the need for deep frying, making the wings lighter and healthier while still satisfying that crunch.

When preparing Korean BBQ chicken wings, the magic lies in the marinade. A combination of soy sauce, honey, gochujang (Korean chili paste), garlic, and ginger creates a mouthwatering glaze, while the sesame oil brings depth to the flavor profile. Marinating the wings for a few hours or overnight guarantees that they soak up all the deliciousness, delivering tender meat with a beautifully caramelized exterior.

With these directions, you'll have a dish that's sure to impress your friends and family!

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken wings
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, gochujang, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and rice vinegar to create the marinade. Add the chicken wings to the marinade and mix well, making certain each wing is coated.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and arrange the marinated chicken wings in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are crispy and cooked through.

Once done, sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

For best flavor, consider letting the wings marinate overnight for deeper penetration of the flavors. Additionally, you can adjust the amount of gochujang based on your spice preference. If you enjoy a little extra heat, feel free to add some crushed red chili flakes to the marinade.

Finally, serve your wings with a side of Korean pickled radish for a revitalizing complement to balance the richness of the dish.

Spicy Cajun Chicken Wings

cajun flavored chicken wings

If you're gearing up for game night, spicy Cajun chicken wings are a must-try! These wings are bursting with flavor, bringing a delightful kick to your gathering. The blend of Cajun spices will tantalize your taste buds, making them a perfect finger food that pairs beautifully with your favorite dips.

Air frying gives these wings a crispy texture while keeping them juicy and tender on the inside, which is exactly what you want when rooting for your team.

Before you plunge into the recipe, it's important to prepare the wings properly. Patting them dry guarantees that they crisp up nicely in the air fryer, while marinating them in a zesty Cajun spice mix amplifies their flavor. Whether you're hosting a small get-together or a larger celebration, these wings will surely become a game-night favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Toss the chicken wings in a large bowl with olive oil, making sure they're well coated. In a separate bowl, mix together the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.

Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the wings and toss until evenly coated. Place the seasoned wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 390°F for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they're crispy and golden brown.

For an extra crispy finish, you can air fry the wings in batches and leave them in the air fryer for a few additional minutes after they're cooked. Additionally, serving them with a cooling dip, such as ranch or blue cheese, can help balance the heat for those who might prefer a milder flavor.

Always remember to check the internal temperature of the wings to confirm they reach 165°F for safe consumption.

Teriyaki Chicken Wings

flavorful glazed chicken wings

If you're looking for a delicious and easy way to impress your friends during game night, teriyaki chicken wings are a fantastic choice. The combination of sweet and savory flavors infused in each wing makes for a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone coming back for more.

With the use of an air fryer, you can achieve that crispy texture without the added fat of traditional frying methods, making this dish not only tasty but a bit healthier too!

Making teriyaki chicken wings is a breeze, and they cook up in a fraction of the time compared to baking. This recipe allows you to enjoy crispy wings coated in a flavorful teriyaki glaze that caramelizes beautifully during cooking.

In under 30 minutes, you can serve these succulent wings alongside your favorite dipping sauces and sides, kicking off your game night on a high note!

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ginger powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Green onions, chopped, for garnish

Toss the chicken wings in a large bowl with the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper until they're evenly coated.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and arrange the wings in a single layer in the basket. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time, until the wings are crispy and cooked through.

If desired, brush with extra teriyaki sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for more flavor.

For an extra touch, make certain to let the wings soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes before cooking, as this will enhance the flavor even further.

Additionally, you can double the recipe and cook in batches if needed, but it's important not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to guarantee they cook evenly and get that perfect crispiness.

Finally, serve the wings immediately after cooking, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your game night!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

garlic parmesan chicken wings

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings are a deliciously savory addition to any game night feast. The golden-brown, crispy skin pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of garlic and cheese, making these wings irresistible.

They're simple to prepare and cook quickly in an air fryer, yielding a healthier option without sacrificing any of the bold flavors you crave. Whether you're cheering for your favorite team or enjoying a night in with friends, these wings are sure to be a hit.

Using the air fryer not only guarantees that the wings are crispy but also helps to reduce excess oil, making them a lighter alternative to traditional frying methods. You can customize the amount of garlic and parmesan cheese to suit your taste, and experimenting with additional seasonings can elevate these wings to your own unique masterpiece.

Get ready to impress your guests with this easy yet delicious recipe!

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Season the chicken wings with olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl, assuring that they're well coated.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Once the wings are crispy and golden brown, remove them from the air fryer and toss with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch.

To maximize the crispiness of your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; cooking in batches is often best.

You can also adjust the garlic's intensity by adding more or less to suit your preference, and considering the type of Parmesan you use can also influence the flavor. For added depth, try sprinkling some red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, or serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for an extra treat.

BBQ Ranch Chicken Wings

spicy barbecue chicken wings

When it comes to game night, there's nothing quite like the sizzling sound of chicken wings cooking in the air fryer. BBQ ranch chicken wings blend the smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce with the creamy, tangy flavor of ranch dressing, making them a crowd-pleasing appetizer that everyone will love.

Not only are they easy to prepare, but cooking them in an air fryer results in a crispy, delectable skin without the guilt of traditional frying. Perfect for sharing or enjoying solo while you cheer on your team, these wings are a must-try.

To make your game night even more exciting, you can prep these BBQ ranch chicken wings ahead of time. Marinating the wings in your favorite barbecue sauce and ranch dressing will deepen the flavor and guarantee every bite is packed with taste.

Whether you're hosting friends or just indulging in a cozy night at home, these wings will elevate your experience, bringing both flavor and fun to the table.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Toss the chicken wings in olive oil and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Marinate the wings in the BBQ sauce and ranch dressing mixture for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and arrange the wings in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are crispy and cooked through.

For extra crispy wings, you can give them an additional 5 minutes at the end of cooking. Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; if necessary, cook the wings in batches to guarantee they cook evenly.

Experiment with different BBQ and ranch dressings to find your favorite flavor combinations. Don't forget to serve with extra ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce on the side for an added treat!

Orange Sriracha Chicken Wings

spicy citrus flavored chicken wings

If you're striving to elevate your game night menu, seek no more than Orange Sriracha Chicken Wings. These wings combine the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, creating a flavor explosion that will leave your guests craving more.

The air fryer method not only makes cooking a breeze but also guarantees that the wings come out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them the ultimate finger food for your sporting event celebrations.

This recipe is straightforward, allowing you to whip up a delicious batch in no time. With the fragrant notes of fresh orange juice mingling with the heat of sriracha, you'll find yourself returning to this crowd-pleaser time and time again. Gather your friends, fire up the air fryer, and get ready for a mouthwatering experience.

  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)

In a large bowl, mix together the orange juice, sriracha sauce, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade. Add the chicken wings and toss until they're well coated.

Let the wings marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature (or up to 2 hours in the fridge for an even deeper flavor). Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

Once heated, place the marinated wings in the air fryer basket, ensuring they're in a single layer. Cook for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.

To make the most of your Orange Sriracha Chicken Wings, consider double-coating them in the marinade just before cooking. This enhances the flavor and creates a delicious glaze.

Also, monitor the cooking time to prevent overcooking, which can lead to dry wings. Pair these mouthwatering wings with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping, and serve with celery and carrot sticks to balance the heat. Enjoy the scrumptious flavors while cheering for your favorite team!

Applewood Smoked Chicken Wings

smoky flavored chicken wings

If you're looking for a delicious way to elevate your game night, Applewood smoked chicken wings are the perfect choice. The irresistible smoky flavor paired with crispy skin makes these wings a crowd-pleaser. By using an air fryer, you can achieve that perfect crispness without the excess oil, allowing you to indulge guilt-free while still enjoying the quintessential taste of smoked wings.

To get started, select fresh chicken wings and marinate them in a delightful blend of spices and applewood smoke seasoning. The air fryer circulates hot air around the wings, guaranteeing that they cook evenly and develop a golden brown exterior. Pair these wings with your favorite dipping sauce and prepare for your friends and family to swoon over this game night favorite.

  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • 2 tablespoons applewood smoked seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray

In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings with applewood smoked seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the wings are evenly coated with the spice blend.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), lightly spray the basket with cooking spray, and arrange the wings in a single layer, making sure they aren't overcrowded. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they're crispy and golden brown.

To guarantee your wings achieve the perfect smoky flavor, consider adding wood chips designed for smoking to your air fryer if it's compatible. Additionally, for a spicier kick, you can mix in some cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce into the marinade.

Finally, always check that the internal temperature of the wings reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Enjoy these wings hot, and be prepared for everyone to go back for seconds!

Chipotle Lime Chicken Wings

spicy citrus flavored chicken wings

Get ready to spice up your game night with these Chipotle Lime Chicken Wings! The combination of smoky chipotle and tangy lime creates a perfect balance that will have everyone reaching for more.

These wings aren't only simple to make in the air fryer, but they also pack a flavor punch that will elevate any gathering. No need for deep frying—just toss them in your air fryer for that crispy goodness without the excess oil.

These juicy wings are marinated to perfection, guaranteeing that each bite is bursting with flavor. The chipotle adds a delightful heat, while the lime juice brightens up the dish, making it ideal for those who love a little kick in their snacks. Serve them up with your favorite dipping sauce, and you're all set for a night of cheering and celebration.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chipotle powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Toss the chicken wings in a large bowl with olive oil, chipotle powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, lime juice, and lime zest until well coated.

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are crispy and fully cooked through.

For best results, make sure to pat the chicken wings dry before marinating to guarantee they get crispy in the air fryer.

If you're looking to enhance the flavor even more, marinate the wings for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. You can also adjust the amount of chipotle powder based on your preferred spice level.

Enjoy your game night with these delicious wings!

Maple Mustard Chicken Wings

maple glazed chicken wings

If you're searching for a winning appetizer to impress your friends during game night, search no more than these Maple Mustard Chicken Wings. Combining the sweetness of maple syrup with the tangy kick of mustard, this recipe creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that's sure to score big points.

The best part? They're crispy, delicious, and can be made effortlessly in your air fryer, giving you more time to enjoy the game without the hassle of frying in oil. Getting that perfect crispy skin has never been easier, and thanks to the air fryer, you can achieve it with much less mess and calories than traditional frying methods.

With a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, these chicken wings are the perfect contrast to your usual snacks and will have everyone reaching for more. Plus, they take only a fraction of the time to prepare compared to other methods, making them an ideal choice for game night.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

To cook the chicken wings, first, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). In a large bowl, mix together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss them in the mixture until they're well coated. Place the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.

For an extra touch, you can marinate the wings in the maple mustard mixture for at least an hour or even overnight in the refrigerator to amplify the flavor. Always check the internal temperature of the chicken wings to verify they reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Finally, adjust cooking times based on your air fryer model, as some may cook faster or slower than others.