Who doesn’t love buffalo wings? Seriously, they’re like the ultimate party food! And these air fryer buffalo wings? Total game-changer. You get that same amazing flavor and crispy skin, but without all the deep-fried guilt. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll never go back. This recipe gives you unbelievably crispy wings and a crazy-good buffalo sauce.

I used to only make buffalo wings for the Super Bowl, right? But now, with the air fryer, I can whip up a batch any time the craving hits. Plus, it’s way easier than dealing with a pot of hot oil. Even if you’re a total beginner in the kitchen, you can totally nail this recipe. Seriously, it’s almost impossible to mess up. So, ditch the takeout menu and get ready for the best air fryer buffalo wings you’ve ever had!

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Okay, so why should you even bother making these air fryer buffalo wings? Let me tell you, there are a TON of reasons. I mean, besides the fact that they taste like pure heaven, they’re also super convenient. Here’s the lowdown:

Quick and Easy Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Seriously fast! From fridge to table in under an hour. Plus, the steps are so simple, even your kids could probably make ’em (with supervision, of course!).

Crispy Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Forget soggy wings! The air fryer makes them unbelievably crispy, almost like they’re deep-fried… but without all the grease. You get that perfect crunch every single time.

Flavorful Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

That buffalo sauce? Forget about it! It’s the perfect blend of spicy, tangy, and buttery. You can totally adjust the heat level to your liking, too. More on that later!

Healthier Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Way less oil than traditional frying. You still get that amazing flavor, but without the guilt. It’s a win-win!

Perfect for Game Day and Parties

Need an appetizer that everyone will love? These air fryer buffalo wings are always a hit. They’re perfect for game day, parties, or even just a fun family dinner. Trust me, they’ll disappear fast!

Ingredients for Your Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Alright, let’s talk ingredients! Good news: you probably have most of this stuff in your pantry already. But using quality ingredients? Makes a HUGE difference. Here’s what you’ll need for the most amazing air fryer buffalo wings ever:

Chicken Wings

You’ll want about 16 whole wings, give or take. That’s usually around 32 flats and drumettes when they’re separated. Fresh or thawed, doesn’t matter too much.

Smoked Paprika

Two teaspoons of this stuff. Don’t skimp! It adds such a smoky depth. Regular paprika works in a pinch, but trust me, smoked is the way to go.

Garlic Powder

A teaspoon and a half. Not garlic salt, okay? We’re controlling the salt levels here!

Onion Powder

Same deal as the garlic powder – a teaspoon and a half. It just adds a little somethin’ somethin’.

Dried Thyme

Just one teaspoon. It might seem like a small amount, but it really brightens things up.

Black Pepper

Half a teaspoon. Freshly ground is always best, if you’ve got it!

Butter

Half a stick, melted. Unsalted is my preference, but salted works too. Just maybe ease up on any extra salt later.

Frank’s Hot Sauce

Half a cup! This is the key to that classic buffalo wing flavor. I’m a Frank’s girl through and through, but use your fave!

Ken’s Chunky Blue Cheese Dressing

Half a cup of this, too. I’m telling you, Ken’s is the BEST. But if you’re a ranch person? I won’t judge. Too much.

Crumbled Blue Cheese or Gorgonzola

Okay, this is optional, but I highly recommend it! Three tablespoons of crumbled blue cheese or gorgonzola stirred RIGHT into the dressing? *Chef’s kiss*!

How To Make Air Fryer Buffalo Wings: Step-by-Step Instructions

Okay, friend, ready to make some magic? Here’s how we turn plain ol’ chicken wings into the *crispiest*, most flavorful air fryer buffalo wings you’ve ever tasted. Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through it. Promise!

Preparing the Chicken Wings for Air Frying

First things first: chicken! Now, some people skip this, but I like to give my wings a quick rinse under cold water. Just feels cleaner, you know? Then, pat them *completely* dry with paper towels. Seriously, the drier they are, the crispier they’ll get in the air fryer. Trust me on this one!

And hey, pro tip: after handling raw chicken, give your sink and countertops a good scrub with some soap and hot water. Safety first, always!

Marinating the Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Now for the fun part: flavor! In a big bowl, toss those wings with the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and black pepper. Get ’em all coated evenly. Don’t be shy!

Now, here’s where patience comes in. You *could* air fry them right away, but for the best flavor? Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes. Or, even better, pop ’em in the fridge overnight. The longer they sit, the more that flavor soaks in. Mmm!

Air Frying the Buffalo Wings to Perfection

Alright, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (that’s about 200 degrees Celsius). Now, don’t overcrowd the basket! You’ll want to cook the wings in batches, leaving a little space between them so the air can circulate. I can usually fit about 16-18 wings in my air fryer at a time.

Air fry them for 22-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. 25 minutes will give you super crispy wings, while 22 minutes will be a little juicier. It depends on your air fryer and how you like ’em! If you’re making a big batch, keep the cooked wings warm in a low oven (around 170 degrees Fahrenheit) until everything’s ready. Or, just cook and serve in batches – that works too!

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Making the Buffalo Wing Sauce

While the wings are cooking, let’s make that glorious buffalo sauce! Just melt half a stick of butter (I use the microwave – quick and easy!) and whisk it together with half a cup of Frank’s hot sauce. Keep whisking until it’s smooth and emulsified. This is where the magic happens, folks!

Serving Your Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Once the wings are cooked to crispy perfection, toss them in a big bowl with that amazing buffalo sauce. Use a wooden spoon or tongs to get them all coated evenly. Be careful, they might splatter a bit! (That’s why I always wear an apron.) If needed, do this in batches so they are easier to toss. Serve immediately with a side of Ken’s blue cheese dressing (or ranch, if you must!). And there you have it: perfect air fryer buffalo wings that’ll disappear in minutes! Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Wanna take your air fryer buffalo wings from “good” to “OMG amazing”? Of course, you do! Here are a few of my go-to secrets for guaranteed crispy, flavorful wings every single time:

Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer for crispier Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

This is HUGE, you guys. Seriously, don’t cram all the wings in at once! They need space for the hot air to circulate and get ’em crispy. If they’re too close together, they’ll just steam. And nobody wants steamed wings! Cook in batches, trust me.

Adjust Cooking Time Based on Your Air Fryer

Not all air fryers are created equal! Some run hotter than others. So, keep an eye on your wings and adjust the cooking time as needed. Start checking for doneness around 20 minutes, and go from there. You’re looking for that golden-brown, crispy perfection!

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Pat the Wings Dry Before Seasoning For better Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Remember when I said drying the wings was important? I meant it! Excess moisture is the enemy of crispy wings. So, pat ’em dry *before* you season them. It makes a big difference, promise!

Marinate for Maximum Flavor in Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Don’t skip the marinating step! It’s tempting to rush things, but letting those wings soak up all that flavor is what makes them truly special. Overnight is best, but even 30 minutes will help. You won’t regret it!

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions for Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Okay, so maybe you’re out of Frank’s, or you’re not a blue cheese fan (gasp!). No worries! These air fryer buffalo wings are super adaptable. Here are a few swaps you can make:

Hot Sauce Substitutions for Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Don’t have Frank’s? No problem! Crystal hot sauce is a great substitute for a milder flavor. Or, if you want to kick things up a notch, try using Tabasco or even some chili garlic sauce for an extra punch!

Blue Cheese Dressing Alternatives for Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Okay, I know blue cheese isn’t for everyone (even though it *should* be!). If you’re not a fan, ranch dressing is a classic alternative. Or, try a creamy avocado dip for something a little different!

Spice Level Adjustments for Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Too spicy? Use less hot sauce and add a little more melted butter to the sauce. Not spicy enough? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Taste as you go and find your perfect level of heat!

Serving Suggestions for Your Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

So, you’ve got a pile of crispy, saucy air fryer buffalo wings… what do you serve with ’em? Here are a couple ideas to make it a complete meal!

Classic Sides for Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

You can’t go wrong with the classics! Celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a big bowl of blue cheese dressing (or ranch, if you must!) are the perfect cool and crunchy contrast to those spicy wings.

Heartier Options to Compliment Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Want something a little more substantial? Fries, onion rings, or even a simple side salad are all great choices. Trust me, everyone will be happy!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Got questions about making the *perfect* air fryer buffalo wings? I got you! Here are some of the most common questions I get asked, so you can nail this recipe every single time.

Can I use frozen wings for Air Fryer Buffalo Wings?

Yep, you totally can! But here’s the deal: you *absolutely* need to thaw them completely first. Otherwise, they’ll cook unevenly and end up soggy. Nobody wants that! Once they’re thawed, pat them super dry before seasoning.

How do I make my Air Fryer Buffalo Wings crispier?

Ah, the million-dollar question! First, make sure those wings are bone dry before you start. Second, don’t overcrowd the air fryer! Third, you can try cooking them at a *slightly* higher temperature (like 410-415°F), but keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn!

Can I make Air Fryer Buffalo Wings ahead of time?

Sure thing! You can definitely cook the wings ahead of time and then reheat them when you’re ready to serve. But honestly? They’re always best served fresh, straight from the air fryer. If you do make them ahead, store the wings and the sauce separately, and then toss them together right before serving.

What is the Best Temperature to Cook Air Fryer Buffalo Wings?

I generally recommend 400 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s the sweet spot for getting them cooked through and crispy on the outside. But again, keep an eye on them, because every air fryer is a little different!

Storage and Reheating Instructions for Leftover Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Okay, so you *somehow* managed to not eat all of your air fryer buffalo wings? Color me impressed! Here’s how to keep ’em fresh and delicious for later:

Storing Leftover Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Pop those leftover wings in an airtight container and stash ’em in the fridge. They’ll be good for about 3-4 days, but let’s be real, they probably won’t last that long!

Reheating Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

Wanna get ’em crispy again? The air fryer is your best bet! Just toss them back in for a few minutes until they’re heated through and crispy. You can also use the oven or even the microwave in a pinch, but they won’t be quite as crispy. Just sayin’!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Heads up! I’m not a nutritionist, so any nutrition info here is just a rough estimate. It’ll vary depending on the exact ingredients and brands you use, okay?

Enjoy Your Homemade Air Fryer Buffalo Wings – Leave a Review!

Alright! Give these air fryer buffalo wings a try, and then come back and let me know what you think! Leave a comment or rating – I wanna hear all about it! Thanks for trying my recipe!