Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe

Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

This recipe for air fryer spicy chicken wings yields 4 servings. It's perfect for a quick and flavorful snack, combining a blend of spices for a savory kick. Whether you're hosting a party or preparing a simple dinner, these wings are sure to impress!

Ingredients

  • 2 teaspoons sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 pound chicken wings

Directions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 380F (190C).
  2. Step 2: In a shallow bowl, mix together the sea salt, garlic powder, mustard powder, coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper until well combined.
  3. Step 3: Dredge each chicken wing in the spice mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Place the wings into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
  4. Step 4: Cook the wings in the air fryer for approximately 30 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink at the bone and the juices run clear. You can check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer, which should read 165F (74C) when inserted near the bone.
  5. Step 5: If your wings are smaller, you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly. Once done, remove the wings from the air fryer and serve hot!

Nutrition Facts

Each serving contains the following nutritional information:

Nutrition Amount % Daily Value
Calories 381 -
Total Fat 28g 36%
Saturated Fat 10g 49%
Cholesterol 93mg 31%
Sodium 1504mg 65%
Total Carbohydrate 13g 5%
Dietary Fiber 1g 4%
Total Sugars 0g -
Protein 20g 39%
Vitamin C 3mg 4%
Calcium 30mg 2%
Iron 2mg 9%
Potassium 232mg 5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

The History of Buffalo Wings

Buffalo wings, a quintessential American snack, trace their origin to Buffalo, New York, in 1964. They were famously created at the Anchor Bar when Teressa Bellissimo deep-fried leftover chicken wings and coated them in a spicy cayenne-based sauce. Initially intended as a late-night bar snack, the wings quickly gained popularity and became a staple in American cuisine, particularly in sports bars and casual eateries. Over the decades, Buffalo wings have evolved into countless variations, yet their essencea perfect balance of heat and tangy flavorremains unchanged.

Regional Characteristics

While Buffalo wings originated in New York, regional adaptations have emerged across the United States. In the Midwest, wings often come with sweeter glazes or barbecue-style sauces. The South tends to favor spicier, heavily seasoned wings, sometimes smoked or grilled instead of fried. Coastal cities might incorporate local ingredients, like citrus or tropical peppers, to give a unique twist. Each region brings its own flair, but the classic Buffalo wing remains synonymous with the original cayenne and butter sauce, maintaining its distinct fiery and tangy profile.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Buffalo wings are often confused with other chicken wing preparations such as teriyaki wings, honey-glazed wings, or Korean fried wings. Unlike these, Buffalo wings are traditionally unbreaded and deep-fried, then tossed in a simple, spicy sauce made from hot sauce and melted butter. Teriyaki or honey-glazed wings emphasize sweetness, while Korean fried wings are double-fried for extra crispiness and coated in complex, savory sauces. The hallmark of a true Buffalo wing lies in its crisp skin, juicy interior, and the signature heat of the sauce.

Typical Serving Occasions

Buffalo wings are most commonly served in casual dining environments such as sports bars, pubs, and family restaurants. They are a favorite for game-day gatherings, parties, and social events. Typically accompanied by celery sticks and a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing, these wings serve as both an appetizer and a communal finger food. Modern variations, like air-fried versions, offer a lighter, less greasy option while preserving the classic flavor, making them popular in home kitchens and health-conscious menus.

Interesting Facts

Buffalo wings have inspired entire culinary trends, including flavored wing festivals and competitive eating contests. National Buffalo Wing Day is celebrated every July 29th in the United States, highlighting the enduring cultural impact of this dish. Interestingly, the original wings were made from leftover parts of the chicken that were considered less desirable, turning what was once waste into a beloved delicacy. Today, wings remain a symbol of American comfort food, offering endless variations while honoring their humble beginnings in Buffalo.

FAQ about Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe

Store leftover Buffalo wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the wings are cooled completely before sealing them to avoid excess moisture buildup. For best results, reheat them in the air fryer or oven to retain their crispiness.

Yes, you can freeze Buffalo wings. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the air fryer or oven directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Yes, you can prepare the spice mixture in advance. Store the dry seasoning mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3-4 weeks. This can help speed up your preparation process for future batches of Buffalo wings.

If your wings are smaller or larger than 1 pound, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Smaller wings will cook faster, while larger wings may need a few extra minutes. Always check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).

Yes, you can use frozen wings, but they will require a slightly longer cooking time. You may need to add about 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time, depending on their size. Be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).

To make these wings spicier, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some hot sauce to the seasoning mix. If you like extra heat, feel free to toss the cooked wings in a spicy buffalo sauce or drizzle them with more hot sauce before serving.

For crispy wings, make sure to arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding them. This allows the hot air to circulate evenly around each wing. You can also lightly spray the wings with cooking oil before air frying for an extra crisp finish.

Absolutely! You can customize the seasoning to your preference. For a different flavor, try using a combination of lemon pepper, BBQ seasoning, or even a teriyaki marinade. Just adjust the seasoning quantities to your taste.

The best way to know when the wings are done is by checking the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. The wings are fully cooked when they reach 165°F (74°C) at the bone. The juices should run clear, and the wings should no longer be pink at the bone.

Comments

Roger Van

02/10/2025 12:14:26 AM

I made this but it's way too salty didn't like the seasoning missed the butter and hot sauce in Buffalo wings which makes me think this shouldn't even be called a buffalo wing I was disappointed in the taste and would not make this recipe again!

Brenda Phillips

10/29/2024 10:02:35 AM

Such an easy recipe with amazing results.

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