Cajun-Style Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Savor the bold, smoky, and spicy flavors of Cajun-Style Air Fryer Chicken Wings! Crispy on the outside, juicy inside, these wings are perfect for game days or casual gatherings. Quick to prepare and healthier than deep-fried, they’re a crowd-pleaser that delivers authentic Louisiana flair in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cajun-Style Air Fryer Chicken Wings are a must-try for anyone who craves bold, zesty flavors with minimal effort. The air fryer delivers perfectly crispy wings without the mess or extra calories of deep-frying, making them a healthier indulgence. The homemade Cajun seasoning blend infuses each wing with a smoky, spicy kick that’s balanced by tender, juicy meat. Whether you’re hosting a game-day party, a family dinner, or just treating yourself, these wings are versatile and universally loved. Plus, they’re ready in under 30 minutes, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying. With simple ingredients and easy cleanup, this recipe is a win for both novice and seasoned cooks.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Pat Wings Dry: Remove excess moisture with paper towels for maximum crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
• Shake the Basket: Halfway through cooking, shake or flip wings for uniform browning.
• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm wings reach 165°F internally.
• Adjust Spice Level: Reduce or increase cayenne in the Cajun seasoning to suit your taste.
• Rest Before Serving: Let wings sit for 2-3 minutes post-cooking to lock in juices.
• Preheat Air Fryer: Start with a preheated air fryer for consistent results.
• Use Parchment: Line the basket with air fryer-safe parchment for easier cleanup.

Yield: Serves 4

Cajun-Style Air Fryer Chicken Wings

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Crispy, spicy Cajun-Style Air Fryer Chicken Wings are quick, healthy, and bursting with bold Louisiana flavors for any occasion.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures they get extra crispy in the air fryer.
2. Make the Cajun Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Coat the Wings: Place wings in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the wings and toss again to evenly cover.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for 3-5 minutes for optimal cooking results.
5. Arrange Wings: Place the seasoned wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap for even cooking.
6. Cook First Side: Air fry the wings at 400°F for 10 minutes. The high heat will start crisping the skin beautifully.
7. Flip and Continue: Shake the basket or flip the wings with tongs, then cook for another 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy.
8. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If needed, cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
9. Rest the Wings: Let the wings rest for 2-3 minutes on a plate to lock in juices before serving.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or blue cheese, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

• Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level; start with less if serving kids or spice-sensitive guests.
• For extra flavor, marinate wings in the seasoning and oil mixture for 30 minutes in the fridge before cooking.
• Ensure your air fryer is clean to avoid off-flavors; check the manual for model-specific cooking tips.

Nutrition Information

Yield

4

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 807Total Fat 60gSaturated Fat 21gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 35gCholesterol 191mgSodium 1501mgCarbohydrates 26gFiber 2gSugar 1gProtein 40g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

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Ingredients Notes

• Chicken Wings (2 lbs): Fresh or thawed wings work best; split into flats and drumettes for even cooking.
• Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Helps seasoning stick and promotes crispiness; avocado oil is a good alternative.
• Paprika (1 tbsp): Adds smoky depth and vibrant color to the Cajun blend.
• Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Enhances savory flavor; use fresh minced garlic for a bolder taste.
• Onion Powder (1 tsp): Complements garlic for a balanced umami profile.
• Cayenne Pepper (1/2 tsp): Brings the heat; adjust for milder or spicier wings.
• Thyme (1 tsp): Dried thyme adds an earthy, herbaceous note typical of Cajun cuisine.
• Oregano (1 tsp): Pairs with thyme for authentic Louisiana flavor.
• Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all flavors; use kosher or sea salt for better control.
• Black Pepper (1/2 tsp): Freshly ground pepper adds a subtle kick.

Variations and Substitutions

For a twist on these Cajun-Style Air Fryer Chicken Wings, try these options to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences. Swap olive oil for melted butter for a richer taste, or use coconut oil for a slight tropical hint. If cayenne is too spicy, replace it with smoked paprika for smoky flavor without heat. For a gluten-free version, ensure all spices are certified gluten-free. Add a teaspoon of brown sugar to the seasoning for a sweet-spicy balance. For a keto-friendly option, skip any sugary additions and stick to the base recipe. If wings aren’t available, use drumsticks or thighs, adjusting cook time as needed. For a vegetarian take, try cauliflower florets coated in the same seasoning and air-fried until crispy.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store cooked wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked or raw seasoned wings in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking or reheating.
• Reheating: Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess; use the air fryer or oven at 375°F for best results.

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