Classic Salt and Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Crispy, juicy, and flavorful, these Classic Salt and Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Wings are perfect for game days or casual gatherings. With minimal ingredients, this easy recipe delivers golden wings with a savory, peppery kick, all cooked to perfection in the air fryer for a healthier twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These air fryer chicken wings are a crowd-pleaser, offering the perfect balance of crispy texture and bold, simple flavors. The salt and pepper seasoning enhances the natural juiciness of the wings without overwhelming them, making every bite satisfying. Using an air fryer means less oil, quicker cooking, and easy cleanup compared to traditional frying methods. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or craving a quick snack, these wings are versatile and foolproof. Plus, the recipe is customizable, allowing you to adjust the seasoning to your taste or pair it with your favorite dipping sauces.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Pat Wings Dry: Ensure wings are thoroughly dried with paper towels for maximum crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
• Shake the Basket: Shake or flip the wings halfway through cooking for even browning.
• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Season Immediately: Toss wings with seasoning right after cooking to help it stick better.
• Preheat Air Fryer: Preheating ensures even cooking and a crispier exterior.
• Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of garlic powder or cayenne for extra flavor.
• Use Fresh Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper offers a more vibrant taste than pre-ground.

Yield: Serves 4

Classic Salt and Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Print

Crispy air fryer chicken wings seasoned with salt and pepper, perfect for a quick, flavorful snack or party appetizer.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is key for crispy results.
2. Season the Wings: In a large bowl, toss wings with olive oil, ensuring an even coating. Sprinkle with cornstarch if using, for extra crunch.
3. Add Salt and Pepper: Season wings with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, tossing to coat evenly. Adjust to taste.
4. Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
5. Arrange Wings: Place wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation.
6. Cook First Side: Air fry wings for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping wings halfway through for even browning.
7. Finish Cooking: Continue cooking for another 10-12 minutes until wings are golden and crispy, reaching 165°F internally.
8. Toss Again: Transfer hot wings to a clean bowl and toss with an extra pinch of salt and pepper for bold flavor.
9. Serve Immediately: Plate wings with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or hot sauce, for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
10. Enjoy!: Dig into these crispy, juicy wings perfect for game night, parties, or a quick snack.

Notes

• Ensure wings are not touching in the air fryer to maximize crispiness.
• For extra flavor, try adding a dash of garlic powder or smoked paprika.
• Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for a classic wing experience.
• Always check internal temperature for food safety.

Nutrition Information

Yield

4

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 804Total Fat 60gSaturated Fat 21gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 35gCholesterol 191mgSodium 1232mgCarbohydrates 25gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 40g

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

Did you make this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

Ingredients Notes

• Chicken Wings: Opt for fresh or fully thawed wings, split into flats and drumettes for even cooking. Pat dry to remove excess moisture.
• Olive Oil: A light coating helps crisp the skin and allows seasoning to adhere. Substitute with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances flavor without being overly salty. Table salt works but use slightly less.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground provides a bold, aromatic kick. Adjust to taste for more or less heat.
• Optional Cornstarch: A light dusting can enhance crispiness, especially for extra crunchy wings.

Variations and Substitutions

For a spicy twist, add cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the seasoning mix. If you prefer a smoky flavor, incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder. For a gluten-free option, skip the cornstarch or use a gluten-free alternative like potato starch. You can swap olive oil for melted butter for richer flavor, though this adds calories. For a low-sodium version, reduce salt and boost flavor with garlic powder or onion powder. If you don’t have an air fryer, bake wings at 400°F for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway.

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 wings in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Tip: Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness; use the air fryer or oven instead.

Dish Gallery

Please share these Classic Salt and Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Wings with your friends and do a comment below about your feedback.

We will meet you on next article.

Until you can read, Chili Lime Air Fryer Chicken Wings