Smoky Paprika Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Savor the bold, smoky flavors of these air fryer chicken wings, perfectly seasoned with paprika and spices. Crispy on the outside, juicy inside, they’re quick to make and ideal for game days, parties, or a flavorful weeknight treat. Enjoy a healthier twist on classic wings without sacrificing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Smoky Paprika Air Fryer Chicken Wings are a game-changer for wing lovers! The air fryer delivers that coveted crispy texture without the mess and calories of deep frying. The smoky paprika seasoning blend creates a rich, savory flavor that’s both bold and addictive, making every bite a delight. This recipe is quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party or craving a spicy snack, these wings are sure to impress with minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction. Plus, they’re customizable—adjust the spice level to suit your taste!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Pat Wings Dry: Ensure wings are thoroughly dried with paper towels before seasoning to achieve maximum crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
• Shake the Basket: Halfway through cooking, shake or flip the wings for even browning and crispiness.
• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm wings reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• Rest Before Serving: Let wings rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to lock in juices.

Yield: Serves 4

Smoky Paprika Air Fryer Chicken Wings

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Crispy, smoky paprika air fryer chicken wings—quick, healthy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for game days or snacks!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 25 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp baking powder (aluminum-free)
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep the Wings: Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This ensures crispy skin.
2. Season the Wings: In a large bowl, toss wings with olive oil until evenly coated.
3. Add Dry Rub: Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, baking powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Sprinkle over wings and toss to coat evenly.
4. Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
5. Arrange Wings: Place wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
6. Cook First Side: Air fry for 12 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping wings halfway for even cooking.
7. Finish Cooking: Continue air frying for 10-13 minutes until wings are golden and crispy, reaching 165°F internally.
8. Rest the Wings: Transfer wings to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes to retain juiciness.
9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
10. Enjoy!: Pair with celery sticks, ranch, or blue cheese dip for the ultimate wing experience.

Notes

• Adjust cayenne pepper for milder or spicier wings based on your preference.
• Ensure baking powder is aluminum-free to avoid a metallic taste.
• For extra flavor, marinate wings in the seasoning mix for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Clean the air fryer basket immediately after cooling to prevent stuck-on residue.

Nutrition Information

Yield

4

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 806Total Fat 60gSaturated Fat 21gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 35gCholesterol 191mgSodium 1199mgCarbohydrates 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: Use fresh or fully thawed wings, split into drumettes and flats for even cooking. Pat dry to ensure crispiness.
• Smoked Paprika: The star of the dish, smoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavor. Opt for high-quality brands for the best taste.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These enhance savory notes, complementing the paprika’s boldness.
• Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and promotes browning. Substitute with avocado oil if preferred.
• Cayenne Pepper: Adds a mild kick; adjust to your spice tolerance. Freshly ground black pepper also boosts flavor.
• Baking Powder: A secret for ultra-crispy wings, it draws moisture from the skin during cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spice Level: Swap cayenne for chili powder for milder heat or add hot sauce for extra spice.
• Seasoning Alternatives: Try cumin or chipotle powder instead of smoked paprika for a different smoky profile.
• Oil Options: Use melted butter for richer flavor or grapeseed oil for a neutral taste.
• Dietary Needs: For gluten-free, ensure baking powder is gluten-free. For keto, skip honey if using a glaze.
• Sweet Twist: Toss cooked wings in a mix of honey and hot sauce for sweet-spicy balance.
• Herb Infusion: Add dried oregano or thyme to the seasoning for an earthy, aromatic touch.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store cooked wings in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked wings in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating Tip: Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy wings; use the air fryer or oven for best results.

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