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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings with Dry Rub

Ultra-crispy air fryer chicken wings coated in a bold, smoky dry rub—no sauce needed. Crunchy, flavorful, and ready in under 25 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Appetizer, Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310

Ingredients
  

Chicken Wings
  • 2 lbs chicken wings split into flats and drums
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp baking powder NOT baking soda
Dry Rub
  • 1 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika optional
  • 1 tsp brown sugar optional

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Pat wings dry with paper towels. Transfer to a mixing bowl.
  2. Toss wings with olive oil and baking powder until coated.
  3. Mix all dry rub ingredients in a small bowl.
  4. Coat wings evenly with the dry rub mixture.
  5. Place wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  6. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.
  7. Serve immediately while crispy.

Notes

For extra heat, add more cayenne. For smokier flavor, increase smoked paprika.