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Crispy Air Fryer Honey Garlic Chicken Wings in 20 Minutes

air fryer honey garlic chicken wings - featured image

These crispy air fryer honey garlic chicken wings are the perfect balance of sticky-sweet glaze and shatteringly crisp skin, all done in about 20 minutes. No deep frying, no mess, no fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (for thickening, if needed)
  • Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. If time allows, let them sit uncovered in the fridge for 30 minutes to dry out further.
  2. In a large bowl, combine baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Add the dried wings and toss well to coat evenly.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  4. Place the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding. Work in batches if needed.
  5. Air fry at 400°F for 12 minutes. Flip the wings with tongs, then cook for another 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
  6. While wings cook, combine honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let bubble for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. For a thicker glaze, stir in cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute.
  7. Transfer cooked wings to a clean bowl. Pour warm honey garlic glaze over the top and toss gently to coat.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, ensure wings are bone-dry before seasoning. Do not skip the baking powder—it helps create a shatteringly crisp texture. Glaze wings just before serving to maintain crispiness. If using frozen wings, thaw first to avoid steaming.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken wings, honey garlic wings, crispy wings, easy appetizer, game day food