Easy Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings Recipe
Crispy, golden, and bursting with flavor – these air fryer salt and pepper chicken wings are about to become your new obsession! Did you know that chicken wings were once considered scraps until Buffalo Wild Wings made them famous in 1964?
These Asian-inspired wings deliver the perfect crunch without the guilt of deep frying. Ready in just 25 minutes, they’re simpler than our popular honey garlic wings and perfect for game day or family dinner. Get ready to impress!
What Are Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings?
Ever wondered why these wings have such a fancy name? Salt and pepper chicken wings aren’t just seasoned with salt and pepper – they’re a Cantonese-style dish featuring crispy chicken coated in aromatic spices! Legend says a clever chef in Hong Kong created this when he ran out of sauce ingredients.
As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these wings prove it! Ready to master this restaurant favorite at home?
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings Recipe
Restaurant-Quality Crispiness at Home
These wings deliver that coveted crispy exterior and juicy interior that rivals your favorite takeout spot. The air fryer creates the perfect golden crust while keeping the meat tender and flavorful inside.
Budget-Friendly Family Favorite
Making these wings at home costs about 60% less than ordering from restaurants. A family of four can enjoy this delicious meal for under $12, compared to $30+ at most establishments.
Aromatic Spice Blend Magic
The combination of white pepper, five-spice powder, and fresh aromatics creates an addictive flavor profile. Unlike our classic buffalo wings, these offer a sophisticated taste with hints of garlic, ginger, and chilies that dance on your palate.
Ready to transform your kitchen into a wing paradise? Let’s dive into this foolproof recipe!
How to Make Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings
Quick Overview
This recipe delivers restaurant-quality wings with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The secret lies in the double-cooking method and aromatic spice blend.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: 4 people
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings
For the Wings:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Salt and Pepper Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
For the Aromatics:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Wings Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Toss wings with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl until evenly coated.
Step 2: Preheat Your Air Fryer Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes. This ensures even cooking from the start.
Step 3: First Cook Place wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 4: Increase Temperature Increase temperature to 400°F (204°C) and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Prepare the Seasoning Mix While wings cook, combine sea salt, white pepper, five-spice powder, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl.
Step 6: Prepare Aromatics Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, ginger, jalapeño, and half the green onions. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 7: Final Assembly Add the hot wings to the wok with aromatics. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over wings and toss vigorously for 1-2 minutes until evenly coated.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve Transfer to serving platter and garnish with remaining green onions. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
What to Serve Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings With
These versatile wings pair beautifully with various sides and drinks:
Perfect Sides:
- Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice
- Asian-style coleslaw with sesame dressing
- Cucumber salad with rice vinegar
- Crispy noodles or lo mein
Refreshing Beverages:
- Ice-cold beer (lagers work best)
- Green tea or jasmine tea
- Fresh lime soda
- Coconut water with lime
Dipping Sauces:
- Sweet and sour sauce
- Soy sauce with chili oil
- Ranch dressing for kids
- Spicy mayo
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings
Achieving Maximum Crispiness
Always pat wings completely dry before seasoning. Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin. Let seasoned wings sit for 10 minutes before cooking to allow the cornstarch to absorb any remaining moisture.
Spice Blend Substitutions
Can’t find five-spice powder? Mix equal parts cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Sichuan peppercorns. White pepper can be substituted with black pepper, though the flavor will be less authentic.
Cooking Time Adjustments
Larger wings may need an extra 3-5 minutes. Check for doneness with a meat thermometer – internal temperature should reach 165°F. Smaller wings might be done 2-3 minutes earlier.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary. Avoid using too much oil as it prevents crisping. Don’t skip the double-temperature cooking method – it’s key for perfect texture.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Keep wings and any remaining aromatics separate to maintain texture.
Freezer Storage: Freeze cooked wings for up to 2 months in freezer-safe bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions: For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until heated through and crispy. Oven method: 375°F for 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it makes wings soggy.
Pro Reheating Tip: Sprinkle a tiny amount of water on wings before reheating to create steam, then finish at high heat for crispiness.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (4 wings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 |
| Protein | 24g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbs | 3g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 680mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes, but thaw completely first and pat extra dry. Frozen wings contain more moisture, which can prevent proper crisping.
How do I know when wings are done?
Wings should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have golden-brown, crispy skin. Juices should run clear when pierced.
Can I make these wings ahead of time?
Wings are best served immediately for maximum crispiness. However, you can prep the seasoning mix and aromatics up to 24 hours ahead.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
Bake at 425°F for 45-50 minutes, flipping once halfway through. For extra crispiness, finish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes.
Are these wings spicy?
The heat level is mild to medium. Adjust by adding more or less jalapeño, or include red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Can I use different spices?
Absolutely! Try adding Chinese five-spice, paprika, or even curry powder for different flavor profiles while keeping the salt and pepper base.
Bonus Tips for Wing Success
Temperature Control Secrets: Use a dual-probe thermometer to monitor both air fryer temperature and wing internal temperature simultaneously.
Batch Cooking Strategy: If cooking for a crowd, keep finished wings warm in a 200°F oven while preparing subsequent batches.
Flavor Variations: Try these exciting twists on the classic recipe:
- Add sesame seeds for extra crunch
- Include dried chili flakes for heat lovers
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice
- Experiment with different aromatics like lemongrass or Thai basil
Make It a Meal: Transform these wings into a complete dinner by serving over rice with stir-fried vegetables and a simple soup.
These air fryer salt and pepper chicken wings prove that restaurant-quality food is achievable in your own kitchen. With their crispy exterior, juicy interior, and complex flavor profile, they’re guaranteed to become a household favorite. Whether you’re hosting game day, planning a family dinner, or just craving something special, this recipe delivers every single time.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and reliability. Once you master the technique, you’ll find yourself making variations and experimenting with different seasonings. Remember, the key to perfect wings is patience during preparation and proper temperature control during cooking.
Happy cooking, and get ready to experience wing perfection!
