Name: Air Fryer Honey Chicken Wings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5-2 pounds pound package chicken wings, cut into drumettes and wingettes (tips removed); 5 tablespoons salted butter (divided); 1-2 tablespoons honey garlic seasoning blend; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; ½ cup honey; 2 teaspoons soy sauce; Chopped green onions (optional garnish); Sesame seeds (optional garnish)

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Air frying has revolutionized the way we prepare our favorite finger foods, and these Air Fryer Honey Chicken Wings are no exception. With their sticky sweetness and crispy texture, they make for a delightful appetizer or an indulgent snack while watching the game. My first experience with this recipe was during a casual gathering, where these wings disappeared faster than I could serve them. The combination of honey and garlic seasoning adds a unique twist, making these wings irresistible at any occasion from weeknight dinners to celebratory parties.

Reasons to Try It

Why opt for homemade Air Fryer Honey Chicken Wings over takeout? For starters, they’re quick to prep, typically taking just over 30 minutes from your kitchen to the dinner table. They are also budget-friendly, allowing you to impress guests without breaking the bank. Plus, air frying means you can achieve that crispy finish with far less oil than traditional frying—definitely a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. These wings are perfect for game day, family brunch, or as a simple yet elegant appetizer for any festive gathering.

"These Air Fryer Honey Wings are my new go-to for parties! They’re quick, easy, and always a hit. I love that I can enjoy that crunchy texture without the guilt of deep frying!" — Happy Cook

Preparing Air Fryer Honey Chicken Wings

Fear not, making these wings is not only straightforward but also quite fun! You’ll begin by preheating your air fryer and preparing the chicken. The process entails drying the wings to ensure they become beautifully crispy, tossing them in a savory seasoning, and then air frying to perfection. While they cook, you’ll whip up a luscious honey sauce that adds that mouthwatering finish. By the time you’re finished, your kitchen will smell divine, and you’ll be ready to impress.

What You’ll Need

To create these mouthwatering wings, gather the following ingredients:

1.5-2 pound package chicken wings, cut into drumettes and wingettes (tips removed)
5 tablespoons salted butter (divided)
1-2 tablespoons honey garlic seasoning blend
1 tablespoon minced garlic
½ cup honey
2 teaspoons soy sauce
Chopped green onions (optional garnish)
Sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Note: You can easily swap the honey for maple syrup if you’re looking for a unique twist, or choose a sugar-free honey alternative to cater to dietary preferences.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Crispy Air Fryer Honey Chicken Wings garnished with sesame seeds and herbs

Preheat and Prep: First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Use a paper towel to dry the chicken wings thoroughly. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture!
Season the Wings: In a large bowl, toss the wings with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and coat them with the honey garlic seasoning blend until evenly covered.
Air Fry: Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook them for about 7-9 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If needed, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Make the Sauce: While the wings are cooking, melt the remaining butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Stir in the honey and soy sauce, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to a syrup-like consistency.
Coat and Finish: Once the wings are done cooking, dip or toss them in the honey sauce until fully coated. Return them to the air fryer for an additional 1-2 minutes to caramelize the sauce, giving them that sticky finish.
Garnish and Serve: Serve your delicious wings hot, garnished with optional chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

These Air Fryer Honey Chicken Wings are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Pair them with crisp celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for that classic touch. They also complement a variety of sides such as sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or even a light salad for a more balanced meal. For a fun twist, consider serving them with Asian-style slaw or pickled veggies to enhance the flavor profile!

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness. If you want to save them for longer, you can freeze the cooked wings for up to 3 months. Just ensure they’re tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Extra Advice

For extra crispy wings, consider patting them dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps to ensure the skin gets crunchy.
If you’re a fan of spiciness, adding a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the honey garlic seasoning will give these wings an exciting kick.
Don’t rush the sauce-making process; allowing it to simmer until thick gives it a richer flavor.

Creative Twists

Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Instead of honey garlic, try lemon-pepper seasoning for a zesty flavor, or buffalo seasoning for a spicy kick. If you’re looking for a more savory twist, you can incorporate a dash of smoked paprika into the rub for a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the honey sauce.

Common Questions

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?
Yes! You can bake them in the oven at 425°F for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What can I substitute if I don’t have honey?
Maple syrup or agave syrup can be great alternatives for a similar sweetness.
How do I know when my chicken wings are done?
Always check the internal temperature; wings should reach 165°F to be safe for consumption.