Craving crispy, flavorful chicken wings without all the grease? 🍗 This easy air fryer dry rub chicken wings recipe is the perfect solution! Whether you’re prepping for game day, a party, or just a quick weeknight dinner, this guide will walk you through everything you need to make crispy, juicy wings that are packed with flavor—without deep frying.
🧂 Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Dry Rub Wings
Healthier than deep-fried wings
Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
Customizable seasoning with endless flavor variations
Perfectly crispy texture using little to no oil
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
Chicken Wings
2 lbs chicken wings (split at the joint, tips removed)
1 tbsp olive oil
Basic Dry Rub
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
🔥 Optional Add-Ins:
Smoked paprika for a BBQ twist
Brown sugar for sweet heat
Lemon zest for a citrus punch
Dried herbs (thyme, oregano) for depth
🍽️ How to Make Dry Rub Chicken Wings in the Air Fryer
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for crispiness.
Toss wings in a large bowl with olive oil.
Step 2: Apply the Dry Rub
Mix all dry rub ingredients in a small bowl.
Sprinkle seasoning over the wings and toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Place wings in a single layer in the basket (avoid overcrowding).
Cook for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
✅ Pro Tip: For extra crispy wings, increase the temp to 400°F for the last 5 minutes.
🍗 Serving Suggestions
Pair your dry rub wings with:
Classic dips like ranch, blue cheese, or spicy mayo
Fresh sides like celery, carrots, or coleslaw
Savory carbs like fries, mac and cheese, or cornbread
🧪 Flavor Variations to Try
| Flavor Theme | Add to Dry Rub |
|---|---|
| Sweet & Spicy | 1 tbsp brown sugar + ½ tsp chili powder |
| Smoky BBQ | 1 tsp smoked paprika + ½ tsp cumin |
| Asian-Inspired | 1 tsp Chinese 5 spice + dash of sesame oil |
| Lemon Pepper | 1 tsp lemon zest + 1 tsp cracked black pepper |
🔄 Make Ahead & Storage Tips
Make ahead: Season the wings and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
Reheat: Pop them back into the air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes.
✅ Tips for Crispy, Flavorful Wings Every Time
Pat wings completely dry before seasoning.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
Flip halfway through cooking for even browning.
Preheat your air fryer for best texture.
❓FAQ: Air Fryer Dry Rub Chicken Wings
How long do you cook dry rub chicken wings in the air fryer?
Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. For crispier skin, increase the temp to 400°F for the last 5 minutes.
What’s the secret to crispy air fryer wings?
Start with dry wings, use a small amount of oil, preheat the air fryer, and avoid overcrowding. Dry wings = crispy wings!
Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, but thaw them first and pat dry before applying the rub for the best results.
Can I bake these wings instead?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a wire rack over a baking sheet for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway.
What’s the best dry rub for wings?
A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a little cayenne is a great base. You can add your favorite spices to customize it.
Are air fryer chicken wings healthy?
Yes! They use significantly less oil than deep frying, resulting in fewer calories and less fat—while still being deliciously crispy.
🏁 Final Thoughts
These air fryer dry rub chicken wings are your go-to for a quick, flavorful, and guilt-free snack or meal. With endless ways to season and serve, they’re a hit for every occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or just feeding your family, you’ll love the crispy texture and bold flavor that only a dry rub can deliver—all thanks to your air fryer!
Ready to get cooking? Preheat that air fryer and dive into your new favorite wing recipe!
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