Air Fryer Nashville Hot Wings
Description:
These Nashville Hot Wings are crispy, spicy, and packed with flavor — all made in the air fryer for a healthier twist without losing any crunch. The wings are coated in a cayenne-spiced butter sauce, giving that signature fiery kick of Nashville hot chicken. Perfect for game day, parties, or a spicy snack craving!
Ingredients:
For the Wings:
2 lbs (900g) chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp baking powder (helps crispiness)
For the Nashville Hot Sauce:
4 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
1 tsp brown sugar
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp chili powder
Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish:
Pickles
Celery sticks
Ranch or blue cheese dressing
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Wings
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels (removes excess moisture for crispiness).
In a large bowl, toss wings with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and baking powder until evenly coated.
Step 2: Preheat Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Air Fry the Wings
Arrange wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding.
Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Wings should be golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Make the Nashville Hot Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add cayenne, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, and salt. Stir until smooth and fragrant (about 2 minutes).
Taste and adjust spice level if needed.
Step 5: Coat the Wings
Place the cooked wings in a large bowl.
Pour the spicy butter sauce over wings and toss to coat evenly.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot with pickles, celery sticks, and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Timing:
Prep: 10 minutes
Air Frying: 25-30 minutes
Sauce Prep & Tossing: 5 minutes
Total Time: ~40-45 minutes
Tips & Q&A:
Q1: Can I make these less spicy?
A1: Reduce cayenne pepper or remove the chili powder. You can still get smoky flavor from paprika.
Q2: Can I bake these instead of air frying?
A2: Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway. They won’t be as crispy as air fryer wings but still tasty.
Q3: How do I make the wings extra crispy?
A3: Pat dry thoroughly, use baking powder, and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Q4: Can I double the recipe?
A4: Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding for optimal crispiness.
Q5: Can I use frozen wings?
A5: Yes, but cook 5-7 minutes longer and make sure they’re fully thawed for even coating of the Sauce