Chicken wings are a game-day staple, a go-to party snack, and a delicious treat for any occasion. But getting that perfect crispy texture without deep frying? That’s where air fryers come in! If you’re looking for the best air fryers for chicken wings, this guide will help you find the perfect model to make crispy, juicy, and flavorful wings every time.
Below, we review the top air fryers for chicken wings, compare features, and provide a buying guide to help you make the best choice. Whether you want a compact model for small batches or a large-capacity fryer for family feasts, we’ve got you covered.
Features to Look for in an Air Fryer for Chicken Wings
If you’re a fan of crispy, juicy chicken wings, choosing the right air fryer can make all the difference. Not all models are created equal, and when it comes to cooking wings to perfection, a few key features stand out. Let’s break down what to look for!
1. Capacity and Basket Size
- Why it matters: Chicken wings need space for air to circulate around them for even cooking and crispiness.
- What to look for: A basket size of at least 4–5 quarts is ideal for cooking a family-sized batch of wings without overcrowding. If you often cook for a crowd, consider a larger 6–8 quart model.
2. Adjustable Temperature Control
- Why it matters: Wings cook best at high heat (around 380–400°F) to achieve crispy skin while keeping the inside juicy.
- What to look for: An air fryer with a wide temperature range (from 180°F to 400°F) gives you the flexibility to air fry, roast, and even reheat leftovers.
3. Even Air Circulation Technology
- Why it matters: Consistent, even cooking ensures your wings are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside — without flipping every five minutes.
- What to look for: Air fryers with “rapid air technology” or dual fans offer better circulation and more reliable results.
4. Preheat and Shake Reminder Functions
- Why it matters: Preheating helps wings cook evenly, and shaking the basket ensures every piece gets crispy.
- What to look for: Some air fryers come with automatic preheat settings and reminders to shake or flip the food midway through cooking — super handy for wings!
5. Non-Stick, Easy-to-Clean Basket
- Why it matters: Chicken wings can get messy with marinades and sauces, so easy cleanup is a must.
- What to look for: A non-stick, dishwasher-safe basket and tray make post-cooking cleanup quick and hassle-free.
6. Cooking Presets for Chicken or Air Crisp
- Why it matters: Having a dedicated “chicken” or “air crisp” preset simplifies cooking wings to perfection without guesswork.
- What to look for: Look for intuitive controls with presets for chicken, frying, roasting, and baking — or even a customizable memory function.
7. High Wattage (Power)
- Why it matters: More power means faster preheating and cooking, which is perfect for achieving crispy wings in a shorter time.
- What to look for: Air fryers with 1,500 to 1,800 watts are ideal for high-heat, crispy cooking.
8. Dual Basket or Multi-Zone Options
- Why it matters: Want to cook wings and fries at the same time? A dual-basket air fryer lets you cook two different foods at two different temperatures.
- What to look for: Look for models with dual zones, independent timers, and sync-finish functions — great for preparing a complete meal efficiently.
9. Transparent Window or Viewing Screen
- Why it matters: No need to open the basket and lose heat if you can monitor your wings as they cook.
- What to look for: A clear viewing window with an interior light helps you keep an eye on the crispiness level without interrupting the cooking process.
10. Accessories for Rotisserie or Skewers
- Why it matters: Some air fryers come with rotisserie attachments or skewer racks that allow for even crisping on all sides — perfect for wings!
- What to look for: Check if the model includes extra accessories like racks, rotisserie spits, or silicone mats for more cooking versatility.
When choosing an air fryer for chicken wings, it’s all about finding a balance of capacity, power, and convenient features that make cooking faster and easier — while delivering that irresistible crispy finish. With the right air fryer, wing night at home will never be the same!
Best Air Fryers for Chicken Wings: Our Top Picks
There are dozens of air fryers on the market, but not all are great for making chicken wings. We’ve carefully selected the best models based on performance, capacity, ease of use, and price.
1. Ninja DZ201 – Basket Air Fryer
Quick Review: A dual-basket air fryer that allows you to cook two different foods at the same time with separate settings. Perfect for wings and sides.
Pros:
✔ Two independent baskets for multitasking
✔ 6 cooking functions, including air fry and roast
✔ Large 8-quart capacity
Cons:
✖ Slightly bulky design
✖ Higher price point
Price: Around $179
2. COSORI Pro II Air Fryer
Quick Review: One of the most popular air fryers, known for its even cooking technology and preset functions that make cooking wings effortless.
Pros:
✔ 12 cooking presets for versatility
✔ Even heating for crispy results
✔ Dishwasher-safe parts
Cons:
✖ No dual-basket function
✖ Takes up counter space
Price: Around $129
3. Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer
Quick Review: A powerful and affordable option with customizable cooking functions and a see-through window to monitor your food.
Pros:
✔ See-through window for easy monitoring
✔ Rapid preheating and cooking
✔ Compact design for small kitchens
Cons:
✖ Limited capacity compared to larger models
✖ No dual-zone cooking
Price: Around $99
4. Philips Premium Airfryer XXL
Quick Review: A high-end model with fat removal technology that ensures crispy wings with less oil.
Pros:
✔ Advanced airflow system for even crisping
✔ Large 3-pound food capacity
✔ High-quality build and durability
Cons:
✖ Expensive compared to other options
✖ Takes up more space
Price: Around $299
5. GoWISE USA 7-Quart Digital Air Fryer
Quick Review: A budget-friendly air fryer with a large capacity, great for making wings for a crowd.
Pros:
✔ Large 7-quart basket
✔ Simple digital controls
✔ Affordable price
Cons:
✖ No advanced cooking presets
✖ May require shaking food mid-cook for even crisping
Price: Around $89
Comparison Table: Best Air Fryers for Chicken Wings
| Model | Capacity | Key Feature | Price |
| Ninja DZ201 Foodi | 8 Quarts | Dual-basket cooking | $179 |
| COSORI Pro II | 5.8 Quarts | Even heating, presets | $129 |
| Instant Vortex Plus | 6 Quarts | See-through window | $99 |
| Philips Airfryer XXL | 3 lbs food | Fat removal tech | $299 |
| GoWISE USA 7-Quart | 7 Quarts | Budget-friendly | $89 |
How to Choose the Best Air Fryer for Chicken Wings
If you’re a fan of crispy, flavorful chicken wings, choosing the right air fryer is essential. From the cooking capacity to ensure you can make enough for a crowd, to features like adjustable temperature controls and even heat distribution, the right air fryer can make all the difference.
This guide will help you identify the key features to look for so you can enjoy perfectly cooked chicken wings every time.
1. Capacity & Size
- For small households: 4-5 quarts is enough
- For families & parties: 6+ quarts is ideal
2. Power & Cooking Performance
Look for an air fryer with at least 1500W for fast, even cooking. Higher wattage ensures crispier wings in less time.
3. Features & Cooking Presets
Models with preset functions for chicken or air frying take the guesswork out of cooking.
4. Ease of Cleaning
Dishwasher-safe baskets and non-stick coatings make cleaning easier.
5. Brand & Durability
Reputable brands like Ninja, COSORI, and Philips offer longer-lasting, high-performance fryers.
Air Fryer vs. Oven vs. Deep Fryer: Which is Best for Chicken Wings?
When it comes to making chicken wings, choosing the right cooking method can significantly impact the taste, texture, and convenience. Air fryers offer a healthier alternative with crispy results and minimal oil, while ovens are ideal for larger batches with even cooking.
On the other hand, deep fryers deliver unbeatable crispiness but come with higher oil usage. In this comparison, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each method to help you decide which is best for your chicken wing cravings.
| Feature | Air Fryer | Oven | Deep Fryer |
| Crispness | ✅ High | ⚠️ Moderate | ✅✅ Very High |
| Oil Usage | ✅ Minimal | ✅ Minimal | ❌ High |
| Cooking Time | ✅ Fast | ❌ Longer | ✅ Fast |
| Ease of Use | ✅ Simple | ❌ Requires preheating | ⚠️ Messy |
| Healthier Option | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
For healthier, crispy wings, an air fryer is the best choice. It provides a deep-fried texture without excess oil, making it a great option for everyday cooking.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Wings in an Air Fryer
Air-fried chicken wings are crispy, juicy, and incredibly easy to make — if you know a few key tricks. Whether you’re cooking for game night or just craving a healthier version of your favorite wings, these tips will help you nail that perfect bite every time!
1. Pat the Wings Dry Before Cooking
Why it matters: Moisture on the skin prevents crispiness.
Pro tip: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the wings before seasoning. This helps the hot air create a perfectly crispy outer layer.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Why it matters: Air circulation is the secret to even cooking and crispy skin.
Pro tip: Arrange the wings in a single layer with space between each piece. If you’re making a large batch, cook in multiple batches for the best results.
3. Use Baking Powder for Extra Crispiness
Why it matters: Baking powder helps draw moisture from the skin, creating a crunchier texture.
Pro tip: Toss your wings in a mix of salt, pepper, and a light coating of baking powder before air frying.
4. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Why it matters: Starting with a hot air fryer helps the wings cook evenly and quickly.
Pro tip: Preheat for 3–5 minutes at 380°F (193°C) before adding your wings.
5. Shake the Basket Halfway Through
Why it matters: Flipping or shaking the wings ensures even crispiness on all sides.
Pro tip: About halfway through cooking, take a moment to shake the basket or flip the wings with tongs.
6. Cook in Stages for Maximum Crispiness
Why it matters: A two-stage cooking process helps render fat and crisp up the skin.
Pro tip: Air fry at 380°F for 25 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes. Then increase the temperature to 400°F and cook for another 5 minutes for that final crunch.
7. Sauce After Cooking
Why it matters: Adding sauce too early can make the wings soggy.
Pro tip: Toss your wings in buffalo, BBQ, or garlic parmesan sauce right after air frying for the perfect balance of crispy and flavorful.
8. Experiment with Seasonings
Why it matters: Wings are versatile, and the air fryer locks in flavor.
Pro tip: Try dry rubs with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne for a spicy kick, or keep it simple with salt and pepper.
9. Use a Meat Thermometer
Why it matters: Ensuring your wings are fully cooked is crucial for food safety.
Pro tip: The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If they need more time, cook in 2-minute increments until done.
10. Let the Wings Rest Before Serving
Why it matters: Resting helps the juices redistribute for tender meat.
Pro tip: Let the wings sit for a few minutes before serving — it makes a big difference in taste and texture.
With these simple tips, you’ll have restaurant-quality air-fried chicken wings right at home. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor — every single time!
Final Thoughts: Which Air Fryer is Right for You?
Selecting the perfect air fryer ultimately comes down to your cooking habits, preferences, and budget. Whether you prioritize simplicity, advanced features, or size, there’s an option that fits your needs.
By understanding what matters most to you—be it capacity, functionality, or ease of use—you can make an informed decision. With the right air fryer, you’re just steps away from enjoying quick, healthy, and delicious meals at home.
- Best Overall: Ninja DZ201 Foodi – Perfect for multitasking with dual-basket cooking.
- Best Budget Option: GoWISE USA 7-Quart – Large, affordable, and great for families.
- Best High-End Choice: Philips Airfryer XXL – Premium quality with fat removal technology.
No matter which model you choose, air fryers make cooking wings easier, healthier, and just as delicious as traditional frying. Start making crispy, juicy chicken wings at home!
