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Crispy air fryer chicken wings plated on a ceramic dish with creamy orange sauce drizzle, chopped green onions, and small dipping bowls on a white marble countertop.
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Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Wings - Crispy, Saucy, Crowd-Pleasing

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Chicken wings: 2 pounds, split into flats and drumettes, patted dry
  • Baking powder (aluminum-free): 2 teaspoons
  • Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon
  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Onion powder: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Paprika (smoked or sweet): 1 teaspoon
  • Kosher salt: 1 teaspoon (plus more to taste)
  • Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Neutral oil spray: For the air fryer basket and wings
  • Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup
  • Sweet chili sauce: 1/3 cup
  • Sriracha or chili-garlic sauce: 1–2 tablespoons, to taste
  • Honey or maple syrup: 1 tablespoon (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • Rice vinegar or lime juice: 1–2 teaspoons, for brightness
  • Garlic: 1 small clove, finely grated (optional)
  • Pinch of salt: to balance
  • Thinly sliced green onions
  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Lime wedges
  • Fresh cilantro

Instructions

  • Prep the wings: Pat the wings very dry with paper towels. Dryer wings = crispier skin. Trim any excess skin or loose bits.
  • Season and coat: In a large bowl, mix baking powder, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add wings and toss until evenly coated. The mixture should cling lightly without clumps.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Heat to 390–400°F (200–205°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with oil.
  • Arrange the wings: Place wings in a single layer, not touching. Work in batches if needed. Lightly mist the tops with oil spray.
  • Air fry: Cook for 18–22 minutes total, flipping halfway. Aim for deep golden-brown and crispy. For extra crunch, increase to 425°F (220°C) the last 2–3 minutes. Internal temp should reach 165°F (74°C).
  • Make the Bang Bang sauce: While the wings cook, whisk mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, and vinegar or lime juice. Adjust heat and sweetness. Add a pinch of salt to pop the flavors.
  • Toss and serve: Transfer hot wings to a clean bowl. Add enough sauce to coat (start with half, add more as desired). Toss quickly and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and lime.