Name: Sweet and Tangy Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 chicken wings; 1/4 cup all purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon white pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons honey; 3 tablespoons light brown sugar; 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; Green onions, chopped; Sesame seeds

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If you are searching for a dish that hits all the right notes with crispy skin, juicy meat, and an unbeatable balance of flavor, then this Sweet and Tangy Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. The wings are perfectly coated in a delicate flour and spice mix, air-fried to golden crispiness, and then generously tossed in a luscious sauce that combines the sweetness of honey and brown sugar with the zing of sweet chili and soy sauce. This recipe not only delivers incredible taste but also keeps things simple, making it a fantastic choice for a quick dinner, game day snack, or party appetizer. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress everyone gathered at your table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white marble cutting board holds several cooking ingredients neatly arranged in small white bowls and clear glass bowls. On the top right, there are six raw chicken wings stacked on a piece of parchment paper, showing pink and light yellow skin with a smooth texture. To the left of the chicken wings, there are two white ceramic spoons with light brown powder and small mustard seeds. Below them, three round bowls are placed in a row: the left one is filled with dark soy sauce, the middle is bright red chili sauce with a thick texture, and the right one contains a light brown granulated substance. Below these, there is a bowl with golden honey showing a shiny, liquid surface. Next to it on the right, a tiny white bowl contains grayish ground pepper, and beside it, a clear glass bowl holds coarse white salt. All these ingredients are set on a clean white marble surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating these irresistible wings. The list is straightforward yet carefully balanced to build that signature sweet and tangy flavor while ensuring a crisp texture and a beautiful golden color on the chicken.

10 chicken wings: The star of the show, offering juicy, tender meat and crispy skin when cooked right.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps create a light, crispy coating without overpowering the wings.
1/4 teaspoon white pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the seasoning.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the wings with savory aroma and flavor.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall taste with a hint of sweetness and earthiness.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors in the chicken and seasoning.
3 tablespoons honey: Provides luscious sweetness that balances the tangy elements perfectly.
3 tablespoons light brown sugar: Deepens the sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize beautifully.
3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce: Adds a gentle spicy kick and vibrant flavor to the sauce.
3 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings umami richness and saltiness that tie the flavors together seamlessly.
Green onions, chopped (for garnish): Adds fresh crunch and a pop of color when serving.
Sesame seeds (for garnish): Gives a delightful nuttiness and visual appeal to the finished dish.

How to Make Sweet and Tangy Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Wings

Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels; this step is crucial to getting that crispy skin you crave. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, white pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Gently toss each wing in the flour mixture, ensuring every nook and cranny is coated for an even, flavorful crust.

Step 2: Preheat and Arrange

Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare the tray by lining it with perforated parchment paper. Spray the tray lightly with a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Shake off any excess flour from the wings, then space them evenly on the tray to allow hot air to circulate and crisp up the skin perfectly.

Step 3: First Air Frying

Set the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the wings for 8 minutes. After the first interval, flip each wing carefully and continue cooking for another 8 minutes. You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown color and a crispy exterior while ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe eating.

Step 4: Make the Sweet and Tangy Sauce

While the wings are cooking, combine the honey, light brown sugar, sweet chili sauce, and soy sauce in a skillet over medium-high heat. Stir continuously and allow the mixture to simmer for 1-2 minutes, thickening into a glossy, sticky sauce that promises intense flavor.

Step 5: Coat and Finish Cooking

Once wings are out of the air fryer, transfer them to the skillet with the sauce. Using a wooden spoon, toss gently but thoroughly to ensure each wing is coated in that irresistibly sweet and tangy glaze. Place the sauced wings back in the air fryer and cook for an additional 5 minutes to set the sauce and intensify the flavors.

How to Serve Sweet and Tangy Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe

A white plate with a thin dark blue rim holds six golden-brown cooked wings, each coated in a shiny, sticky sauce with small bits of spices visible. The wings are arranged in a loose cluster on the left side of the plate. On the right side, there are fresh, bright green lettuce leaves that look crisp and soft. Small pieces of chopped green onions are sprinkled on top of the wings for color and freshness. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions and a handful of toasted sesame seeds over your wings right before serving. These garnishes add a fresh crunch and nutty flavor that beautifully complements the richness of the sauce, while also providing an eye-catching finish.

Side Dishes

The perfect accompaniment to this Sweet and Tangy Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe includes crunchy vegetable sticks like celery and carrot, a creamy ranch or blue cheese dip, or even a simple side of steamed jasmine rice to soak up the extra sauce. These sides help balance out the sweetness and offer refreshing contrasts in texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the wings on a large wooden board layered with parchment paper and scatter the garnishes across the platter for shareability. You can also arrange them alongside small bowls of extra sauce for dipping, or create individual servings in mini baskets lined with paper for casual get-togethers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any wings left over (though they rarely last long!), place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness while keeping the flavors vibrant for your next meal.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked wings to enjoy later by first cooling them completely. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking. They will keep well for up to 2 months without significant loss of flavor or texture.

Reheating

For best results when reheating, pop the wings back in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the skin soggy and less appetizing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before patting dry and proceeding with the flour coating. This ensures even cooking and crispy results in your Sweet and Tangy Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe.

What if I don’t have sweet chili sauce on hand?

No worries. You can substitute with a combination of chili garlic sauce and a little extra honey or brown sugar to maintain that sweet but spicy balance.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and double-check that your soy sauce is gluten-free (tamari is a great option).

How spicy are these wings?

These wings have a gentle heat level from the sweet chili sauce, making them approachable for most palates. If you like it spicier, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce a day in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Warm it gently before tossing with the wings for optimal stickiness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly satisfying about homemade chicken wings that are crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor on the inside, and this Sweet and Tangy Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe hits the mark every single time. It’s quick, straightforward, and delivers a winning combination of sweetness, tang, and a hint of spice that makes every bite unforgettable. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen, perfect for any occasion where deliciousness is a must.