Air Fryer Smoked Chicken Wings

Air Fryer Smoked Chicken Wings

Table of Contents

Introduction

These Air Fryer Smoked Chicken Wings deliver all the smoky, savory goodness of traditional smoked wings — no smoker required! Using smoked paprika, garlic, and a hint of brown sugar, the wings develop a deep smoky flavor while staying juicy inside and crispy outside. Perfect for game days, family dinners, or anytime you crave something bold and flavorful. With just a handful of ingredients and your air fryer, you’ll get wings that taste like they came straight off the smoker — without the mess or the wait.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Wings:

2 lbs (900 g) chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes

1 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)

Dry Rub:

1 tbsp smoked paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp brown sugar

½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp ground cumin

Optional Glaze (for extra smoky shine):

1 tbsp melted butter

1 tsp honey or maple syrup

½ tsp liquid smoke (optional, for enhanced smoked flavor)

For Garnish:

Fresh parsley or green onions (optional)

Lime wedges or ranch dressing for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Wings (10 minutes)

Pat chicken wings dry thoroughly with paper towels — this ensures crispiness.

Place in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil.

Mix all dry rub ingredients in a small bowl, then sprinkle over the wings.

Toss until evenly coated. Let rest for 5–10 minutes to absorb flavors.

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Preheat the Air Fryer (2 minutes)

Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for 2–3 minutes.

Cook the Wings (25–30 minutes)

Arrange wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket (do not overcrowd; cook in batches if needed).

Air fry for 25–30 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through.

For extra crispiness, raise temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 3–5 minutes.

Optional Glaze (2–3 minutes)

In a small bowl, whisk melted butter, honey (or maple syrup), and liquid smoke.

Brush or toss the cooked wings with the glaze for a shiny, smoky finish.

Serve (2 minutes)

Garnish with parsley or green onions.

Serve hot with ranch, blue cheese dip, or lime wedges.

Tips

Dry your wings well before seasoning to maximize crispiness.

Want a stronger smoke flavor? Add ½ tsp liquid smoke to the seasoning mix.

For extra juiciness, marinate the wings in the spice mix overnight.

You can double the batch — just reheat the first batch in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these wings with:

Garlic-Parmesan fries or Coleslaw

Cornbread, Mac and Cheese, or Roasted Veggies

Great as party appetizers or as a main dish with a dipping platter

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Smoked Chicken Wings are crispy, smoky, and packed with flavor — all without firing up a smoker. The combination of spices and the magic of the air fryer makes these wings irresistible. They’re easy to make, mess-free, and guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.