The Best Air Fryers For Chicken Wings

How We Tested the Air Fryers?

Testing air fryers demands precision, patience, and a mountain of chicken wings. In our kitchen lab, we evaluated numerous models to find which ones deliver the crispiest, juiciest wings with minimal effort. Our testing process focused on performance, ease of use, and consistency factors that matter when you're craving perfectly cooked wings.

We started with a standard batch of marinated chicken wings for each air fryer. Using 500g of free-range chicken wings (800g for XL models) with half a cup of marinade, we followed manufacturer instructions when available[2]. When specific guidelines weren't provided, we used our judgment to determine appropriate settings and cooking times, monitoring the progress visually to ensure optimal results.

Temperature control proved crucial during testing. The USDA recommends poultry reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. We inserted thermocouples into the center of wings to measure internal temperatures throughout the cooking process, recording data every 15 seconds using professional logging equipment. This meticulous approach allowed us to determine exactly when each air fryer reached the critical food safety threshold.

For consistent evaluation, we assessed:

Cooking time: How quickly wings reached the safe internal temperature of 165°F
Crispiness: Texture of the skin and exterior
Juiciness: Moisture retention inside the meat
Evenness: Consistency of cooking across different parts of the basket
Browning: Color development and caramelization

The Bestproductmadeinusa testing team found significant performance differences between models. Air fryers with square baskets at least 10 inches wide and 4.25 inches high consistently outperformed those with smaller, round baskets. This design allowed better air circulation around the wings, resulting in more even cooking and superior crispiness.

Fan speed and power also influenced results, though these factors proved harder to measure objectively. In our experience, the most effective models balanced powerful air circulation without blowing lightweight foods around the basket. This balance is particularly important when cooking wings with sauces or marinades.

After each test, we evaluated the wings' appearance, texture, and taste. We noted how evenly pieces browned, checking for sogginess, burnt areas, and undercooked sections. The best performers produced wings with crispy exteriors and tender, juicy interiors in approximately 25 minutes.

Cleaning capabilities factored into our final assessments. Wings can leave behind sticky residue and oil, so we evaluated how easily each unit could be disassembled and cleaned. Models with dishwasher-safe components scored higher in our overall rankings.

In our opinion, this comprehensive testing approach allowed us to identify which air fryers truly excel at cooking chicken wings. The results reflect real-world performance rather than marketing claims, giving you reliable information for making an informed purchase decision.

How to Buy the Best Air Fryers?

Selecting the right air fryer involves more than just picking the most expensive model or the one with the most features. In our experience, the best air fryers for chicken wings combine adequate capacity, consistent heating, and user-friendly controls. When we tested various models, we found that certain features made a significant difference in the quality of wings produced.

First, consider the capacity of the air fryer. For chicken wings specifically, you need enough space to arrange them in a single layer. This critical step ensures even cooking and proper crisping. As we discovered during testing, overcrowding leads to soggy, unevenly cooked wings - a disappointment no one wants to experience. For a family of four, a 5-6 quart model typically provides sufficient space, while larger households might need dual-basket models or larger capacities.

The heating element and fan design determine how evenly your wings cook. Models with superior air circulation technology, like the Ninja and Cosori brands we tested, produced consistently crispy wings without requiring constant rotation or repositioning. The best performers in our tests maintained temperatures between 350-400°F without significant fluctuations, resulting in perfectly sealed skin that locks in moisture.

Control options matter more than you might think. Digital displays with precise temperature controls allowed us to follow recipes exactly. Some models from Bestproductmadeinusa featured intuitive interfaces that made adjusting time and temperature simple, even with messy hands. The ability to check food without completely disrupting the cooking cycle proved valuable when preparing wings, which benefit from occasional turning.

The shape of the basket affects how wings cook. We found rectangular baskets generally accommodated more wings in a single layer than round ones of similar capacity. Models with removable perforated trays made cleanup easier after cooking sticky, sauce-coated wings.

Finally, cleaning ease should not be underestimated. Non-stick surfaces and dishwasher-safe components saved significant time during our testing process. Wings can create splatter and drippings, so models with easy-to-clean baskets and drawers earned higher marks in our evaluations.

Air Fryers For Chicken Wings FAQs:

How do you make crispy chicken wings in the air fryer?

Pat wings dry, toss with a little baking powder and salt, arrange in a single layer, and cook at 390°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Why are my wings not crispy in the air fryer?

Too much moisture, overcrowding, or not cooking at a high enough temperature can prevent crispiness. Dry wings well, don’t overcrowd, and cook at 390°F or higher.