An easy and flavorful way to enjoy chicken wings is by making Dry Rub Chicken Wings (Air Fryer). This recipe features a savory homemade dry rub that takes just five minutes to prepare. Perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy family dinner, these wings are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The dry rub not only enhances the flavor but also works well with other meats like beef ribs and chops.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes to make the dry rub, you can whip this dish up in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices offers a delightful taste that elevates your chicken wings to another level.
- Versatile Use: This dry rub can be used for various cooking methods, including baking and grilling, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Healthier Option: Cooking in an air fryer minimizes oil use while still delivering crispy results.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These wings are sure to impress friends and family at parties or casual gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
To make these delicious air fryer chicken wings, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Small bowl for spices
- Measuring spoons
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Air fryer: Provides a healthier way to cook wings while achieving that desired crispy texture without deep frying.
- Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining the chicken wings with olive oil and the dry rub efficiently.
- Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of spices for a balanced flavor profile.
Ingredients
An easy and savory homemade dry rub for air fryer chicken wings! Not only is our 5 minute homemade rub great with oven-baked or grilled wings too, but it’s also perfect for any other chicken pieces or with beef ribs and chops.
For the Dry Rub
- 1 Tbsp garlic powder
- 1 Tbsp ground onion powder
- 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 Tbsp cumin
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- 2 Tbsp coarse kosher salt
- 1 Tbsp coarse ground black pepper
- 2 tsp brown sugar
- 1/4-1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (use 1/4 tsp or none if you prefer mild wings)
For the Chicken Wings
- 1.25 lb chicken wings (separated into wingettes and drumettes)
- 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Dry Rub Chicken Wings (Air Fryer)
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, combine:
1. garlic powder
2. onion powder
3. smoked paprika
4. cumin
5. chili powder
6. coarse kosher salt
7. coarse ground black pepper
8. brown sugar
9. Optional: cayenne pepper
Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes while you prepare the chicken wings.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Wings
- Pat the chicken wings dry using paper towels; this helps them crisp up nicely.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken wings with:
- olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of your prepared dry rub
Mix until all wings are evenly coated with the oil and seasoning.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken Wings
- Lay the seasoned chicken wings in a single layer in your air fryer basket.
- Cook for a total of 17-19 minutes.
- Flip the wings halfway through cooking at around 9-10 minutes.
- Check them after 17 minutes; cook longer if needed until they reach your desired crispiness.
Step 5: Serve
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like Ranch dressing, blue cheese, or BBQ sauce. Enjoy!
How to Serve Dry Rub Chicken Wings (Air Fryer)
Serving dry rub chicken wings from the air fryer is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit any occasion. Whether it’s a game day gathering or a casual family dinner, these wings can be paired with various sides and sauces to enhance their flavor.
With Dipping Sauces
- Ranch Dressing: A creamy and cool option that complements the spicy rub perfectly.
- Blue Cheese Dressing: For those who enjoy bold flavors, this dressing adds a rich and tangy kick.
- BBQ Sauce: Sweet, smoky, and tangy, BBQ sauce pairs well with the spices in the wings.
On a Platter
- Garnished with Celery and Carrots: Add crunch and freshness to your wing platter with fresh vegetable sticks.
- With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
As Part of a Meal
- With French Fries: Crispy fries are a classic choice that pairs nicely with wings.
- On Tacos: Shred leftover wings and use them as filling in soft tortillas for unique taco night.
How to Perfect Dry Rub Chicken Wings (Air Fryer)
Perfecting dry rub chicken wings involves attention to detail and some essential tips that can elevate your dish. Here are some ways to ensure delicious results every time:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh spices in your dry rub mix. They provide better flavor than older spices that may have lost potency.
- Pat Wings Dry: Before applying the rub, pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to help achieve maximum crispiness during cooking.
- Don’t Skimp on Oil: A little extra virgin olive oil helps the seasoning stick while giving the wings a nice crispy texture.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Check your air fryer’s manual for cooking times, as they can vary. Adjust according to your model for perfectly cooked wings.
- Let Wings Rest: Allow the wings to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this helps retain moisture for juicier meat.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the dry rub ingredients based on personal preference—add more cayenne for heat or brown sugar for sweetness.
Best Side Dishes for Dry Rub Chicken Wings (Air Fryer)
Pairing side dishes with your dry rub chicken wings enhances the meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors beautifully:
- Coleslaw: A crunchy salad that adds freshness and balances out the seasoned flavors of the wings.
- Potato Wedges: Roasted or fried potato wedges make for a hearty side that’s easy to prepare alongside the wings.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn offers sweetness that contrasts well with spicy wings.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese provides comfort and richness, making it an ideal pairing.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans add depth to your meal while being a great finger food option.
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread as an accompaniment for dipping into sauces left over from your wings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Dry Rub Chicken Wings (Air Fryer), it’s essential to get it right. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Not drying the wings: Skipping this step can lead to soggy wings. Always pat them dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Over-seasoning the rub: Using too much dry rub can overwhelm the flavor of the chicken. Stick to 1-2 tablespoons per batch for balanced taste.
- Ignoring air fryer capacity: Overcrowding the basket prevents even cooking. Fry in a single layer for optimal crispiness and doneness.
- Neglecting temperature checks: Failing to check for doneness can result in undercooked chicken. Always check internal temperature before serving.
- Serving without sauce options: Not providing dipping sauces might leave your wings feeling incomplete. Offer options like Ranch, blue cheese, or BBQ sauce for added flavor.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Dry Rub Chicken Wings (Air Fryer)
- Place wings in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Dry Rub Chicken Wings (Air Fryer)
- Oven: Preheat oven to 375F and bake wings for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may make them less crispy.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other cuts of chicken with this dry rub?
Yes! This dry rub works great on any chicken pieces, as well as beef ribs and chops.
How long do I need to cook Dry Rub Chicken Wings (Air Fryer)?
Cooking time typically ranges from 17-19 minutes at 400F, flipping halfway through. Always check for doneness.
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
You can still make these wings using an oven or grill. Bake at 425F for about 25-30 minutes or grill over medium heat until done.
Can I make the dry rub ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dry rub and store it in an airtight container for several weeks, making weeknight dinners easier.
Final Thoughts
These Dry Rub Chicken Wings (Air Fryer) are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. Their versatility allows you to customize the seasoning or sauces based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices or dips, making these wings a perfect choice for any gathering!
Dry Rub Chicken Wings (Air Fryer)
Dry Rub Chicken Wings made in the air fryer deliver irresistible flavor and delightful crunch. This quick recipe features a savory homemade dry rub that enhances the wings’ taste, making them perfect for game days, parties, or cozy family dinners. With just five minutes of prep time, you’ll soon be enjoying juicy wings that are crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor inside. Not only are these wings delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with various dipping sauces and side dishes. Versatile and easy to make, these dry rub chicken wings are destined to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1.25 lb chicken wings (wingettes and drumettes)
- 1 Tbsp garlic powder
- 1 Tbsp onion powder
- 1 Tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 Tbsp cumin
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- 2 Tbsp coarse kosher salt
- 1 Tbsp black pepper
- 2 tsp brown sugar
- 1/4 – 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, kosher salt, black pepper, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for about five minutes.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels and place them in a medium bowl with olive oil and half of the dry rub; toss until evenly coated.
- Arrange wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 17-19 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 19 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 wings (170g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1,020mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: Experiment with different spices in the dry rub according to your preference. Allow the wings to rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in moisture.
