Summer is the perfect time to gather with friends and family, enjoying outdoor meals and snacks. Nothing beats the taste of crispy chicken wings, but frying them traditionally can be messy and greasy.
With the Ninja XL Air Fryer, you can achieve that perfect crunch quickly and healthily, right on your countertop. Here’s a simple, step-by-step recipe to make delicious, crispy chicken wings using this versatile appliance.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja XL Air Fryer
- ✔ Weight: 15 lbs
- ✔ Color: Grey
- ✔ Warranty: 1 Year
Ninja Air Fryer XL with MaxCrisp, 6.5 Qt, 6-in-1, Grey, AF181
- Max Crisp Technology: Up to 450°F for crispy results
- 6-in-1 Cooking Functions: Multiple cooking modes including bake and dehydrate
- XL Capacity: 6.5-quart basket, holds large meals
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Ingredients and Preparation
- 2 lbs chicken wings, thawed or frozen
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Optional: hot sauce or your favorite wing sauce
Start by patting the chicken wings dry if they are thawed. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil and your preferred seasonings. For extra flavor, you can marinate the wings for 30 minutes before cooking.
Cooking Steps
- Preheat the Ninja XL Air Fryer to 450°F using the MaxCrisp setting for a few minutes.
- Place the seasoned wings in the nonstick basket, spreading them out evenly for maximum crispiness.
- Insert the basket into the air fryer and cook for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket every 10 minutes for even cooking.
- Once crispy and golden, remove the wings and toss them in your favorite hot sauce or glaze.
- Serve immediately with celery sticks and a side of dipping sauce for a perfect summer snack.
Tips for Best Results
- Use the crisper plate for extra crispiness and even airflow around the wings.
- Cook frozen wings directly without thawing for faster results, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
- For an extra crispy finish, spray the wings lightly with cooking spray before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary to ensure crispiness.
- Experiment with different seasonings and sauces to customize your wings for every summer gathering.
Cleanup and Maintenance
The nonstick basket and crisper plate are dishwasher safe, making cleanup quick and easy after your summer feast. Simply wash with warm, soapy water or place in the dishwasher for effortless maintenance. Keep the exterior clean with a damp cloth to maintain the appliance’s sleek look.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja XL Air Fryer
The Ninja XL Air Fryer makes it simple to whip up crispy, flavorful chicken wings with minimal oil and fuss. Its large capacity and versatile functions are ideal for summer get-togethers and family meals.
Pros:
- Fast cooking with MaxCrisp technology
- Large 6.5-quart capacity
- Easy to clean nonstick parts
- Healthier fried foods with less oil
Cons:
- Takes up counter space
- Learning curve for new users
- Some foods may need extra shaking
Best for: Home cooks wanting quick, crispy snacks for summer gatherings
Not ideal for: Those seeking traditional deep-frying results or very small kitchens
Bottom line: A versatile, easy-to-use air fryer that elevates summer cooking with crispy, healthier fried foods.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
