Love crispy, golden-brown chicken wings but hate the mess and guilt of deep frying? You’re in for a treat! An air fryer is your secret weapon for achieving restaurant-quality wings right in your own kitchen, using far less oil. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best air fryer for wings that truly delivers?
We’ve done the legwork for you! We’ve scoured the market to find the top contenders that excel at giving you that perfect crunch and juicy interior, whether you’re making a small batch for yourself or a feast for game day. Say goodbye to soggy wings and hello to air-fried perfection!
Why an Air Fryer is a Game-Changer for Chicken Wings
Air frying is all about circulating super-heated air around your food, creating a crispy exterior similar to deep frying, but with just a fraction of the oil. For chicken wings, this means:
- Unbeatable Crispiness: The high heat and consistent airflow render the fat and crisp up the skin beautifully.
- Healthier Alternative: Enjoy your favorite snack with up to 75% less fat compared to traditional frying methods.
- Less Mess: No vats of hot oil to deal with, and cleanup is typically a breeze.
- Speed & Convenience: Many air fryers cook wings surprisingly fast, often quicker than a conventional oven.
- Even Cooking: Modern air fryers are designed to circulate heat efficiently, ensuring all your wings cook evenly.
How We Chose the Best Air Fryers for Wings
When selecting our top picks, we focused on several key factors crucial for outstanding wings:
- Capacity: Can it handle a good batch of wings without overcrowding?
- Cooking Performance: Does it consistently produce crispy, juicy results? Look for high temperatures and strong airflow.
- Ease of Use: Is it intuitive to operate and easy to clean?
- Special Features: Are there any unique aspects that enhance the wing-making experience (e.g., dual baskets, specific presets, shake reminders)?
- User Feedback: What are real customers saying about its wing-making capabilities?
Ready to find your wing-cooking soulmate? Let’s dive into our top picks for the best air fryer for wings!
Product Reviews
COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Fast Turbo…
If you’re serious about crispy wings that are cooked to perfection, the COSORI TurboBlaze is an excellent choice. Its innovative TurboBlaze Technology, featuring a powerful 3600 rpm fan and temperatures up to 450℉, ensures your wings get that coveted “beyond-crispy” texture while staying wonderfully juicy inside. The advanced airflow and precise temperature control mean you won’t have to worry about unevenly cooked wings, and the generous 6-quart square basket is spacious enough to cook a solid batch for the family without overcrowding. Plus, it operates quietly, which is a nice bonus!
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Key Features:
- TurboBlaze Technology with 3600 rpm fan speed and up to 450℉
- Advanced airflow and precise temperature control for even cooking
- 5-fan speed system for professional-grade versatility
- 6-quart square basket for family meals
- Operates quietly (less than 53 dB)
- Up to 95% less oil than traditional frying
- Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket and accessories
- Customizable preheat function
- Includes 30-recipe cookbook
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Pros:
- Exceptional crisping capabilities due to high fan speed and temperature
- Large, wider basket accommodates more wings
- Even cooking without the need for constant shaking
- Quiet operation enhances the cooking experience
- Easy to clean components
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Cons:
- Preheat function might be an extra step for some users (though customizable)
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise this COSORI model for its ability to deliver incredibly crispy chicken wings, often noting how quickly it cooks them compared to other models. Many appreciate the spacious basket and the quiet operation, making it a favorite for family cooking.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster…
When you need to cook a lot of wings, or want the versatility of a multi-cooker, the Emeril Lagasse Extra Large French Door Air Fryer Toaster Oven steps up to the plate. With an enormous 26-quart capacity, it’s designed for large gatherings, capable of cooking food for 4-6 people, or even rotisserie a 6-lb chicken! Its dual-speed fan and 360º superheated air circulation promise golden-fried crisping, making it an excellent choice for big batches of wings. The elegant French doors and stainless steel exterior also add a touch of class to your kitchen.
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Key Features:
- Versatile multi-cooker: Air Fryer, Toaster, Roaster, and more
- 25 cooking presets for various dishes (including chicken)
- Dual-speed fan with 360º superheated air circulation
- Extra-large 26-quart capacity
- Elegant French doors and stainless steel exterior
- Interior light to monitor food
- Automatic toast countdown timer
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Pros:
- Massive capacity perfect for large families or parties
- Highly versatile with many cooking functions
- Delivers excellent crisping results for wings
- Stylish design with practical French doors
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Cons:
- Large countertop footprint might not suit smaller kitchens
- More of an oven replacement than a compact air fryer
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User Impressions: Reviewers love the huge capacity and the ability to cook multiple items at once. Many specifically mention its effectiveness at air frying, praising the crispy results, especially for items like chicken wings and fries. The aesthetics and convenience of the French doors are also frequently highlighted.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
Ninja | Air Fryer | Finish Cooking Multiple Foods at…
The Ninja DualZone Air Fryer is a dream come true for wing lovers who also want to cook a side dish simultaneously. Its innovative DualZone Technology with two independent 5-quart baskets allows you to cook two different foods, two different ways, and even have them finish at the same time using the Smart Finish feature. Imagine cooking crispy chicken wings in one basket and seasoned fries in the other, all ready together! This XL air fryer can easily handle up to 8 lbs of chicken wings, making it fantastic for entertaining or meal prep.
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Key Features:
- Two independent 5-quart baskets (10-quart total capacity)
- DualZone Technology with Smart Finish and Match Cook features
- IQ Boost for optimal power distribution
- 6-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Keep Warm, Dehydrate, Bake
- XL family-sized capacity (cooks up to 8 lbs of wings)
- Separate heating zones for each basket
- Easy-to-clean, dishwasher-safe baskets and crisper plates
- Wide temperature range (105°F–450°F)
- Up to 75% less fat
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Pros:
- Cooks wings and a side simultaneously, saving time
- Huge capacity for large batches of wings
- Excellent crisping performance
- Versatile cooking programs
- Easy to clean
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Cons:
- Larger footprint due to dual-basket design
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User Impressions: This Ninja model receives high marks for its convenience and efficiency. Users rave about the Smart Finish feature, especially for cooking proteins like chicken wings alongside vegetables or fries. The sheer capacity and crispy results are consistent highlights.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity, Air…
For those who want straightforward, high-performance air frying without the bells and whistles of a dual-zone model, the Ninja Air Fryer Pro is a fantastic contender for the best air fryer for wings. Its Air Crisp Technology, using 400℉ superheated air, promises hot, crispy results with little to no oil. With a 5-quart nonstick basket, it comfortably fits up to 5 lbs of chicken wings – a perfect amount for most families. Plus, it’s designed to be a space-saver, fitting neatly on your countertop while still delivering impressive capacity.
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Key Features:
- Air Crisp Technology for superheated air circulation
- 5-quart nonstick basket and crisper plate
- Fits up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings
- 4-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate
- Up to 75% less fat
- Cooks frozen foods to crispy in minutes
- Space-saving design
- Easy-to-clean, nonstick basket and crisper plate
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Pros:
- Excellent for achieving hot, crispy wings
- Good capacity for a compact model
- Efficient for cooking frozen wings quickly
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Takes up less counter space
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Cons:
- Single basket operation, so no simultaneous cooking of sides
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User Impressions: Users love the simplicity and effectiveness of this Ninja air fryer. Many highlight its speed and ability to transform frozen wings into perfectly crispy, golden snacks. It’s often recommended as a reliable, no-fuss air fryer for everyday use.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
Typhur Dome 2 Air Fryer, Extra Large Airfryer with…
If speed and premium performance are at the top of your list for the best air fryer for wings, look no further than the Typhur Dome 2. Praised by America’s Test Kitchen and Reviewed USA Today, this air fryer boasts a unique 360° Heating Technology with dual heating elements (top and bottom) that drastically cut down cooking time – we’re talking 32 chicken wings in just 14 minutes! This innovative design ensures incredibly even cooking without constant shaking or flipping. Plus, its whisper-quiet operation and unique self-cleaning mode make it a true standout.
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Key Features:
- Recommended by America’s Test Kitchen and Reviewed USA Today
- 360° Heating Technology with dual heating elements (top and bottom)
- 30% faster cooking time (e.g., 32 wings in 14 minutes)
- Whisper-quiet operation (55dB)
- 15-in-1 multifunctional cooking (including Air Fry, Grill, Roast, etc.)
- Unique self-cleaning mode for top cavity
- Non-stick ceramic basket coating
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Pros:
- Unmatched cooking speed and efficiency for wings
- Dual heating elements ensure even, crispy results
- Extremely quiet operation
- Large capacity for big batches
- Innovative self-cleaning feature is a major convenience
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Cons:
- Potentially higher price point than basic models
- Self-cleaning is for the top cavity, not the basket
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User Impressions: Customers are highly impressed with the Typhur Dome 2’s rapid cooking times and consistently crispy results, especially for wings. The quiet operation is a frequently lauded feature, as is the thorough, even cooking that reduces the need for constant monitoring.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
Nutrichef 5.8 Quart Air Fryer | 8-1 Preset Cook Modes…
The Nutrichef 5.8 Quart Air Fryer offers a balanced blend of capacity, smart features, and easy operation, making it a solid contender for your wing-cooking needs. It comes with dedicated presets for various foods, including one specifically for “Wings,” taking the guesswork out of cooking. The 360° hot air circulation technology ensures quick and even cooking, and you can even monitor your wing progress through the convenient LED touch screen and transparent window – no more pulling out the basket to check!
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Key Features:
- 8 preset cooking modes including “Wings”
- Adjustable temperature (up to 390°F) and timer (up to 60 min)
- 1200W heating element for fast cooking
- 5.8-quart food capacity
- 360° hot air circulation technology
- LED touch screen and transparent cooking window
- Non-stick & dishwasher-safe tray
- Automatic shut-off and overheat protection
- Compact stainless steel design
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Pros:
- Dedicated wing preset for optimal results
- Transparent window allows easy monitoring
- Good capacity for family portions
- Fast and even cooking
- Easy to clean and compact design
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Cons:
- Max temperature of 390°F might be lower than some competitors (though still effective for wings)
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate the specific wing preset, which simplifies the cooking process. The transparent window is a big hit, allowing users to watch their wings crisp up without interrupting the cooking cycle. Many find it to be a reliable and user-friendly appliance for daily meals.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
Ninja Air Fryer, 8 QT DoubleStack 2-Basket, Space Saving…
The Ninja DoubleStack Air Fryer takes the popular dual-basket concept and turns it vertical, offering immense capacity for wings while saving precious countertop space. This innovative stacked design means you can cook 4 lbs of chicken wings at once, utilizing two independent baskets with two removable stacked meal racks in each. It’s like having two air fryers in one, but occupying nearly half the space of traditional dual-basket models. The Smart Finish and Match Cook features, combined with Ninja’s proven air frying technology, ensure your wings are perfectly crispy and ready in a flash.
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Key Features:
- Unique stacked, space-saving design (40% slimmer)
- DoubleStack Air Frying Technology with 2 independently controlled baskets
- Includes 2 removable stacked meal racks for 4-level cooking
- Smart Finish and Match Cook features
- 8-quart capacity (cooks 4 lbs of chicken wings)
- 6-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, Dehydrate
- Up to 75% less fat
- Faster cooking than other air fryers
- Easy-to-clean baskets and dishwasher-safe crisper plates
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Pros:
- Cooks large quantities of wings in a compact footprint
- Dual baskets with independent control for versatility
- Stacked racks allow for cooking more wings simultaneously
- Ninja’s reliable crisping technology
- Faster overall cooking times
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Cons:
- Vertical loading might take some getting used to
- Requires adequate vertical cabinet space if storing
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User Impressions: This model is a favorite for those who need to feed a crowd but have limited counter space. Reviewers praise its ability to cook massive amounts of wings evenly and quickly. The Smart Finish feature is consistently highlighted as a major time-saver for busy families.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
COSORI 6.8Qt Air Fryer, 12-in-1 Dual Blaze for 360°…
The COSORI Dual Blaze sets a new standard for effortless crispiness, making it a strong contender for the best air fryer for wings if you want minimal fuss. Thanks to its unique Dual Blaze Technology with two heating elements (one on top, one on the bottom), it achieves a true 360° crispiness without requiring any preheating or shaking. That’s right – perfectly crispy wings straight into the basket, no mid-cook intervention needed! It also cooks 40% faster and offers a generous 6.8-quart capacity, easily handling a whole chicken or a substantial batch of wings.
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Key Features:
- Dual Blaze Technology with top and bottom heating elements
- Achieves 360° crispiness without preheating or shaking
- 40% faster cooking time
- 6.8-quart square basket capacity
- 12-in-1 functionality
- VeSync app for remote and voice control (Alexa compatible)
- Easy-to-clean, detachable crisper plate (dishwasher safe)
- Includes 100+ online recipes
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Pros:
- No preheating or shaking required for perfectly crispy wings
- Significantly faster cooking
- Large capacity for family-sized meals
- Smart app control adds convenience
- Excellent crisping results
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Cons:
- Might be a higher initial investment
- Smart features might be overkill for some users
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User Impressions: The “no preheating, no shaking” feature is a massive hit with users, who report consistently perfect crispiness on wings and other foods with minimal effort. The speed and large capacity are also frequently lauded, making it a top choice for busy households seeking convenience and performance.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
Chefman Air Fryer – 6 QT Compact Airfryer for Quick…
The Chefman 6-Quart Compact Air Fryer is a straightforward yet powerful option, especially if you prioritize extra crispiness and smart user feedback. Its standout feature is the 450°F HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY, allowing you to crank up the heat for those final minutes to achieve an incredible finishing crunch on your air-fried favorites, like wings. The LED Shake Notifications are a thoughtful touch, reminding you exactly when to shake your wings for the crispiest results. It’s also sleek and compact, perfect for kitchens where counter space is at a premium.
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Key Features:
- 6-quart capacity, suitable for 3-5 people
- 450°F HI-FRY TECHNOLOGY for extra crispiness
- Digital touch screen display with four preset functions
- LED Shake Notifications for optimal results
- Sleek, narrow, and compact design
- Healthy cooking with little-to-no oil
- Dishwasher-safe nonstick basket and rack
- Automatic shutoff technology
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Pros:
- High temperature setting ensures maximum crispiness for wings
- Shake notifications are very helpful
- Good capacity for its compact size
- Easy to clean
- Space-saving design
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Cons:
- Single basket design
- Fewer overall functions compared to multi-cooker models
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User Impressions: Customers love the 450°F boost for getting that extra crunch, particularly on items like chicken wings and French fries. The shake reminder is often mentioned as a helpful feature for beginners and experienced users alike, ensuring evenly cooked and crispy food every time.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie,…
For ultimate versatility and a massive capacity to handle any wing challenge, the CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie is a powerhouse. This appliance goes beyond just air frying, offering bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, and roast functions. With an extra-large 10-liter capacity and three air flow racks, you can cook multiple batches of wings at once, ensuring excellent air circulation for even crisping. Plus, it skips the preheat time of traditional ovens, getting your wings ready faster, and the interior light and large window allow you to monitor your delicious progress.
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Key Features:
- Versatile 5-in-1 functionality: Air Fry, Bake, Dehydrate, Rotisserie, Roast
- No preheat needed for faster cooking
- Healthy cooking with 98% less oil
- 17 preset options and easy-to-use touch control screen
- Includes three air flow racks, rotisserie spit, and drip tray
- Extra-large 10-Liter capacity
- Interior lights and large oven window for monitoring
- Removable drip tray and dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleanup
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Pros:
- Huge capacity perfect for very large batches of wings
- Multiple racks allow for excellent air flow and quantity
- No preheating required saves time
- Highly versatile with many cooking functions
- Easy to monitor food through the large window
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Cons:
- Larger footprint similar to a small countertop oven
- Might be overkill if only used for small batches of wings
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User Impressions: This Chefman model is highly rated for its large capacity and ability to cook multiple items simultaneously, making it ideal for large families or entertaining. Users frequently praise its crisping ability on wings and its overall versatility as a kitchen workhorse. The easy cleanup is also a consistent positive.
- Call-to-Action: See it on Amazon here
Air Fryer for Wings: A Quick Buying Guide
Choosing the perfect air fryer for your wings doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Capacity Matters: For crispy wings, you want to avoid overcrowding. A 5-quart capacity is good for 1-2 people, 6-8 quarts for a small family, and 10+ quarts for larger families or parties.
- Temperature Range: Look for models that can reach at least 400°F (or even 450°F) for that ultimate crispy finish.
- Airflow Technology: Different brands have proprietary names (TurboBlaze, DualZone, Air Crisp), but they all aim for consistent, superheated air circulation. This is key for even cooking and crispiness.
- Ease of Cleaning: Non-stick, dishwasher-safe baskets and components will save you a lot of hassle.
- Wattage: Higher wattage generally means faster heating and more powerful performance.
- Smart Features/Presets: While not essential, features like specific wing presets, shake reminders, or app control can enhance convenience.
FAQ Section
Q1: What’s the ideal temperature for air frying chicken wings?
A1: Most recipes recommend air frying chicken wings between 375°F and 400°F (190°C to 205°C). Some air fryers, like the Chefman, can even go up to 450°F for an extra crispy finish in the last few minutes.
Q2: Do I need to preheat my air fryer for wings?
A2: While some air fryers, like the COSORI Dual Blaze, boast “no preheat” technology, generally, preheating for about 5 minutes helps ensure your wings start cooking immediately and achieve a more consistent crisp. Check your specific air fryer’s manual.
Q3: How long does it take to air fry chicken wings?
A3: The cooking time for chicken wings in an air fryer typically ranges from 18 to 30 minutes, depending on the size of the wings and the air fryer model. Always cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety, then continue for extra crispiness if desired.
Q4: Can I cook frozen wings in an air fryer?
A4: Absolutely! Many air fryers are excellent at cooking frozen foods straight from the freezer. You’ll generally need to add about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time and make sure to shake the basket frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Q5: How do I get my air fryer wings extra crispy?
A5: For super crispy wings:
* Pat them very dry before seasoning.
* Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.
* Toss them with a little baking powder (not baking soda) before air frying.
* Flip or shake the basket every 5-7 minutes.
* Consider a higher temperature (like 400-450°F) for the last 5 minutes.
Q6: What capacity air fryer is best for a family of four for wings?
A6: For a family of four, an air fryer with a capacity of 5.8 to 8 quarts is usually ideal. This allows you to cook a good batch of wings (around 2-3 pounds) without overcrowding, ensuring they all get crispy. If you frequently host or want to cook larger batches, a 10-quart or larger model (like the Ninja DualZone or Chefman Multifunctional) would be even better.
Q7: Is it healthier to cook wings in an air fryer than deep frying?
A7: Yes, significantly healthier! Air frying uses very little to no oil, dramatically reducing the fat content and calories compared to traditional deep frying, while still giving you that satisfying crispy texture.
Conclusion
Finding the best air fryer for wings truly comes down to your personal needs – capacity, speed, and desired features. Whether you prioritize a massive dual-basket setup for game day feasts, a super-fast model that cooks in minutes, or a compact option for everyday crispy cravings, there’s an air fryer out there that will transform your wing game. Say goodbye to greasy deep fryers and hello to perfectly crispy, guilt-free wings whenever the craving strikes!