
Turn your air fryer into a wing factory with this no-nonsense buffalo wings approach that gives you crunchy, moist wings every single time. This simple method produces perfectly seasoned wings with that trademark buttery hot sauce blend, matching any sports bar offering while being quicker and cheaper to whip up yourself.
After trying countless versions, I found that keeping it simple and using the right technique delivers the most genuine buffalo wing taste, letting those classic flavors do all the talking.
Key Ingredients
New chicken wings make for juicier bites
Olive oil creates that crispy exterior
Frank's hot sauce delivers that can't-miss taste

Actual butter makes the sauce perfectly balanced
Plenty of seasonings build layers of taste
Wing-Making Steps
Don't hold back with salt and pepper.
Brush with a thin layer of olive oil for that perfect crunch.
Lay them out without touching for even cooking.
Mix hot sauce with melted butter.
Air fry until they look golden and crunchy.
Coat completely in buffalo sauce.

Making wings for so many years taught me that giving them enough room and watching the temperature carefully creates that perfect buffalo wing bite.
Tasty Pairings
Make these wings the star of your game day spread by adding classic sides. Cool things down with homemade ranch or blue cheese dip. For the full experience, put some fresh celery and carrot sticks on the plate to add crunch and balance out the heat.
Heat Options
Adjust these wings to suit different taste buds. Try adding some brown sugar or honey if you want sweet with your heat, or throw in smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. You can make them milder or spicier by changing how much butter and hot sauce you use, so everyone gets wings they'll love.
Keeping Leftovers
Make sure your wings stay crunchy by putting them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you want to warm them up, the air fryer works best at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, but check them often. I don't suggest freezing them, but if you must, thaw them completely before reheating.
Air Fryer Tricks
Get the most from your air fryer with these handy tricks:
- Get your air fryer nice and hot before adding wings
- Don't pack too many in at once
- Flip the wings halfway through cooking time
- Remember each air fryer runs differently
- Grab some tongs for easy turning
Expert Advice
Don't skimp on seasonings before cooking

Stick with Frank's for the real deal taste
Let wings sit for a minute after cooking
I went from doubting air fryer wings to making what I think is the ultimate at-home sports bar treat. Just remember, awesome wings come from using good stuff and cooking them right, creating game day favorites that folks can't stop eating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I make them crunchy?
- Pat wings dry first and avoid overloading the basket.
- → What if I need extra batches?
- Fry them in smaller sets to keep that crisp texture.
- → Which sauce works best?
- Frank's Red Hot Original gives the classic kick.
- → What sides go well?
- Serve fresh out of the fryer with ranch, blue cheese, or celery.
- → Can cook time vary?
- Peek early for little wings or if fryer is extra hot.