Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings with Sweet and Spicy Glaze

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Introduction: The Ultimate Chicken Wing Experience

Few dishes are as universally beloved as perfectly cooked chicken wings—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a sauce that keeps you reaching for more. This Air Fryer Chicken Wings recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making it ideal for game-day gatherings, family dinners, or anytime you crave a flavorful snack.

What sets these wings apart is their perfect balance of texture and flavor. A blend of Seven Colours Grill Seasoning, paprika, cayenne, and mixed herbs creates a bold, smoky taste, while the cornflour coating ensures an extra-crispy finish. The homemade sweet and spicy glaze—made with barbecue sauce, honey, and chili flakes—adds just the right amount of sticky, tangy goodness.

Best of all, this recipe uses an air fryer, which means less oil and mess compared to deep-frying while still achieving that irresistible crunch. If you don’t have an air fryer, oven instructions are included so everyone can enjoy these delicious wings.

Ingredients: Simple Yet Flavorful

For the Chicken Wings:

  • 16 chicken wings (split into drumettes and flats)
  • 2 tablespoons cornflour (for extra crispiness)
  • 1 tablespoon Seven Colours Grill Seasoning (or your favorite BBQ rub)
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon mixed herbs
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (to help the seasoning stick)

For the Glaze:

  • ¼ cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 teaspoon honey (for sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon vinegar (for tang)
  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon water (to thin the sauce)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Wings

  • Pat the wings dry with paper towels—this helps them crisp up better.
  • Cut them into drumettes and flats (if not already done).

2. Season the Wings

  • In a large bowl, mix cornflour, Seven Colours Grill Seasoning, cayenne, mixed herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Drizzle the wings with olive oil, then toss them in the seasoning mix until fully coated.

3. Air Fry (or Bake) to Crispy Perfection

  • Air Fryer Method:
  • Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
  • Arrange wings in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
  • Air fry for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
  • Oven Method:
  • Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  • Place wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet.
  • Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.

4. Make the Glaze

  • In a small saucepan, combine barbecue sauce, honey, vinegar, chili flakes, and water.
  • Simmer for 3 minutes until slightly thickened.

5. Coat and Serve

  • Toss the crispy wings in the warm glaze until fully coated.
  • Serve immediately with extra sauce, ranch, or blue cheese dressing on the side.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Extra Crispy – The cornflour coating ensures a perfect crunch.
  • Bold & Balanced Flavors – Smoky, spicy, sweet, and tangy all in one bite.
  • Healthier Than Deep-Fried – Air frying cuts down on oil without sacrificing texture.
  • Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal cleanup.

Pro Tips for the Best Wings

  • Pat the wings dry before seasoning for maximum crispiness.
  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches if needed.
  • Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing cayenne and chili flakes.
  • Double the glaze if you love saucy wings.

Serving Suggestions & Storage

  • Pair with: Celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your favorite dip.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the air fryer for 3–5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Conclusion: A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite

These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings prove that you don’t need deep-frying to achieve perfectly crunchy, flavorful wings. The homemade glaze adds a sticky-sweet finish with just the right amount of heat, making them irresistible for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a game-day party, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or just craving a delicious snack, this recipe delivers every time. Once you try these wings, they’ll become a regular in your rotation—guaranteed to disappear fast.

Happy cooking!

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