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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings with Easy Ranch Dip

air fryer chicken wings - featured image

These crispy air fryer chicken wings come together in about 30 minutes with a shatteringly crisp skin and juicy meat, paired with a creamy homemade ranch dip that’s way better than bottled. Perfect for game days, lazy Fridays, or any day you want something delicious without much effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats (about 2024 pieces total)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (preferably Duke’s or Hellmann’s)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh chives, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon buttermilk or milk (to thin, if needed)

Instructions

  1. Pat the wings completely dry with paper towels. This is the most important step for crispy skin.
  2. In a small bowl, combine the baking powder, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using. Whisk together.
  3. Place the dried wings in a large bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over them and toss with your hands until every piece is evenly coated.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F for 3-5 minutes.
  5. Arrange the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, not overcrowded. Work in batches if needed (about 10-12 pieces per batch).
  6. Cook for 12 minutes undisturbed.
  7. Flip each wing over with tongs and cook for another 10-12 minutes until deep golden brown and crispy. Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
  8. Let the wings rest in the air fryer basket for 2 minutes before serving.
  9. While the wings cook, mix all the ranch dip ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Add buttermilk or milk if too thick. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  10. Serve immediately: arrange wings on a platter with ranch dip on the side. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip drying the wings thoroughly—moisture prevents crispiness. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding. For extra crispiness, cook at 400°F for the last 3-4 minutes. The ranch dip flavors improve after sitting in the fridge for an hour. Leftover wings can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken wings, crispy chicken wings, homemade ranch dip, game day appetizer, easy chicken wings, gluten-free wings, low-carb wings