Summer is the perfect time for outdoor gatherings and game days, and nothing beats serving up crispy, flavorful chicken wings straight from the air fryer. The Ninja XL Air Fryer makes it simple to prepare these crowd-pleasers with less oil and maximum crunch.
Follow this step-by-step guide to create perfectly crispy chicken wings that are tender inside and irresistibly golden outside, all with minimal fuss and cleanup.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja XL Air Fryer
- ✔ Material: Grey plastic and metal
- ✔ Dimensions: Compact footprint
- ✔ Warranty: Included with purchase
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: Air fry, roast, bake, reheat, dehydrate
- XL Capacity: 6.5-quart basket, holds 5 lbs fries
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Preparing the Chicken Wings
Start by selecting fresh or frozen chicken wings. Pat them dry if fresh to ensure maximum crispiness. If frozen, no need to thaw—your Ninja XL Air Fryer’s MaxCrisp technology will handle it efficiently.
- In a large bowl, toss the wings with your favorite seasonings or marinade. For a classic flavor, use salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- If you want extra crisp, lightly coat the wings with a small amount of oil or cooking spray before placing them in the basket.
Cooking in the Ninja XL Air Fryer
Place the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding for even cooking. Select the Max Crisp function and set the temperature to 450°F.
Cook the wings for approximately 25-30 minutes, shaking or flipping them halfway through to ensure an even, crispy exterior. The powerful MaxCrisp technology will deliver restaurant-quality crunch with less fat.
Check for doneness—wings should be golden and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. For extra crispness, cook an additional 3-5 minutes as needed.
Tips for Perfect Summer Wings
- For added flavor, toss cooked wings in your favorite hot sauce or herb dressing after frying.
- Use the included crisper plate to elevate the wings and promote even airflow and crispiness.
- Serve immediately with cooling dips like ranch or blue cheese to complement the crispy texture.
Cleanup and Storage
Once cooled, remove the nonstick basket and crisper plate. Both are dishwasher safe, making cleanup quick and easy after your summer feast. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, then reheat in the air fryer for a quick snack.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja XL Air Fryer
The Ninja XL Air Fryer with MaxCrisp technology enables you to prepare deliciously crispy chicken wings quickly and healthily, perfect for summer gatherings. Its XL capacity and versatile functions make it a must-have for outdoor and indoor cooking alike.
Pros:
- Fast cooking with MaxCrisp technology
- Large 6.5-quart capacity
- Removable nonstick, dishwasher-safe parts
- Multiple cooking functions
Cons:
- Can be bulky on small countertops
- Requires some space for airflow
- May need occasional shaking for even crisping
Best for: Families or hosts looking for quick, healthy summer snacks
Not ideal for: Those with limited counter space or seeking purely traditional frying
Bottom line: Effortlessly make crispy, healthier chicken wings perfect for summer gatherings.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
