Name: Crispy Old Bay Air Fryer Wings Everyone Will Love
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Wings (Provides the main protein component); Salt (Adjust to taste); Pepper (Adjust to taste); Old Bay Seasoning (Iconic spice blend for flavor); Olive Oil Spray (For crispy exterior); Honey (Adds sweetness); Hot Sauce (Adjust for spice level); Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for extra heat)

The sound of sizzling chicken in the air fryer always brings back a rush of warm memories from my time experimenting in the kitchen. Today, I’m excited to share my latest triumph—Air Fryer Honey Old Bay Wings! Perfectly crispy and infused with the bold flavors of Old Bay seasoning paired with sweet, hot honey, these wings are not just a crowd-pleaser; they’re a game changer for quick weeknight dinners. In just 25 minutes, you can savor a dish that balances savory, sweet, and spicy all in one bite. Plus, the air fryer gives you that satisfying crunch without the guilt of frying. Curious how to whip up this finger-licking goodness in your own kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe and elevate your next meal!

Why Are These Wings So Irresistible?

Crispy Texture: The air fryer cooks these wings to perfection, producing a golden-brown crunch that appeals to everyone.

Bold Flavor: Combined Old Bay seasoning and the sweetness of honey create a unique taste experience that transforms ordinary wings into a flavor sensation.

Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from prep to serving, these wings save you time while delivering delicious results.

Versatile Dish: Whether for game day or a casual dinner, they fit any occasion. Serve them with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese for an added touch.

Healthy Option: Enjoy this guilt-free indulgence knowing each serving is packed with flavor without the excess oil of traditional frying methods. Try these Crispy Dry Rub Chicken Wings for another delightful twist!

Old Bay Air Fryer Wings Ingredients

For the Wings
• Chicken Wings – About 1 pound provides a satisfying main protein component.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall flavor; adjust to your taste.
• Old Bay Seasoning – This iconic spice blend infuses the wings with a characteristic taste; if unavailable, any seafood seasoning works as a substitute.
• Olive Oil Spray – A light spritz aids in achieving that crispy exterior; opt for a healthier option to your preference.

For the Hot Honey Sauce
• Honey – Adds a delightful sweetness and serves as the base for the sauce.
• Hot Sauce – Provides that necessary spicy kick; feel free to adjust according to your heat tolerance.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional but adds an extra layer of heat to the sauce; modify based on your taste preferences.

Enjoy making these crispy Old Bay air fryer wings that will surely impress your guests!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old Bay Air Fryer Wings

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Old Bay air fryer wings start cooking right away and develop that delightful crispy texture. Allow about 5 minutes for the air fryer to reach the desired temperature; you’ll know it’s ready when you hear a slight hum and see the heat indicator light.

Step 2: Season the Chicken Wings
In a large mixing bowl, take your 1 pound of chicken wings and add salt, pepper, and a generous dusting of Old Bay seasoning. Toss the wings thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated with the flavorful seasoning mix. A good visual cue is the wings looking well-coated and aromatic, ready to take on that delicious crunch.

Step 3: Prepare for Air Frying
Carefully place the seasoned chicken wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Ensure not to overcrowd them, as air circulation is key to achieving that golden crispiness. Lightly spritz the wings with olive oil spray to enhance browning; you’ll see the oil glistening on the surface as they prepare for cooking.

Step 4: Air Fry the Wings
Set your air fryer to cook for 20 minutes. At the 10-minute mark, pause the fryer and flip the wings to promote even cooking and crispness. Continue air frying until the wings are crispy and golden, checking for that perfect crunch that you can see and hear as they cook.

Step 5: Finish with Extra Flavor
Once the wings are cooked to perfection, transfer them to a serving plate. For an extra flavor boost, generously sprinkle additional Old Bay seasoning over the wings. The aroma will be irresistible, and the visual appeal will be hard to resist, with those golden brown wings glistening.

Step 6: Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture until well-combined and heated through, about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it bubbles slightly and creates a smooth sauce that will complement your crispy Old Bay air fryer wings perfectly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Drizzle the hot honey sauce over the wings or serve it on the side for dipping. Pair these delicious Old Bay air fryer wings with your favorite sides, like celery sticks or dipping sauces such as ranch or blue cheese. The combination of flavors and textures will elevate your meal to a delightful experience!

What to Serve with Quick and Crispy Honey Old Bay Wings

The perfect side dishes can elevate your Air Fryer Honey Old Bay Wings to a delightful feast that tantalizes your taste buds and satisfies your cravings.

Crispy French Fries: The salty crunch complements the honey wings perfectly, creating a satisfying blend of flavors and textures.
Celery and Carrot Sticks: Fresh, crunchy veggies provide a cool contrast, making them a classic accompaniment and perfect for dipping in ranch or blue cheese.
Coleslaw: Creamy and tangy coleslaw balances the spicy sweetness of the wings, adding a refreshing element to your meal.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky bread offers a deliciously savory contrast, perfect for soaking up any remaining hot honey sauce.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn adds a joyful pop of flavor and a delightful crunch, making it a great summer side.
Beer or Hard Cider: Pairing your wings with a refreshing beer or crisp hard cider enhances the overall flavor profile, making every bite more enjoyable.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, these warm, gooey cookies offer a delightful contrast to the savory wings, celebrating the balance of flavors in your meal.

Enjoy assembling your perfect feast around those crispy Old Bay air fryer wings!

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Honey Old Bay Wings are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen during busy weeknights! You can season the wings with salt, pepper, and Old Bay up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container to maintain their flavor and prevent browning. Additionally, you can prepare the hot honey sauce and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, cook the prepared wings directly from the fridge, air frying them for about 20 minutes, and drizzle with the reheated hot honey sauce for delicious results that are just as perfectly crispy and flavorful as if made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Old Bay Air Fryer Wings

Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will keep them fresh and flavorful for your next meal.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wings in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Be sure to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. You can also use an oven, but the air fryer works best!

Serving Tips: For extra flavor, consider drizzling more hot honey sauce over the wings after reheating. Enjoy the same delicious taste of your Old Bay air fryer wings even days later!

Old Bay Air Fryer Wings Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your wings for a unique flavor experience!

Cajun Spice: Swap the Old Bay seasoning for Cajun seasoning to add a spicy, Southern twist. You’ll be dancing with the bold flavors that evoke the soul of New Orleans!
Buffalo Style: For a kick of tanginess, use buffalo sauce instead of the honey sauce. The heat from the buffalo sauce marries beautifully with the crispy wings, creating a zesty delight.
Honey Garlic: Mix honey with minced garlic and a splash of soy sauce for an Asian-inspired twist. This concoction brings a rich sweetness and umami that is truly addictive.
Herb Infusion: Toss the wings with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a refreshing taste. Not only does this add a pop of color, but the herbs will impart a lovely fragrance as they cook.
Lemon Pepper: Replace Old Bay with lemon pepper seasoning for a zesty twist that brightens up every bite. The citrusy flavor elevates a classic recipe into something wonderfully refreshing!
Sweet and Spicy: Add brown sugar and sriracha to your hot honey sauce for an extra layer of flavor. The sweetness balances out the heat, creating an irresistible, finger-licking sauce you’ll want to drizzle on everything!
Tandoori Style: For a fusion take, use tandoori spices instead of Old Bay and serve with a yogurt-based dipping sauce. This combination offers a rich, aromatic twist that your guests will adore.

Embrace these options and find your perfect wing combination! Don’t forget to check out my tips for making crispy wings and give my Crispy Dry Rub Chicken Wings a try for even more flavorful inspiration!

Expert Tips for Old Bay Air Fryer Wings

Evenly Coated: Make sure each wing is well-coated with Old Bay seasoning; this ensures that every bite is full of flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd: Place wings in a single layer to allow for proper airflow; overcrowding can lead to soggy wings instead of crispy Old Bay air fryer wings.
Adjust Cooking Time: For larger or smaller wings, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Larger wings may need additional time, whereas smaller ones will cook faster.
Rest Before Serving: Let the wings rest for a couple of minutes before serving to lock in juices and improve crispiness.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to substitute Old Bay with your favorite seasoning blend for a personal twist that suits your taste preferences.

Old Bay Air Fryer Wings Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken wings?
Absolutely! Look for wings that are plump and moist without any desiccated edges. The skin should be nice and smooth, not torn. Fresh wings will have a pink hue, while avoid any that have a grayish tint or strong odor. If possible, opt for organic or free-range for a richer flavor.

How should I store leftover Old Bay air fryer wings?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation. This will maintain their crispiness and flavor, making your next meal just as delicious!

Can I freeze Old Bay air fryer wings?
Certainly! To freeze, place wings in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. They can be kept for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-4 minutes until heated through.

What should I do if my wings aren’t crispy enough?
If your wings aren’t as crispy as you’d like, try these steps: First, ensure they are arranged in a single layer without overcrowding. Next, you can spritz them lightly with olive oil before air frying, and don’t forget to flip them halfway through cooking. If they’re still not as crisp, you can add an additional couple of minutes to the cooking time, checking frequently for desired texture.

Are there any dietary considerations I need to be aware of?
Very! If you or your guests have allergies, take note that Old Bay seasoning contains celery salt, amongst other spices, which can trigger allergies in some individuals. You can easily substitute with a homemade seasoning mix if allergies are a concern. Additionally, if serving to pets, avoid giving them the wings as the seasoning may not be safe for them.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover wings while keeping them crispy?
The best way to reheat leftover Old Bay air fryer wings is to preheat your air fryer to 350°F and heat the wings for about 3-4 minutes. This method helps restore their crispiness, making them just as delightful as when they were freshly made. Enjoy every flavorful bite!