Spicy Grilled Chicken Wings (Air Fryer)
Crispy & Chewy Spicy Chicken Wings (Drumettes) Grilled in an Air Fryer
These chicken wings boast a delightfully spicy and chewy texture that’s absolutely irresistible. Perfect for snacking or as a delicious accompaniment to your favorite drinks!
Main Ingredients- Chicken wings 350g
- Cajun seasoning 1/2 Tbsp
- Smoked paprika powder 1 Tbsp
- Thyme (dried herb) 1/2 Tbsp
- Nutmeg 2 tsp
- Pink salt 2 tsp
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Important tip: Do not wash the chicken wings! Washing raw chicken can spread harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter, which can cause food poisoning. Instead, pat the chicken wings thoroughly dry with paper towels. These bacteria are eliminated safely when cooked at temperatures above 75°C (165°F).
Step 2
To help the marinade penetrate deeply into the meat, gently prick the chicken wings all over with a fork. Now, let’s prepare the delicious seasoning. In a bowl, combine 1/2 Tbsp of Cajun seasoning, 1 Tbsp of smoked paprika powder, 1/2 Tbsp of dried thyme, 2 tsp of nutmeg, and 2 tsp of pink salt. Mix them well.
Step 3
Add the chicken wings to the bowl with the seasoning mixture. Gently massage the marinade into the wings with your hands, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let the marinated chicken wings rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop. For an even richer taste, you can marinate them overnight before cooking.
Step 4
Before placing the chicken wings in the air fryer basket, it’s a good idea to lightly spray the basket with cooking oil or line it with parchment paper that has perforations. This prevents the chicken from sticking. (Avoid using solid parchment paper, as it traps the chicken fat, leading to soggy wings!) Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, flip the wings and continue to cook for another 10 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5
Voilà! Your spicy and chewy chicken wings are ready. They’re beautifully golden and crispy on the outside, with juicy and tender meat inside. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of savory flavor and a hint of spice. Enjoy them while they’re warm!
