Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Wings

Air fryer teriyaki chicken wings are a delicious, sticky, and flavorful snack or meal that everyone will love. Using an air fryer ensures the wings are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside without the extra oil from deep frying. Tossed in a homemade or store-bought teriyaki glaze, these wings have a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or parties, these wings are easy to make, quick to cook, and endlessly satisfying. The air fryer method not only saves time but also gives you that crispy finish without a greasy mess.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it delivers crispy, juicy wings with bold teriyaki flavor every single time. The air fryer locks in moisture while giving the wings a beautiful golden exterior. The teriyaki sauce clings to each wing, giving every bite a sweet, savory punch. Plus, it’s simple, quick, and perfect for any occasion.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it combines the crunch of perfectly cooked wings with the irresistible flavor of teriyaki glaze. Whether you’re serving it for friends, family, or a cozy night in, these wings are guaranteed to impress. They’re healthier than deep-fried wings but just as flavorful and satisfying.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time (optional but recommended): 30 minutes to 2 hours
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes

Servings and Calories

• Servings: 4 (8–10 wings per serving)
• Calories: ~300 per serving

Course: Appetizer / Main Course

Cuisine: Asian-American

Ingredients

For the Wings:

• 2 lbs (900 g) chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• ½ cup soy sauce (or low-sodium soy sauce)
• 3 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

• Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Wings

1. Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels.
2. Toss wings in a bowl with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.

Step 3: Air Fry the Wings

• Place wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
• Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Step 4: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, honey/brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Bring to a simmer, then add cornstarch slurry and stir until sauce thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Toss Wings in Sauce

• Transfer cooked wings to a large bowl.
• Pour the teriyaki sauce over the wings and toss until fully coated.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

• Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
• Serve immediately for best taste and texture.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as an appetizer or main course.
• Pair with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad.
• Offer extra teriyaki sauce for dipping.

Recipe Tips

• Pat wings dry before air frying to achieve maximum crispiness.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer for even cooking.
• Adjust sweetness or saltiness of teriyaki sauce to taste.
• Flip wings halfway for even cooking and browning.
• Brush additional sauce and air fry 2–3 minutes for a stickier glaze.

Variations

1. Spicy Teriyaki Wings: Add sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce.
2. Garlic Teriyaki Wings: Increase garlic in the sauce for a punchy flavor.
3. Ginger-Lime Wings: Add lime juice and extra ginger for an Asian twist.
4. Sesame Crunch Wings: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and crushed peanuts before serving.
5. Honey-Soy Glaze: Swap part of the soy sauce for more honey for a sweeter glaze.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked wings in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Small saucepan
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups

Conclusion

Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Wings are crispy, juicy, and packed with sweet-savory flavor. They’re easy to prepare, healthier than fried wings, and perfect for any occasion. Quick, flavorful, and customizable, these wings are a must-try for chicken lovers and anyone craving a delicious Asian-inspired snack or meal.