Air fryers are quickly becoming a popular kitchen appliance. They provide a great way to quickly cook delicious and healthy meals without the added fat and calories of deep frying. Air fryers are particularly good for cooking chicken wings, as they create a crispy texture without the need for a lot of oil. But how long should you air fry chicken wings at 400°F?
How Long to Air Fry Chicken Wings at 400
The time it takes to air fry chicken wings at 400°F will depend on the size of the wings, but typically it will take between 15 to 25 minutes. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the wings to ensure they are cooked through.
It’s also important to shake or flip the wings halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking. Some air fryers also have a timer to remind you to check the internal temperature and shake the wings. Once the wings are cooked through, they should be crispy and golden brown.
Factors that Affect Cooking Time
The amount of time it takes to air fry chicken wings at 400°F will depend on several factors. The size and thickness of the wings will affect cooking time, as will the amount of oil used and the type of air fryer.
Size and Thickness
The size and thickness of the chicken wings will affect the cooking time. Larger and thicker wings will take longer to cook, while smaller and thinner wings will cook faster. As a general rule, plan for about 10 minutes of cooking time for each inch of thickness.
Oil
The amount of oil used will also affect the cooking time. If you use a lot of oil, it will take longer for the wings to cook. If you use no oil at all, the wings will cook faster.
Air Fryer Type
The type of air fryer you use can also affect the cooking time. Some air fryers will cook faster than others due to the size of the cooking chamber, the power of the heating element, and other factors.
How to Cook Chicken Wings at 400°F
To cook chicken wings at 400°F, preheat your oven to 400°F and prepare the wings by removing any excess fat and patting them dry. Place the wings on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Flip the wings over and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the wings are golden brown and cooked through. Let the wings cool before serving.
When the wings are done baking, you can season them to your preference. You can brush them with melted butter, garlic or BBQ sauce, or sprinkle them with salt, pepper, or other spices. When you are ready to serve, you can garnish with fresh herbs or squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice on them. Enjoy!
Preheat the Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. Allow the air fryer to preheat for about 5 minutes.
Prepare the Wings
While the air fryer is preheating, prepare the chicken wings. Pat them dry with paper towels, season them with salt, pepper, and other seasonings, and coat them with a light layer of oil.
Place the Wings in the Air Fryer
Once the air fryer is preheated, place the prepared wings in the air fryer basket. Make sure the wings are spaced out so they cook evenly.
Air Fry
Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook the wings for the recommended time. Depending on the size and thickness of the wings, the cooking time should be between 10 and 20 minutes.
Check the Temperature
When the cooking time is up, check the temperature of the wings with an instant-read thermometer. The wings should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If the wings are not cooked through, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Serve
Once the wings are cooked through, remove them from the air fryer and serve. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Wings
If you want perfectly cooked wings every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Adjust the Cooking Time
Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the wings. For each inch of thickness, plan for about 10 minutes of cooking time.
Flip the Wings
If the wings are not cooking evenly, flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
Check the Temperature
The best way to know if the wings are cooked through is to check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. The wings should reach an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
Add Flavor
Air fryers are great for creating crispy wings, but you can add even more flavor with a variety of sauces and seasonings. Marinades, hot sauces, and rubs can all be applied before or after cooking to add flavor to the wings.
Safety Tips
When using an air fryer, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind.
Read the Instructions
Read the instructions for your air fryer before use. Each model is different, so make sure you understand how to use the controls and all of the safety features.
Use Oven Mitts
Always wear oven mitts when handling hot air fryer baskets. The basket will be hot, so it’s important to wear protective gloves to avoid burns.
Keep Away from Children
Air fryers should always be kept out of reach of children. If you have small children in the house, make sure to keep the air fryer in a secure location.
Unplug the Fryer
When you’re finished using the air fryer, make sure to unplug it and allow it to cool before storing it.
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Wings
If you want perfectly cooked wings every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
Check the Basket
Make sure to check the air fryer basket before adding the wings. If the basket is too full, the wings won’t get enough air circulation and won’t cook evenly.
Flip the Wings
If the wings are not cooking evenly, flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
Adjust the Heat
If the wings are cooking too quickly or too slowly, you can adjust the heat of the air fryer. Some air fryers have adjustable temperature settings, while others have a dial that you can use to adjust the heat.
Keep an Eye on the Wings
The best way to ensure perfectly cooked wings is to keep an eye on them while they’re cooking. If they start to look overcooked, you can remove them from the air fryer and let them cool before serving.
Conclusion
Air fryers are a great way to cook delicious and healthy meals quickly and easily. If you’re wondering how long to air fry chicken wings at 400°F, the answer will depend on several factors, including the size and thickness of the wings, the amount of oil used, and the type of air fryer. With the right preparation and a bit of practice, you can be sure to get delicious results every time.
