Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings
The air fryer has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason! It allows you to create crispy, delicious dishes without the excess oil typically required for frying. Today, we’re diving into a mouthwatering recipe for Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings. These wings are not only succulent and packed with flavor, but they also bring a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess that will have you reaching for more. Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or a cozy night in, these wings are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
Once you try these Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings, you’ll find yourself craving them again and again. Here’s why they’re destined to become a staple in your kitchen:
- Speedy Cooking: The air fryer cooks these wings in a fraction of the time it would take to bake or fry them.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey and Dijon mustard creates a sweet and tangy glaze that perfectly complements the savory chicken.
- Healthier Option: With less oil than traditional frying, you can indulge without the guilt.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even as a main dish alongside your favorite sides.
Your Shopping Guide
Before you gather your ingredients, here’s a handy shopping list to ensure you have everything you need for these delicious Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings:
- Chicken Drumettes (12 pieces): These are the star of the dish, and their tender meat is perfect for soaking up the honey mustard glaze.
- Dijon Mustard (1/4 cup): Adds a zesty tang that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of honey.
- Honey (3 tablespoons): Provides the sweet element that balances the dish.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons): Helps to create a rich, flavorful coating on the wings.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor profile with a hint of savory goodness.
- Cayenne Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a touch of heat to the wings.
- Kosher Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning the wings perfectly.
Must-Have Equipment
To make these Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings, you’ll need a few essential pieces of equipment:
- Air Fryer: The key appliance for creating crispy wings without the oil.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the glaze ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Tongs: To flip and serve the wings easily.
- Cooking Spray: To lightly coat the air fryer basket, ensuring the wings don’t stick.
Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings in Steps
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to make your own Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by rinsing the chicken drumettes under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting that crispy exterior.
Step 2: Make the Honey Mustard Glaze
In a mixing bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, melted unsalted butter, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Add the dried chicken drumettes to the bowl with the honey mustard glaze. Toss the chicken until each piece is completely coated in the sauce.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. This will ensure that your wings cook evenly and get that lovely crispy texture.
Step 5: Arrange the Wings
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the coated chicken drumettes in a single layer in the basket, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. If you have too many, cook them in batches.
Step 6: Air Fry the Wings
Cook the wings in the air fryer for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This will allow for even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
Step 7: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C). If necessary, cook for an additional few minutes until they reach the desired temperature.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, remove the wings from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them warm, drizzled with extra honey mustard sauce if desired, and enjoy the delicious flavors!
No-Store Runs Needed
You might be wondering if you can make these Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings without a trip to the grocery store. Well, here’s a list of common pantry staples that you might already have on hand:
- Dijon Mustard
- Honey
- Unsalted Butter
- Garlic Powder
- Cayenne Pepper
- Kosher Salt
If you already have chicken drumettes in your freezer, you’re all set to whip up this tasty dish!
Chef’s Notes
- Feel free to adjust the level of cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit it.
- For an added depth of flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey mustard glaze for a couple of hours or overnight in the fridge before cooking.
- Experiment with different types of mustard, such as whole grain or spicy brown, for a unique twist on the sauce.
- If you like your wings extra crispy, consider giving them a quick broil in the oven for a couple of minutes after air frying.
Storing Tips & Timelines
If you have any leftover Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings (though we doubt it!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigeration: Place the wings in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, allow the wings to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Popular Questions
Can I use chicken wings instead of drumettes?
Absolutely! You can use chicken wings instead of drumettes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How do I make these wings spicier?
If you love heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the honey mustard glaze for an extra kick!
What should I serve with these wings?
These wings pair perfectly with a variety of sides, such as celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese.
Can I bake these wings instead of using the air fryer?
Yes, you can bake these wings in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have everything you need to create these scrumptious Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! Not only will you be rewarded with a delectable dish, but you’ll also impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. So, grab your air fryer and let the cooking adventure begin!
These wings are bound to become a household favorite, combining ease, flavor, and that perfect crunch that makes chicken wings so irresistible. Enjoy every bite!
Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by rinsing the chicken drumettes under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for getting that crispy exterior.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Dijon mustard, honey, melted unsalted butter, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add the dried chicken drumettes to the bowl with the honey mustard glaze. Toss the chicken until each piece is completely coated in the sauce.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. This will ensure that your wings cook evenly and get that lovely crispy texture.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the coated chicken drumettes in a single layer in the basket, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. If you have too many, cook them in batches.
- Cook the wings in the air fryer for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This will allow for even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C). If necessary, cook for an additional few minutes until they reach the desired temperature.
- Once done, remove the wings from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them warm, drizzled with extra honey mustard sauce if desired, and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference; reduce or omit for milder wings.
- Marinate chicken in the honey mustard glaze for a couple of hours for added flavor.
- Experiment with different types of mustard for a unique twist.
- For extra crispy wings, broil in the oven for a couple of minutes after air frying.
