Summer is the perfect time for backyard gatherings and delicious, finger-licking foods like crispy chicken wings. With the Ninja XL Air Fryer, you can achieve that perfect crunch with less oil and in less time, making it an ideal appliance for summer entertaining.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a simple recipe to prepare crispy chicken wings using the Ninja XL Air Fryer’s MaxCrisp technology, along with handy tips to ensure your wings turn out golden and flavorful every time.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja XL Air Fryer
- ✔ Color: Grey
- ✔ Dimensions: Compact footprint
- ✔ Warranty: Included
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Preparing Your Chicken Wings
Start by selecting fresh or frozen chicken wings. If frozen, the Ninja Air Fryer can cook them straight from the freezer, saving you time. Pat the wings dry to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispier skin.
Next, season your wings with your favorite spices or a simple salt and pepper rub. For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder, paprika, or a splash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix.
For an extra crispy coating, lightly toss the wings in a small amount of oil or a baking powder mixture, which enhances browning and crunch.
Cooking Steps for Perfect Summer Wings
- Preheat the Ninja XL Air Fryer to 450°F using the MaxCrisp setting for the best crispy results.
- Place the seasoned wings into the nonstick basket or crisper plate, ensuring they are in a single layer for even cooking.
- Cook for approximately 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the wings halfway through to promote uniform crisping.
- Check for doneness—wings should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Once cooked, toss the wings in your favorite sauce or serve as-is for a healthier option.
Use the dehydrate function to make crispy veggie chips or fruit slices as a colorful summer addition to your spread.
Tips for the Best Summer Chicken Wings
- For extra crunch, spray the wings lightly with nonstick spray before cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket—leave space between wings to allow hot air to circulate for maximum crispiness.
- Use the included recipe guide and cooking charts to experiment with different flavors and cooking times.
- Serve wings immediately for the best texture, or keep warm in the oven if preparing in advance.
- Pair your wings with summer sides like fresh salads, grilled veggies, or chilled drinks for a complete meal.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja XL Air Fryer

The Ninja XL Air Fryer makes it easy to prepare healthier, crispy chicken wings with minimal oil. Its XL capacity and fast cooking make it perfect for summer gatherings and family meals.
Pros:
- Quick and even cooking with MaxCrisp technology
- Large 6.5-quart capacity for family-sized batches
- Versatile 6-in-1 functions including dehydrate and roast
- Easy to clean and dishwasher safe parts
Cons:
- May require multiple batches for large gatherings
- Crisping might vary with different seasoning methods
- Requires some space on the countertop
Best for: Families and hosts looking for quick, healthier summer recipes
Not ideal for: Small households or those seeking traditional deep-frying experience
Bottom line: A versatile, efficient air fryer perfect for crispy summer meals.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.