Summer is the perfect time for outdoor gatherings, and nothing beats serving up a batch of crispy chicken wings without the guilt of deep frying. The Ninja XL Air Fryer makes it easy to achieve that golden crunch with less oil, making your summer parties healthier and more flavorful.
Follow this simple step-by-step recipe to create restaurant-quality wings right in your own outdoor kitchen or patio. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for enjoying with friends and family under the sun.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja XL Air Fryer
- ✔ Weight: 14 pounds
- ✔ Dimensions: 14 x 14 x 14 inches
- ✔ Color: Grey

Ninja Air Fryer XL with MaxCrisp, 6.5 Qt, 6-in-1, Grey, AF181
- Max Crisp Technology: Up to 450°F for crispy results
- 6-in-1 Cooking Functions: Multiple cooking modes including bake and dehydrate
- XL Capacity: 6.5-quart basket for large meals
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Preparing the Chicken Wings
Start by selecting your favorite chicken wings, about 2 to 3 pounds for a family-sized batch. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they get crispy in the air fryer.
For added flavor, toss the wings in a bowl with your preferred seasonings—paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, or a premade wing seasoning blend. For extra crispiness, lightly spray the wings with a bit of cooking spray or drizzle with a teaspoon of oil.
Cooking the Wings in the Ninja XL Air Fryer
Place the seasoned wings into the nonstick basket of the Ninja XL Air Fryer, spreading them out in a single layer for even cooking. Use the Max Crisp setting and set the temperature to 450°F.
Cook the wings for about 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the wings halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and reach that perfect crispy texture. The rapid air circulation will deliver a golden crunch in no time.
Serving and Tips for Best Results
- Once cooked, toss the wings in your favorite hot sauce or glaze for extra flavor.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest results, paired with summer sides like fresh coleslaw or grilled vegetables.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your seasoning mix.
- Use the crisper plate for even better air circulation and crispiness.
- Clean the nonstick basket and crisper plate easily with dishwasher-safe parts after use.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja XL Air Fryer

The Ninja XL Air Fryer combines large capacity with powerful MaxCrisp technology, making it ideal for preparing crispy chicken wings and other summer favorites with less oil and mess. Its 6-in-1 functions and fast cooking time make outdoor cooking effortless.
Pros:
- Large 6.5-quart capacity
- Cooks frozen foods quickly
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
- Versatile 6-in-1 functions
Cons:
- Takes up counter space
- Requires some trial for perfect crispiness
- Can be noisy during operation
Best for: Families and outdoor grillers wanting quick, healthy fried snacks
Not ideal for: Small kitchens or those preferring traditional deep frying
Bottom line: A versatile, large-capacity air fryer perfect for crispy summer snacks and meals.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.