Name: Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 12 pieces chicken drumettes; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 3 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something special about the aroma of Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? I remember the first time I made them; I could hardly wait for those tender, crispy wings to emerge from the air fryer. It was a busy weeknight, and I was looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. As I prepped the ingredients, I felt excitement building up, knowing that sweet and tangy honey and Dijon mustard would soon coat my juicy chicken. The best part? I could whip these up in less than half an hour! Gathering around the dinner table with family, I served those wings hot and crispy, and every bite was pure bliss.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
22 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Air Fryer, Parchment Paper

Why This Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings Shines

Quick and Easy

The convenience of making Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings is unparalleled. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready almost instantly. Who doesn’t appreciate a quick dish at the end of a long day?

Flavor Explosion

The combination of honey and Dijon mustard creates an incredible balance of sweetness and tanginess. This flavor profile enhances the crispy exterior of the wings, ensuring every bite is packed with layers of taste. You’ll find yourself craving them again and again.

Healthy Twist

Using an air fryer means you can enjoy crispy wings without the guilt that comes with deep frying. You’ll be amazed at how this method retains the juiciness of the chicken while reducing the amount of oil needed for cooking. It’s a great way to indulge without compromising your health goals.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, these wings are a hit. They can be an appetizer, a main dish, or even a game-day snack. They adapt seamlessly to any occasion, making them a versatile choice in your recipe arsenal.

Customizable

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized. Want it spicier? Just add more cayenne pepper. Prefer a different flavor? Experiment with other sauces! The base recipe is solid, allowing for endless variations to suit your tastes.

Kid-Friendly

Kids love wings, and the Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings are no exception. The sweet and tangy flavor is appealing to younger palates, making dinner time less of a chore and more of a family-friendly feast.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings

These ingredients come together beautifully to create an irresistible dish. The key players here are the chicken drumettes and the zesty combination of Dijon mustard and honey. Each ingredient plays a vital role, ensuring a tasty and satisfying experience.

12 chicken drumettes – These are the stars of the show, providing a juicy and tender bite. Make sure to choose fresh ones for the best flavor.
1/4 cup Dijon mustard – This adds a sharp, tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the honey.
3 tablespoons honey – Sweetness is essential in this dish, and honey gives that glossy finish that makes the wings irresistible.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter – This helps to create a rich sauce that clings beautifully to the wings.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – A subtle flavor enhancer that complements the other ingredients.
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper – For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this adds the perfect kick.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.

How to Prepare Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings

Making Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings is a breeze, and you’ll love how quickly they come together. Just follow these detailed steps for perfectly cooked wings that are bursting with flavor.

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees F. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior that we all love. As the air fryer heats up, you can prepare the chicken.
Next, add your chicken drumettes to the basket of the air fryer. Ensure they are spread out evenly for proper cooking. Cook them for 8 minutes without disturbing them; you want them to get nice and crispy.
After 8 minutes, carefully flip the chicken drumettes using tongs. Cook them for another 8 minutes. At this point, you should start to smell the delicious aroma filling your kitchen.
Check the wings for doneness. They should be crispy and fully cooked. If they don’t seem crispy enough, you can cook for another 2 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
While the wings are cooking, prepare the sauce. In a 12-inch skillet, combine Dijon mustard, honey, unsalted butter, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt. Warm the mixture over medium heat until it starts to bubble slightly; then, remove it from the heat.
Once the wings are done, transfer them to the skillet with the honey mustard mixture. Toss the wings gently in the sauce to ensure they’re fully coated. The combination of flavors will create a mouthwatering glaze that’s hard to resist.
For an extra touch, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top for added heat before serving. This little addition can elevate the dish and impress your guests!
Now your Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings are ready to enjoy! Serve them hot and watch everyone dive into the deliciousness.

Things Worth Knowing

Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking for even cooking.
For extra crispy wings, consider lightly dusting them with cornstarch before cooking.
Experiment with different honey varieties for unique flavors.
Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; this ensures even cooking.

Recipe Notes about Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings

Here are some useful tips to make the most out of your Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings experience.

Storage: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked wings; place them in a single layer to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw and reheat in the air fryer.
Pairing: Serve with fresh veggies and a dip, or alongside a light salad for a balanced meal.
Cooking Tip: If you prefer sweeter wings, increase the amount of honey slightly.
Serving Suggestion: These wings are perfect for game days or as an appetizer at gatherings.

Serve This Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings With

If you’re looking to create a full meal around your Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings, consider these delightful pairings:

Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the wings.
Vegetable Sticks: Serve with sliced cucumbers, carrots, and celery for a crunchy side.
Sweet Potato Fries: These add a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the honey mustard.
Rice: A side of fluffy rice can absorb the extra sauce, making every bite enjoyable.
Dip it: Offer a tangy ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.
Occasions: Perfect for parties, game day, or a cozy family dinner—these wings fit any setting.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken drumettes! However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Typically, you should increase the cooking duration by about 5 to 10 minutes, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. It’s always a good idea to check for doneness with a meat thermometer.

If you don’t have Dijon mustard on hand, you can use yellow mustard, though it will give a different flavor profile. For a similar taste, you might also mix yellow mustard with a touch of vinegar to replicate the tanginess of Dijon. Experimenting with different mustards can yield delightful variations to the recipe!

To store leftover Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can last up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the air fryer at 350 degrees F for about 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. This helps retain their delicious texture!

Absolutely! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the wings in the oven. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F and arrange the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Conclusion

The Air Fryer Honey Mustard Chicken Wings are truly a delightful dish that brings together quick preparation, fantastic flavors, and the joy of cooking. They are perfect for whipping up on a busy weeknight or serving at a gathering. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed. With every crispy, tangy bite, you and your loved ones will be savoring a truly special treat.