The smell of crispy, garlicky chicken used to mean someone was frying on the porch. Now? It’s whisper quiet inside, thanks to the Ninja Foodi. These Ninja Foodi Chicken Wings are blowing up on TikTokand for good reason. With easy prep, golden crunch, and no grease bath, they’re a modern twist on a nostalgic classic.
These wings deliver a crave-worthy combination of salty, sweet, and spicy flavors: think garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a touch of brown sugar. Simple pantry staples come together for wings that are juicy inside and perfectly crisp outsidelike your favorite sports bar platter, but cozier and cleaner to make. Full step-by-step details are below.
I grew up watching Uncle Dave baste wings during backyard BBQshe believed in low and slow. I’ve tested a faster way with fewer dishes, and the Ninja Foodi nails it. Just wait till you discover the twist I snuck into the seasoning mixit’s a game-changer.
Why You’ll Love These Ninja Foodi Chicken Wings
If cravings for salty-sweet, garlicky wings strike, these are sure to be your new go-to. Here’s what makes them shine:
Crispier and Quicker: Ninja Foodi’s SteamCrisp tech delivers golden, crackly skinwithout the mess of deep frying.
Bold but Balanced Flavors: Paprika, garlic powder, dry mustard, and optional cayenne give just the right kick without overwhelming.
Comfort Food Feels: These wings capture that backyard BBQ nostalgia in a fraction of the time.
Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’re new to the Ninja Foodi, this recipe walks you through it allno specialty skills required.
What You’ll Need
Everything comes from your pantry or weekly grocery runno fancy items required. This simple list delivers big flavor fast.
Ingredient
Notes
2 pounds fresh chicken wings
Roughly 8 full wings, separated. Pat dry thoroughly for extra crispiness.
2 teaspoons baking powder
Key to a crackly skinacts as a leavening agent that helps dry and crisp the skin.
1 tablespoon brown sugar
Brings a caramelized, sweet counterpoint to the spice.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Imparts deep smoky flavorfeel free to sub chipotle if you like more heat.
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Classic wing flavor and a savory backbone to the blend.
1 teaspoon salt + ½ teaspoon black pepper
Essential seasoning that rounds everything out.
¼ teaspoon dry mustard
Brightens and balances with gentle tang.
¼ teaspoon ground cayenne (optional)
Use if you prefer a touch of bold heat. Adjust to taste.
½ cup water
Needed for the SteamCrisp functionno skipping!
How to Make Ninja Foodi Chicken Wings: Step-by-Step
Toss the guessworkthis guide takes you from prep to perfectly cooked wings in 30 minutes flat (plus marinating time).
Prep the Wings: Use kitchen shears or a sharp knife to separate each wing at the joint into flats and drumettes. Pat dry with paper towelsthis step is crucial for crispy skin.
Add the Baking Powder: In a large bowl, toss the wings with baking powder evenly. This coating is what helps the wings crisp up beautifully.
Make the Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne. Sprinkle the mix over the wings and use your hands to ensure all surfaces are seasoned.
Marinade Chill: Place the seasoned wings on a wire rack or plate and refrigerate uncovered for 20–30 minutes (or up to overnight) to help dry out the skin.
Get Your Foodi Ready: Pour ½ cup of water into the Ninja Foodi’s gray inner pot. Insert the black air fryer basket. Arrange wings in a single layer, leaving space between them for proper crisping.
SteamCrisp Cook: Select the SteamCrisp function, set it to 390°F, and cook for 15 minutes. Flip the wings at 7-8 minutes to ensure even golden brown results.
Pro Tip: For extra crunch, air crisp for 3–5 more minutes after the initial cycle. Don’t overcrowdgood airflow is key.
Quick Timing Chart
Step
Time
Prep & Season
15 minutes
Rest (in fridge)
20–30 minutes
Cook in Foodi
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes (without resting)
Serving & Storage Tips
Serving: Serve piping hot for best texture. Great alongside ranch, blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, or crispy potato wedges. Ideal for game nights, cookouts, or weeknight comfort dinners.
Storage: Allow wings to cool completely before storing. Keep in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 3 days.
Reheat: Preheat your Ninja Foodi to 350°F and air crisp wings for 2–3 minutes, or until hot and crispy again.
Achieving crispy, juicy chicken wings in the Ninja Foodi relies on precise temperature control and airflow. With SteamCrisp mode, you get the best of both techniquesmoisture locked inside from steaming and an irresistible crunch from air frying. This dual-cook method cuts down time while preserving all the flavor that traditional wings offer.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!
Mastering Ninja Foodi Chicken Wings, One Crispy Batch at a Time
After testing countless versionssome too soft, others a bit overdoneI finally landed on this crispy-skin, juicy meat combo. The toasty, garlicky aroma coming from the Foodi made every trial worth it. This final version balances nostalgic flavor with modern technique and is officially taste-tester approved.
FAQs ( Ninja Foodi Chicken Wings )
How long do Ninja Foodi chicken wings take to cook?
Ninja Foodi chicken wings typically take about 25-30 minutes total cooking time. You’ll pressure cook them for 10-12 minutes, then air crisp for 8-10 minutes to get that perfect crispy skin. The exact time may vary depending on the size of your wings and how crispy you prefer them. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
Do you need to flip chicken wings in Ninja Foodi?
Yes, you should flip your chicken wings halfway through the air crisping phase for even browning. After pressure cooking, when you switch to air crisp mode, flip the wings at about the 4-5 minute mark. This ensures both sides get beautifully golden and crispy. Don’t worry about flipping during pressure cooking – the steam does all the work there!
Can you cook frozen chicken wings in Ninja Foodi?
Absolutely! You can cook frozen chicken wings directly in your Ninja Foodi without thawing. Just add 3-4 extra minutes to the pressure cooking time, making it 13-16 minutes instead of 10-12. Make sure to separate any wings that are stuck together before cooking. The air crisping time remains the same, and you’ll still get deliciously crispy results.
What liquid do you use for Ninja Foodi chicken wings?
You need at least 1 cup of liquid for pressure cooking chicken wings in the Ninja Foodi. Water works perfectly fine, but you can also use chicken broth for extra flavor. Some people like to add a splash of hot sauce or soy sauce to the liquid for additional taste. The liquid creates the steam needed for pressure cooking, so don’t skip this important step!
Why are my Ninja Foodi chicken wings not crispy?
If your wings aren’t crispy enough, try patting them completely dry before seasoning and make sure you’re using the air crisp function after pressure cooking. Don’t overcrowd the basket – wings need space for air circulation. You can also increase the air crisp time by 2-3 minutes or bump up the temperature to 400°F. A light coating of baking powder on the skin before cooking can also help achieve extra crispiness!
Wrapping Up Your Ninja Foodi Chicken Wings
These Ninja Foodi Chicken Wings are speedy, crispy, and absolutely satisfying. They bring bold flavor and cozy comfort with minimal cleanupand they’re just as good for a party platter as a solo snack.
Try swapping the smoked paprika for chipotle powder to add a smoky heat, or toss with a dash of your favorite hot sauce after cooking for a saucier finish. Fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives also give a bright contrast that complements the richness.
Test it out and tell me how it went! Did you go for extra crispy or keep it classic? Whether it sparked memories of backyard cookouts or started a brand-new tradition, I’d love to hear your spin. From my Foodi to yourshappy cooking!
Thomas Baker
Ninja Foodi Chicken Wings: Easy and Delicious Magic
These Ninja Foodi chicken wings are perfectly seasoned with a crispy skin, making them ideal for a main course or a quick and tasty appetizer. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this American favorite.
¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper don’t use it if you don’t want spicy
½ cup water
Method
Unpack your chicken wings. Pat dry and trim them.
With a knife separate the drumette from the flat.
Sprinkle the baking powder over the trimmed chicken. Set aside.
In a small bowl combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, ground black pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper. Mix until all combined.
Sprinkle the seasonings mixture/rub evenly on the wings. Gently rub the seasonings to coat every piece.
Once all the chicken is coated with the spices, place back in the fridge for 20-30 minutes or overnight.
In the Ninja Foodi inner bowl pour ½ cup water.
Place the air fryer basket in the Ninja Foodi and arrange the chicken wings in a single layer.
Set the Ninja Foodi to SteamCrisp, Steam & Crisp, temperature 390°F for 15 minutes.
Flip the wings halfway through cooking.
Serve and enjoy!
Notes
To reheat wings, preheat your air fryer to 350°F and heat wings for 2-3 minutes until hot.
