Summer is the perfect time for gatherings and barbecues, but sometimes you want a healthier, fuss-free way to serve crispy snacks. The Ninja XL Air Fryer makes it easy to whip up golden chicken wings with less oil but all the crunch.
Follow this simple step-by-step recipe to impress your friends and enjoy guilt-free, restaurant-style wings at your next summer get-together.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja XL Air Fryer
- ✔ Weight: 14 pounds
- ✔ Dimensions: 14 x 12 x 14 inches
- ✔ Color: Grey

Ninja XL Air Fryer with MaxCrisp | 6.5 QT Capacity | 6-in-1 Max Crisp, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat & Dehydrate | 450°F Temp | 1750 Watts | Nonstick Basket, Crisper Plate & Recipe Guide | 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 with fresh or frozen chicken wings. If frozen, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes for cooking. Pat the wings dry to ensure they get crispy.
- Place the wings in a large bowl.
- Add your favorite seasonings or a simple mixture of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Toss well to evenly coat.
Cooking with the Ninja XL Air Fryer
Preheat the Ninja XL Air Fryer to 450°F using the Max Crisp setting. This high heat delivers that perfect crispy exterior in less time.
- Place the seasoned wings in the nonstick basket in a single layer for even cooking.
- Insert the crisper plate for optimal airflow and crispiness.
- Cook for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning.
Finishing Touches and Serving
Once cooked, check that the wings are golden and crispy. If needed, add a few more minutes. Serve with your favorite summer dips or a side of fresh veggies.
For extra flavor, toss the hot wings in a homemade buffalo sauce or honey glaze before serving. Enjoy with family and friends for a delicious, guilt-free summer snack.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary to keep wings crispy.
- Use the crisper plate to promote even airflow and prevent sogginess.
- For extra crispiness, lightly spray wings with cooking spray before cooking.
- Save leftover wings in the refrigerator and reheat in the air fryer for a fresh-crisp finish.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja XL Air Fryer

The Ninja XL Air Fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance perfect for summer gatherings. Its MaxCrisp technology ensures fast, crispy results with less oil, making it ideal for delicious, guilt-free snacks like chicken wings.
Pros:
- Large 6.5-quart capacity
- Cooks frozen foods quickly
- Easy to clean nonstick parts
- Multiple cooking functions
Cons:
- Takes up counter space
- Requires some pre-planning for batches
- Can be noisy during operation
Best for: Families and friends hosting summer parties or casual get-togethers
Not ideal for: Small kitchens with limited counter space or those seeking a dedicated oven
Bottom line: A versatile, space-saving air fryer that makes summer cooking healthier and easier.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.