Craving crispy wings without the grease? This teriyaki chicken wings air fryer recipe is your solution. Juicy on the inside, golden on the outside, and glazed in a rich, sticky teriyaki sauce—these wings check all the boxes. Using your air fryer means faster cook time, less mess, and fewer calories without sacrificing flavor.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to marinate, cook, and glaze wings to perfection. Whether you’re meal prepping or hosting game night, these air fryer wings are guaranteed crowd-pleasers.
Table of Contents
Teriyaki Chicken Wings Air Fryer Recipe – Crispy, Sticky & Flavor-Packed
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 wings 1x
Description
Craving crispy wings without the grease? These Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Wings are the answer. Juicy inside, golden and crisp outside, and coated in a sticky-sweet teriyaki glaze, they deliver serious flavor with less mess and fewer calories. Quick to make and perfect for game night, parties, or meal prep, they’ll become your new go-to wing recipe.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
2 lbs party-style chicken wings (flats and drumettes)
1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade – see below)
Cooking spray or oil mist (for the air fryer basket)
Optional Garnishes:
Toasted sesame seeds
Sliced green onions
Homemade Teriyaki Sauce (optional):
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
¼ cup brown sugar or honey
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
Instructions
Instructions:
Make Teriyaki Sauce (if homemade): In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, sugar/honey, vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Simmer for 5 minutes. Mix cornstarch with water, add to sauce, and stir until thickened. Set aside.
Marinate Wings: Place chicken wings in a bowl or zip-top bag and pour in half the teriyaki sauce. Toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours in the fridge).
Preheat Air Fryer: Set air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3–5 minutes.
Air Fry the Wings: Lightly spray air fryer basket with oil. Arrange wings in a single layer (cook in batches if needed). Cook for 12–14 minutes, flip, then cook another 8–10 minutes or until wings are crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Glaze Wings: Remove wings and toss or brush with remaining teriyaki sauce. For extra caramelization, return to air fryer for 2–3 minutes.
Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve hot with rice, noodles, or your favorite sides.
Notes
Don’t skip the flip—turning the wings halfway through ensures even crispiness.
Want it spicier? Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the glaze.
For meal prep, pair with rice and steamed veggies and store in containers for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–6 minutes to retain texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Calories: 310
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 24g
Why Teriyaki Chicken Wings Air Fryer Style Are a Must-Try
Air frying gives you the crisp texture of deep-fried wings with a fraction of the oil. The circulating heat crisps the skin fast, while keeping the chicken tender inside.
Air frying is not just convenient—it’s also a healthier choice. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) encourages using lower-fat cooking methods like air frying to reduce calorie and fat intake, making teriyaki chicken wings air fryer a better option than traditional deep-fried wings.
Why you’ll love it:
- Less oil and fewer calories
- Quick and even cooking in 20–25 minutes
- Easy cleanup with no grease splatter
What makes teriyaki chicken wings air fryer style unbeatable is the sauce. That sweet-savory teriyaki glaze clings to the crispy skin, caramelizing slightly for a bold, sticky finish. Whether store-bought or homemade, teriyaki adds flavor that transforms basic wings into a restaurant-style meal.
Once you try this method, it’ll become your go-to for wing night.
Essential Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken Wings
Choosing the Right Wings for Air Frying
For the best results, go with party-style chicken wings—these are already separated into flats and drumettes, making them ideal for even cooking in the air fryer. If you’re starting with whole wings, simply cut at the joint to separate them.
Whether fresh or frozen, make sure to pat them dry before seasoning. Moisture can prevent that crispy skin you’re after when cooking teriyaki chicken wings air fryer style.
Homemade vs Store-Bought Teriyaki Sauce
You can’t go wrong with either, but your choice affects flavor and control.
Store-bought sauces (like Kikkoman or Soy Vay) are quick and consistent. Look for options labeled “thick” or “glaze” to ensure good cling to the wings.
Want more control over sugar or sodium? Make your own.
Basic Homemade Teriyaki Sauce:
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar or honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp fresh ginger (grated)
- 1 tsp cornstarch (mixed with water for thickening)
Simmer everything for 5 minutes until slightly thick. This version gives your teriyaki chicken wings air fryer a clean, bold flavor with no additives.
For more fast and flavorful weeknight ideas like these teriyaki chicken wings air fryer, visit our Quick & Easy Meals section.
Marinating Your Wings for the Best Flavor
How to Marinate Chicken Wings in Teriyaki Sauce
If you want your teriyaki chicken wings air fryer style to taste as bold as they look, marinating is a must. Whether you’re using homemade or bottled teriyaki sauce, this step helps the flavor soak into every bite.
Place the wings in a large bowl or a zip-top bag. Add enough teriyaki sauce to fully coat them. Toss until all pieces are evenly covered. If using a bag, seal it, press out the air, and massage the wings to make sure the sauce reaches every surface.
The marinade acts as both flavor booster and glaze foundation when cooking teriyaki chicken wings in the air fryer.
How Long to Marinate Before Air Frying
Timing matters. Too little, and the flavor stays on the surface. Too long, and the texture can turn soft or mushy.
Ideal Marination Times:
- Quick Option: 30 minutes
- Best Range: 2 to 4 hours in the fridge
- Limit: No more than 8 hours
Even a short marinade adds flavor, but for that deep umami-rich taste, aim for at least an hour. If you’re in a rush, just coat the wings right before air frying and brush on extra sauce during the final minutes. It still delivers great results for your teriyaki chicken wings air fryer recipe.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Wings in the Air Fryer
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Teriyaki Wings
Making teriyaki chicken wings air fryer style is easier than you think. Once your wings are marinated, the air fryer takes over, delivering golden skin and tender meat in just a few simple steps.
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the wings in a single layer—don’t overcrowd. Cook in batches if needed.
- Air fry for 12–14 minutes, then flip each wing.
- Cook an additional 8–10 minutes, until the wings are crispy and reach an internal temp of 165°F.
- Remove and toss the wings in fresh teriyaki sauce or brush them generously for a sticky finish.
You can also return the wings to the air fryer for 2–3 minutes after glazing if you want the sauce to caramelize slightly.
Air Fryer Cooking Chart for Wings
| Wing Size | Temp | Time (Total) | Flip? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small/Medium | 375°F | 20–22 mins | Yes |
| Large/Thick | 375°F | 24–26 mins | Yes |
Always check doneness with a meat thermometer. The key to perfect teriyaki chicken wings air fryer cooked is crispy skin without drying the inside.
The USDA outlines the importance of proper poultry handling from purchase to leftovers. To store teriyaki chicken wings air fryer safely, refrigerate within two hours of cooking and use airtight containers to avoid bacterial growth. Following these guidelines helps maintain flavor and food safety for days after preparation.
When to Add Teriyaki Sauce to Wings
Before or After Air Frying: What Works Best?
The best results for teriyaki chicken wings air fryer recipes come from a balance—some sauce before cooking, more after. But timing is key. Adding teriyaki sauce too early can cause the sugars to burn, while adding it too late won’t allow it to stick and caramelize.
Best Practice:
- Before Cooking: Lightly marinate or coat wings with a thin layer of teriyaki sauce. Avoid using too much—just enough to flavor without pooling.
- After Cooking: Once wings are crispy and fully cooked, toss or brush them in fresh teriyaki sauce for a glossy, sticky finish.
Want that caramelized, restaurant-style look? After saucing, return the wings to the air fryer for 2–3 minutes at 375°F. This helps thicken the glaze and locks it onto the skin.
The Glaze Technique That Sticks
For that perfect sticky layer, heat extra teriyaki sauce in a pan with a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water). Let it simmer until thick. Then brush it over the wings just before serving.
This step adds bold flavor and gives your teriyaki chicken wings air fryer version a pro-level look and taste.
Flavor Variations and Add-Ons
Put a Twist on Teriyaki Chicken Wings Air Fryer Style
When you’ve mastered the classic, it’s time to get creative. With just a few extra ingredients, your teriyaki chicken wings air fryer recipe can take on totally new flavors—while staying easy and fast.
Try These Flavor Boosts:
- Spicy Teriyaki Wings: Stir in sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat that balances the sweetness.
- Honey Garlic Teriyaki: Add honey and minced garlic for a bold, sticky glaze that clings to the wings.
- Sesame Ginger: A bit of sesame oil and fresh grated ginger gives your wings a deeper, richer flavor.
- Pineapple Teriyaki: Mix in pineapple juice for a tropical-style teriyaki chicken wings air fryer dish with sweet, fruity notes.
No matter your variation, this method keeps the wings crispy, flavorful, and perfectly glazed every time.
Toppings to Finish the Wings
A good garnish goes a long way. These simple toppings work beautifully with the sweet-savory profile of air fryer teriyaki chicken wings:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Thin-sliced green onion
- Crushed red pepper
- Light drizzle of chili oil or teriyaki reduction
Finish your wings with one or more of these for a restaurant-style plate that looks as good as it tastes.
These air fryer teriyaki chicken thighs come out crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and dripping with a sticky-sweet glaze that’s perfect every time.
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Wings
What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken Wings Air Fryer Style
These wings are packed with flavor, so the best sides should complement—not compete. Whether you’re going casual or full dinner plate, pair your teriyaki chicken wings air fryer recipe with light, balanced sides.
Popular Pairings:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice – Soaks up the extra glaze perfectly
- Garlic Noodles or Rice Noodles – Adds a chewy texture to balance the crispy wings
- Asian Slaw – Crunchy and tangy with sesame dressing
- Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans – Keeps things light and adds fiber
- Pickled Veggies – Cuts the richness with sharp, bright notes
Whether you’re prepping for the week or planning tonight’s meal, our Lunch & Dinner section has plenty of flavorful options to pair with your chicken.
These options let the wings shine while turning your plate into a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
Party-Style or Meal Prep? No Problem
Air fryer teriyaki chicken wings also work great as appetizers or meal-prepped proteins. For a gathering, serve them on a platter with toothpicks, sesame seeds, and a bowl of extra glaze for dipping.
For meal prep:
- Divide wings into containers with rice and steamed vegetables
- Store in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–6 minutes to bring back the crisp
Storing and Reheating Teriyaki Wings
How to Store Teriyaki Chicken Wings Air Fryer Style
Proper storage helps preserve both texture and taste. Whether you made a big batch or saved a few from dinner, here’s how to store your teriyaki chicken wings air fryer leftovers the right way.
Storage Tips:
- Cool wings first: Let them reach room temperature before refrigerating.
- Use airtight containers: Keeps moisture in and fridge odors out.
- Separate the sauce (if possible): Store extra teriyaki glaze in a small container to reapply later.
Shelf Life:
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (sealed) | 3–4 days | Keep away from moisture buildup |
| Freezer (wrapped tightly) | Up to 2 months | Thaw overnight before reheating |
Reheating Without Losing Crisp
When reheating air fryer teriyaki chicken wings, the goal is to bring back the crisp—not turn them soggy.
Reheating Methods:
- Air Fryer: 350°F for 5–6 minutes. Flip halfway for even texture.
- Oven: Bake at 375°F for 10 minutes, uncovered.
- Microwave (least ideal): Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts.
For best flavor, brush the wings with reserved teriyaki glaze after reheating. This refreshes both the look and taste of your teriyaki chicken wings air fryer leftovers.
Don’t miss our full recipe for Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken for another twist on this delicious classic.
FAQs – Teriyaki Chicken Wings Air Fryer Style
Should I sauce my wings before air frying?
It depends on the type of sauce. For teriyaki chicken wings air fryer recipes, it’s best to marinate the wings lightly before cooking, but apply most of the sauce after air frying. This prevents burning and keeps the glaze sticky, not charred.
How do you cook chicken in the air fryer with teriyaki sauce?
Start by marinating your wings in teriyaki sauce for 1–4 hours. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F, then cook the wings for about 22–24 minutes, flipping halfway. After cooking, toss them in fresh teriyaki sauce or brush it on, then air fry for an additional 2–3 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
Can I cook marinated chicken wings in an air fryer?
Yes, marinated wings cook well in the air fryer. Just make sure they’re not dripping in sauce to avoid smoke or burning. For teriyaki chicken wings air fryer style, pat off excess marinade before cooking and finish with sauce after.
Can I use teriyaki sauce for chicken wings?
Absolutely. Teriyaki sauce is ideal for wings because it balances sweet and savory, and caramelizes beautifully in high heat. Whether store-bought or homemade, it enhances flavor without overpowering the crisp texture of the wings.
Does teriyaki sauce go on before or after cooking?
Apply a light amount before cooking (for flavor), but save the bulk of the glaze for after air frying. This technique helps you avoid burning sugars and delivers that sticky, glossy coating teriyaki chicken wings air fryer are known for.
Do you put sauce on chicken wings before or after you cook them?
For best results, do both. Marinate or season the wings before cooking, then apply the final sauce after air frying. This locks in flavor and gives the wings a rich finish.
Conclusion: Crispy, Sticky, and Packed with Flavor
If you’re looking for a wing recipe that delivers serious flavor without the fuss, teriyaki chicken wings air fryer style are your answer. They’re crispy without deep frying, sticky without being too sweet, and incredibly easy to pull off—perfect for weeknight meals, parties, or anytime you’re craving something bold and satisfying.
From prep to plate in under 30 minutes, these wings give you all the texture and taste of your favorite takeout—but healthier, faster, and made right in your own kitchen. With endless variations, side pairings, and reheating tips, they’re a guaranteed hit every time.