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.

Teriyaki Chicken Wings Air Fryer – Best 5-Step Crispy Recipe

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

Scale

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)

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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