Looking to create delicious, crispy chicken wings in your air fryer but not sure what you should cook them on? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the best options for cooking chicken wings in your air fryer, ensuring they turn out perfectly cooked and full of flavor. Whether it’s a rack, skewers, or even just placing them directly on the air fryer basket, we’ve got you covered with all the information you need to achieve the tastiest chicken wings ever. Get ready to elevate your air fryer game and prepare to impress your friends and family with these mouthwatering chicken wings. Let’s get started!
What To Cook Chicken Wings On In Air Fryer
When it comes to cooking chicken wings in an air fryer, it’s important to have the right surface to cook them on. The air fryer works by circulating hot air around the food, giving it that crispy texture without the need for a lot of oil. In order to achieve the perfect result, here are some options for what to cook chicken wings on in an air fryer.
Crisscross wire rack
A crisscross wire rack is a popular choice for cooking chicken wings in an air fryer. The wire rack allows the hot air to circulate evenly around the wings, ensuring they cook evenly and become crispy on all sides. The crisscross design also helps to elevate the wings, allowing any excess fat to drip away from the food. This results in healthier, less greasy wings while still maintaining that delicious flavor.
Flat metal rack
Similar to a crisscross wire rack, a flat metal rack is another option for cooking chicken wings in an air fryer. While it may not provide the same additional support as the crisscross design, a flat metal rack still allows for proper airflow and even cooking. The flat surface ensures that the wings have a consistent contact point with the rack, which can result in a more even browning and crispiness.
Silicone mat
A silicone mat is a versatile option for cooking chicken wings in an air fryer. It provides a non-stick surface that allows the wings to cook evenly without the risk of sticking to the tray or rack. The silicone mat also helps to absorb any excess fat, making the wings healthier and reducing the cleanup process. Additionally, the flexibility of the mat makes it easy to remove the cooked wings without any hassle.
Parchment paper
Parchment paper is a convenient and widely available option for cooking chicken wings in an air fryer. Simply line the bottom of the air fryer basket with a sheet of parchment paper, place the wings on top, and let them cook to perfection. The parchment paper helps to prevent any sticking, allowing you to remove the wings easily once they’re done. It’s important to note that parchment paper should not be placed in direct contact with the heating element of the air fryer.
Foil
Foil is another option for cooking chicken wings in an air fryer. It can be used to line the bottom of the air fryer basket or to create a makeshift rack by shaping it into a tray-like structure. Foil is especially useful if you prefer to cook your wings without any additional oil, as it helps to prevent sticking while still allowing for proper airflow. However, it’s important to handle foil with care and ensure that it doesn’t block the air vents of the air fryer.
Perforated parchment sheets
Perforated parchment sheets are specifically designed for air fryers and can be a great choice for cooking chicken wings. These sheets have small holes that allow for optimal airflow and even cooking. Simply place the perforated parchment sheet on the bottom of the air fryer basket, arrange the wings on top, and let them cook to delicious perfection. The perforations also help to prevent any sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Baking sheet
If you don’t have any specialized racks or mats, a baking sheet can be a suitable option for cooking chicken wings in an air fryer. Choose a baking sheet that fits comfortably in your air fryer basket and place it on the bottom. The baking sheet allows for proper airflow and can help to catch any drippings from the wings. Just be sure to monitor the cooking process closely, as a baking sheet may slightly alter the cooking time compared to other options.
Pizza stone
While it may not be the most conventional choice, a pizza stone can provide a unique cooking surface for chicken wings in an air fryer. The pizza stone helps to absorb excess moisture, giving the wings a crispier texture. Preheat the pizza stone along with the air fryer, then place the wings on top and let them cook. Just be aware that the added weight of the pizza stone may slightly affect the cooking time and require adjustments.
Aluminum foil balls
If you’re looking for a quick and simple solution, aluminum foil balls can do the trick. Simply crumple up several pieces of aluminum foil into small balls and place them on the bottom of the air fryer basket. This creates an elevated surface for the chicken wings, allowing the hot air to circulate around them for even cooking. It’s a makeshift rack that can be easily disposed of after cooking, with minimal cleanup required.
Air fryer basket
Lastly, the air fryer basket itself can be used to cook chicken wings directly. Many air fryers come with a non-stick coating on their baskets, making them a convenient option. Simply place the wings directly in the basket, making sure that they have enough space between each piece to allow for proper airflow. Cooking the wings directly in the air fryer basket eliminates the need for any additional accessories and can result in deliciously crispy wings.
In conclusion, there are several options for what to cook chicken wings on in an air fryer. Whether you prefer a specialized rack, a non-stick surface, or a makeshift solution, there’s a cooking surface that will suit your needs. Experiment with different options and find what works best for you to achieve the perfect crispy and flavorful chicken wings in your air fryer. Happy cooking!