Air Fryer Sticky Sesame Garlic Chicken Wings are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a glossy, sticky sauce that’s packed with garlicky, savory-sweet flavor. These wings are the kind of comfort food that brings everyone into the kitchen the moment they’re done cooking.
As a mom and wife, I love recipes like this because they feel indulgent and fun, yet they’re so easy to make at home. Whether it’s a family movie night, game day, or a simple weeknight treat, these wings always disappear fast.
Why You’ll Love These Sticky Chicken Wings
- Crispy wings made easily in the air fryer
- Sticky, sweet, garlicky sesame sauce
- No deep frying or messy oil
- Perfect for parties, snacks, or dinner
- Family-friendly with adjustable sweetness and heat
They’re bold, flavorful, and seriously addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Wings
- 2 pounds chicken wings, split and tips removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Sticky Sesame Garlic Sauce
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
For Garnish
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
How to Make Air Fryer Sticky Sesame Garlic Chicken Wings
Step 1: Season the Wings
Pat the wings completely dry. Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Air Fry the Wings
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C).
Arrange wings in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 22–25 minutes, flipping every 8–10 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 3: Make the Sticky Sauce
While the wings cook, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until thick and glossy.
Step 4: Toss and Finish
Transfer cooked wings to a large bowl and pour the sticky sauce over them. Toss until fully coated. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Serve immediately while hot and sticky.
Tips for Extra Crispy Wings
- Dry the wings well before seasoning
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket
- Flip wings during cooking for even crisping
- Toss in sauce after cooking, not before
- Serve right away for best texture
These simple tips make all the difference.
For more chicken cooking tips, don’t miss my full air fryer chicken recipe guide.
Easy Variations
- Add chili flakes or sriracha for heat
- Swap honey for maple syrup
- Use coconut aminos for a soy-free option
- Finish with a squeeze of lime for brightness
- Add a splash of hoisin for deeper flavor
You can easily adjust the sauce to suit your family’s taste.
What to Serve With Sticky Sesame Garlic Wings
- Steamed rice or fried rice
- Simple cucumber or cabbage slaw
- Air-fried veggies
- Corn on the cob or roasted potatoes
They pair well with both fresh and hearty sides.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F to re-crisp
- Avoid microwaving to keep wings crispy
- Sauce can be stored separately if desired
FAQs About Air Fryer Sticky Sesame Garlic Chicken Wings
- Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking for best results. - How do I make them extra crispy?
Dry wings well and cook in batches without overcrowding. - Are these very sweet?
They’re balanced, not overly sweet. You can reduce honey if preferred. - Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes, store it in the fridge and reheat gently before tossing. - Can I use drumsticks instead?
Absolutely, just increase cooking time slightly.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Sticky Sesame Garlic Chicken Wings are crispy, sticky, and packed with flavor. They’re the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary evening into something special, without extra effort or cleanup.
As a mom, I love having recipes like this — fun, flavorful, and always a hit with the whole family.
