Summer is the perfect time for outdoor gatherings, and nothing beats the taste of crispy chicken wings shared with friends and family. With the Ninja XL Air Fryer, you can whip up these delicious bites quickly and healthily, right on your countertop.
This guide will walk you through a simple, step-by-step recipe to achieve restaurant-quality wings with maximum crispiness using the Ninja XL Air Fryer’s MaxCrisp technology.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja XL Air Fryer
- ✔ Dishwasher Safe: Yes
- ✔ Color: Grey
- ✔ Model: AF181
Amazon Product B0CS3V8M9H
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Preparing Your Chicken Wings
- Start with 2 to 3 pounds of fresh or frozen chicken wings. If frozen, use the MaxCrisp setting for quick thawing and crisping.
- Pat the wings dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the wings with your favorite seasoning or marinade, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Cooking the Wings in Your Ninja XL Air Fryer
- Preheat the Ninja XL Air Fryer to 450°F using the MaxCrisp function for about 3 minutes.
- Place the seasoned wings in the nonstick basket or crisper plate, making sure they are in a single layer for even cooking.
- Set the air fryer to MaxCrisp and cook for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the wings halfway through for uniform crispiness.
Serving and Tips for Perfect Wings
- Once cooked, let the wings rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle.
- Serve with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese.
- For extra flavor, toss cooked wings in a sauce or glaze post-cooking, such as buffalo or honey mustard.
- Tips: Do not overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary for best results. Use the crisper plate for extra crispness and easy cleanup.
Cleaning and Maintenance
After your feast, remove the nonstick basket and crisper plate, and wash them in warm, soapy water or place them in the dishwasher for effortless cleanup. Wipe the exterior of the air fryer with a damp cloth to keep it looking new.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja XL Air Fryer

The Ninja XL Air Fryer makes summer gatherings easier with quick, crispy, and healthier chicken wings. Its MaxCrisp technology ensures restaurant-quality results every time, with minimal oil and fuss.
Pros:
- Quick and even cooking with MaxCrisp technology
- Large 6.5-quart capacity ideal for family meals
- Easy to clean nonstick parts
Cons:
- Takes up counter space even in small kitchens
- Requires shaking or flipping for even crispiness
- Frying in batches can be necessary for large quantities
Best for: Home cooks wanting healthier, crispy summer snacks
Not ideal for: Those looking for a traditional deep-fryer experience
Bottom line: A versatile air fryer perfect for crispy summer wings and more.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.