Summer is the perfect time to gather with friends and family around the grill or picnic table. But sometimes, you want that crispy, flavorful bite of fried chicken wings without firing up the deep fryer or adding extra oil to your cooking. The Ninja XL Air Fryer makes it easy to achieve restaurant-quality wings right in your kitchen or outdoor setup.
This versatile appliance allows you to cook frozen or fresh chicken wings quickly and healthily, delivering a crispy exterior and tender interior every time. Here’s a simple step-by-step recipe to get your summer wing feast started.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja XL Air Fryer
- ✔ Material: Nonstick basket
- ✔ Color: Grey
- ✔ Weight: 11 lbs

Ninja XL Air Fryer with MaxCrisp | 6.5 QT Capacity | 6-in-1 Max Crisp, Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Reheat & Dehydrate | 450°F Temp | 1750 Watts | Nonstick Basket, Crisper Plate & Recipe Guide | Grey | AF181
- Max Crisp Technology: Up to 450°F for crispy results
- 6-in-1 Cooking Functions: Multiple cooking modes including bake and dehydrate
- XL Capacity: 6.5-quart basket, holds large meals
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Preparation and Ingredients
Gather your ingredients and prepare your chicken wings. You can use fresh or frozen wings; the Ninja XL Air Fryer can handle both with its powerful MaxCrisp technology. For seasoning, consider a simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for a classic flavor, or get creative with your favorite dry rub.
- 1.5 to 2 lbs chicken wings
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika)
- Optional: hot sauce, honey, or your favorite dipping sauces
Preheat your Ninja XL Air Fryer to 450°F for optimal crispy results.
Cooking Step-by-Step
- Place the seasoned chicken wings in the nonstick basket, making sure they are spread out evenly for maximum air circulation.
- Insert the basket into the air fryer and select the MaxCrisp setting at 450°F. Cook for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
- Once the wings are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer. Toss with your favorite sauce or serve plain for dipping.
For frozen wings, simply add a few extra minutes, up to 35 minutes total, and shake halfway through. No need to thaw beforehand!
Tips for Perfect Summer Wings
- Use the crisper plate for extra crispy skin and even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; this ensures hot air circulates and crisps all sides evenly.
- Experiment with different seasonings or marinades to match your summer theme.
- Serve wings with chilled beverages and fresh veggie sticks for a complete outdoor snack.
- Clean the nonstick basket and crisper plate with dishwasher-safe ease after your feast.
Additional Uses and Ideas
The Ninja XL Air Fryer isn’t just for wings. Use it to make crispy fries, roasted vegetables, or even dehydrate fruit for a healthy snack. Its large capacity makes it ideal for family gatherings and outdoor parties, providing quick, tasty results with less oil and mess.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja XL Air Fryer

The Ninja XL Air Fryer offers a fast, convenient way to enjoy crispy wings and more during summer gatherings. Its large capacity and versatile functions make outdoor cooking easier and healthier.
Pros:
- Fast cooking with MaxCrisp technology
- Large 6.5-quart capacity
- Oil-free, healthier results
- Easy to clean with dishwasher-safe parts
Cons:
- Takes up counter space
- Requires preheating for best results
- Learning curve for new users
Best for: Family cooks and outdoor entertainers seeking quick, healthy fried foods
Not ideal for: Those with limited counter space or looking for traditional deep frying
Bottom line: A versatile, space-saving air fryer perfect for crispy summer meals.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.