As the mornings get a little crisper and we start looking ahead to fall, there is nothing quite like combining the rich, savory flavor of our farm-fresh chicken with the sweet, tart notes of autumn apples. Our Sticky Apple Cider BBQ Wings are the ultimate bridge between summer cookouts and cozy fall tailgates!

Using an air fryer means you get that perfect, deep-fried crunch without the greasy mess, and this glossy, caramelized cider glaze will have everyone licking their fingers. Grab a pack of our wings this weekend and give this a try!

Prep time: 5 mins | Cook time: 25 mins | Servings: 2-4

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs Farm-fresh chicken wings (flats and drumettes)
• 1 tsp Smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Onion powder
• 1 tsp Kosher salt
• ½ tsp Black pepper
• Optional but recommended: ½ tsp aluminum-free baking powder (helps crisp the skin!)
• ½ cup Apple cider (not apple juice!)
• ½ cup Of your favorite BBQ sauce
• 1 tbsp Apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Prep & Season: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. In a large bowl, toss the wings with the smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and baking powder until evenly coated.
2. Air Fry: Place the wings in the air fryer basket and cook for 20-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until deeply golden brown and crispy.
3. Make the Glaze: While the wings are cooking, combine the apple cider, BBQ sauce, and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it reduces slightly and thickens into a nice, sticky glaze.
4. Toss and Caramelize: Once the wings are crispy, transfer them to a clean bowl and toss them generously with the warm apple cider BBQ sauce.
5. The Sticky Secret: Return the sauce-coated wings to the air fryer for just 2 to 3 more minutes. This caramelizes the sugars in the cider and BBQ sauce, giving you that beautiful, glossy, sticky finish!

🔥 Farm Kitchen Tip for the Perfect Air Fryer Wings: The secret to genuinely crispy skin in an air fryer is all about moisture control! Before seasoning your wings, pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. When adding them to the air fryer, never overlap them in the basket. The hot air needs to circulate freely, so it's always better to cook them in two smaller, well-spaced batches rather than one crowded pile!

Perfect Pairings! Looking to turn these wings into a full meal? They pair beautifully with:

• Creamy Apple & Cabbage Slaw: The crisp, cool crunch of slaw balances the sticky, smoky heat of the wings perfectly.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Pop some in the oven (or air fryer!) with a dash of sea salt.
• Macaroni & Cheese: A rich, homestyle favorite that turns wing night into ultimate comfort food.
• Classic Veggie Sticks: You can't go wrong with fresh celery, carrots, and a side of high-quality blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping!

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