Summer is the perfect time for outdoor gatherings, and nothing beats serving up crispy, flavorful chicken wings straight from your Ninja XL Air Fryer. With its MaxCrisp technology and large capacity, you can prepare a batch that’s crispy on the outside and tender inside, ideal for family or friends.
Follow this easy recipe to enjoy restaurant-quality wings with less oil, perfect for your summer cookout or poolside snack. Let’s walk through the steps to achieve that golden crunch and juicy interior in no time.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja XL Air Fryer
- ✔ Dishwasher Safe: Yes
- ✔ Color: Grey
- ✔ Included Accessories: Recipe guide and cooking charts

Ninja Air Fryer XL with MaxCrisp, 6.5 Qt, 6-in-1, Grey, AF181
- MaxCrisp 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
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Ingredients Needed for Summer-Style Crispy Wings
- 2 lbs of chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or spray
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Optional: hot sauce or BBQ sauce for coating
Prepare all ingredients ahead of time for a quick cooking process on your summer day.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your Ninja XL Air Fryer to 450°F using the MaxCrisp setting.
- In a bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
- Place the seasoned wings in the nonstick basket or on the crisper plate of your air fryer, making sure they are in a single layer for even crisping.
- Set the air fryer to MaxCrisp and cook for 25-30 minutes, shaking or turning the wings halfway through for uniform browning.
- Once crispy and cooked through, remove the wings and toss with hot sauce or BBQ sauce if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite summer sides like coleslaw or grilled vegetables.
Enjoy your crispy, healthier wings with minimal cleanup thanks to the dishwasher-safe nonstick basket and crisper plate.
Tips for Perfect Summer Wings
- For extra crispiness, pat the wings dry before seasoning to remove excess moisture.
- Use a light spray of oil for even browning without excess fat.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; give wings space for rapid air circulation.
- Experiment with different seasonings or sauces to customize your summer snack.
- Serve with chilled drinks and fresh veggies for a complete summer appetizer.
Cleaning and Maintenance
After your feast, simply remove the nonstick basket and crisper plate and wash them in the dishwasher for easy cleanup. Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth to keep your Ninja XL Air Fryer looking great for your next summer cookout.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja XL Air Fryer

The Ninja XL Air Fryer is a versatile and powerful kitchen gadget that makes preparing crispy chicken wings quick and simple, perfect for outdoor summer gatherings. Its MaxCrisp technology ensures fast, even cooking with less oil, delivering restaurant-quality results at home.
Pros:
- Large 6.5-quart capacity
- Fast cooking with MaxCrisp technology
- Easy to clean nonstick parts
- Multiple cooking functions for variety
Cons:
- Takes up counter space
- Learning curve for new users
- Requires preheating for best results
Best for: Families or hosts looking for quick, healthy summer snack options
Not ideal for: Anyone with limited counter space or seeking a traditional deep-fryer experience
Bottom line: A versatile, efficient air fryer perfect for crispy summer snacks and meals.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.