Make crispy Ninja Speedi Chicken Wings (also works in an Air Fryer or Ninja Foodi) from frozen wings
Ready for a quick, delicious snack or meal? These chicken wings turn out crispy and flavorful when cooked from frozen using the Air Fryer function on a Ninja Speedi, Ninja Foodi, or any air fryer.
Any appliance with an air fryer function will work—the method and timing below are easy to follow.
Can you cook frozen chicken wings in an air fryer?
Yes. This recipe starts from frozen wings. The first air-fry step partially thaws them so you can season and finish them to a crispy, golden exterior. If you prefer to cook fully frozen wings without the intermediate step, use a recipe specifically for no-thaw wings, which usually requires a longer cook time.
What is a Ninja Speedi?
The Ninja Speedi is a rapid cooker from SharkNinja that combines multiple cooking functions and includes an Air Fryer mode. It’s similar to the Ninja Foodi but doesn’t have a pressure-cooking function. If you own a Speedi, use its Air Fryer setting for this recipe; otherwise, a standard air fryer or Ninja Foodi works equally well.
The instructions are the same across machines when using the Air Fryer function.
Tips for perfectly crispy wings
Do not overcrowd the basket. Leave room between wings so hot air can circulate freely—this is essential for even cooking and crisping.
Cooked chicken should reach a safe internal temperature. Aim for at least 165°F, but many cooks prefer 175–180°F for tender, fully rendered wings; check with a meat thermometer to be sure.
If the wings look dry or powdery after seasoning, a light spritz of oil (grapeseed or another neutral oil) will help them brown and crisp nicely.
Note: This recipe is written for wings cooked from frozen. If your wings are already thawed, skip the initial defrosting step and adjust timing as needed.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese.
Why use cornstarch on wings?
Coating wings with a bit of cornstarch helps create a crispier skin when air frying. It’s optional, but it makes a noticeable difference in texture.
Ninja Speedi Chicken Wings
Ingredients
- 2 Pounds Frozen Chicken Wings
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 Tsp Paprika
- 1 Tsp Lemon Pepper
- 1 Tsp Ranch Powder
- 1 Tsp Salt
- 2 Tbsp Cornstarch (optional for extra crispiness)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer or Ninja Speedi to 400°F for 3 minutes.
- Place the frozen wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer (do not overcrowd).
- Air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes to partially defrost and start cooking.
- Remove the wings and transfer to a large bowl. Empty any accumulated water from the basket.
- Toss the wings with olive oil, then sprinkle on paprika, lemon pepper, ranch powder, salt, and cornstarch if using. Use large spoons to mix carefully—the wings will be hot.
- Return the wings to the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry at 400°F for 7 minutes, then flip the wings.
- Air fry an additional 6–7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 175–180°F for fully rendered, tender wings.
- Remove the wings and let rest briefly. Serve hot and enjoy.
Video
Notes
If your air fryer maxes at 390°F, use that temperature and follow the same timing. Always verify doneness with a meat thermometer.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 | Calories: 355 kcal | Carbohydrates: 5 g | Protein: 23 g | Fat: 27 g
