Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor gatherings with delicious, crispy snacks that won’t weigh you down. The Ninja XL Air Fryer makes it easy to whip up hot, crunchy chicken wings that are healthier than deep-fried versions.
Follow this simple step-by-step guide to prepare, cook, and serve irresistible wings for your next summer cookout or backyard party.
Our top pick at a glance

Ninja XL Air Fryer
- ✔ Dimensions: 14 x 11 x 14 inches
- ✔ Weight: 12 pounds
- ✔ Color: Grey

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 for large meals
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Preparing the Chicken Wings
Start with fresh or frozen chicken wings—no need to thaw if using the Ninja XL Air Fryer’s MaxCrisp setting for quick results. Pat the wings dry with paper towels to ensure they get crispy.
- In a bowl, toss the wings with your favorite dry seasoning or marinade.
- For extra crispiness, lightly coat the wings with a bit of oil or cooking spray.
This preparation ensures even cooking and a golden, crunchy finish.
Cooking the Wings in the Ninja XL Air Fryer
Place the wings in the nonstick basket of your Ninja XL Air Fryer, spreading them out in a single layer without overcrowding for even airflow.
- Set the air fryer to the Max Crisp mode at 450°F.
- Cook the wings for approximately 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for uniform crisping.
- Use the recipe guide included for specific times if you’re using different wing sizes or marinades.
The rapid air circulation ensures a restaurant-quality crunch without excess oil.
Serving and Tips for Perfect Wings
Once cooked, let the wings rest for a few minutes before serving. Toss them with your favorite hot sauce, BBQ sauce, or a sprinkle of herbs for added flavor.
To keep wings warm at outdoor gatherings, use the Reheat function on your Ninja XL Air Fryer for a quick refresh. For extra crispness, reheat at 400°F for 3-5 minutes.
Tip: Serve with veggie sticks, dips, or a fresh summer salad for a balanced, crowd-pleasing meal.
Cleaning and Maintenance
After enjoying your wings, remove the nonstick basket and crisper plate. Both are dishwasher safe, making cleanup effortless. Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth to keep your Ninja XL Air Fryer looking its best.
Regular cleaning helps maintain optimal performance and prolongs the lifespan of your appliance.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja XL Air Fryer

The Ninja XL Air Fryer combines large capacity with rapid, even cooking to produce perfect, guilt-free chicken wings for summer gatherings. Its versatile functions and easy cleanup make it a must-have for outdoor entertaining.
Pros:
- Up to 450°F for crispy results
- Large 6.5-quart capacity
- Cooks frozen foods fast
- Easy to clean nonstick parts
Cons:
- Can be bulky for small kitchens
- Requires some space for placement
- Cooking times vary with batch size
Best for: Families and outdoor hosts looking for quick, healthy wing recipes
Not ideal for: Those with very limited counter space or minimal cooking needs
Bottom line: A versatile, large-capacity air fryer perfect for crispy summer snacks and family meals.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.