Crispy chicken wings are always a favourite, especially when they combine a crunchy coating with a deliciously sticky sauce. These hot honey chicken wings bring together Cajun-inspired spices, golden chicken skin and a sweet glaze with a fiery kick.

The secret lies in using rice flour, cornflour and baking powder to create an exceptionally crisp exterior. An air fryer makes preparation easier, delivering beautifully browned wings without the need for deep-frying.

Finished with warm, spicy honey, these wings are perfect for family gatherings, weekend dinners or sharing with friends.

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 20–24 minutes

Total time: Approximately 40 minutes

Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

900g chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes

2 tbsp Cajun-style honey seasoning, divided

65g rice flour

30g cornflour (cornstarch)

1 tbsp baking powder

Avocado oil spray

80–120ml hot honey

For a homemade alternative to prepared Cajun honey seasoning, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt and a small amount of brown sugar.

The quantities can be adjusted according to personal preference, particularly if you enjoy a stronger chilli flavour.

How To Make Hot Honey Wings

Step 1: Prepare The Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C. Allow it to reach the correct temperature before adding the chicken, as this helps the coating begin crisping immediately.

Pat the chicken wings dry with kitchen paper. Removing excess moisture helps create a crunchier finish.

Step 2: Season The Chicken

Place the wings in a large bowl or resealable food bag. Add 1 tablespoon of Cajun honey seasoning and toss thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Prepare The Crispy Coating

In a separate bowl, combine the rice flour, cornflour, baking powder and remaining tablespoon of seasoning.

Mix until the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Add the seasoned chicken wings and toss gently until coated. Shake off any excess flour mixture to prevent a thick, powdery crust.

Step 4: Air Fry Until Golden

Arrange the wings in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each piece.

Lightly spray with avocado oil.

Cook for approximately 20–24 minutes, turning halfway through, until the wings are golden, crisp and fully cooked.

The thickest part of the chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 74°C. Larger wings may need additional cooking time.

Step 5: Add The Hot Honey

Transfer the freshly cooked wings to a clean mixing bowl.

Pour over 80ml of hot honey and toss gently until the wings are coated in a glossy glaze.

Add more honey if you prefer a sweeter, stickier finish.

Serve immediately while the coating remains crisp.

Tips For Extra Crispy Wings

Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches allows hot air to circulate around each wing, helping the coating brown evenly.

Rice flour produces a delicate crunch, while cornflour contributes to a lighter texture. Baking powder helps the surface develop a crisp finish during cooking.

For the best results, add the honey glaze immediately before serving. Leaving coated wings standing for too long can soften their crunchy exterior.

What To Serve With The Wings

These sweet and spicy wings pair beautifully with refreshing side dishes.

Try serving them with crunchy coleslaw, cucumber salad, roasted potatoes or fresh vegetable sticks.

A cooling yoghurt-based dip also works well, particularly when the honey glaze contains plenty of chilli.

Leftover wings can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three to four days. Reheat thoroughly in the air fryer until piping hot, although the glaze may make the coating less crisp.

With their irresistible combination of sweet honey, warming spices and golden crunch, these wings are an easy way to make an everyday chicken dinner feel special.