When a craving for something uniquely delicious hits, you often find yourself rummaging through options that seem all too familiar. But what if I told you that the classic peanut butter and jelly combo could take a daring turn? Enter my Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings—a dish that combines the nostalgia of childhood snacks with the comfort of crispy chicken. Picture the tender wings, perfectly coated, and infused with a sweet and savory sauce that marries creamy peanut butter and luscious grape jelly.
Inspired by a late-night snack attack, I ventured into my kitchen and crafted this crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy. In just 30 minutes, you can serve up these scrumptious wings, impressing friends and family while breaking free from the monotony of fast food. With the air fryer doing the heavy lifting, you can relish in the joy of homemade goodness without the hassle. So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that could very well become your new go-to for game nights or casual get-togethers!
Why are Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings so special?
Unique Flavor Fusion: This recipe takes the classic PB&J and transforms it into a savory treat that surprises and delights the palate.
Quick & Easy: With just 30 minutes total time, you can whip up a standout dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re hosting a game night or a casual get-together, these wings are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.
Healthy Twist: Cooking in the air fryer provides a satisfying crunch without excessive oil, making these wings a guilt-free indulgence.
Versatile Options: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, and feel free to customize the sauce with your favorite spices to personalize the flavor.
You can also discover more easy and unique air fryer recipes to diversify your meal options!
Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings Ingredients
For the Wings
• 5 lbs wings – cut into flats & drummies (discard the wing tip for better texture)
• Oil – for spritzing to achieve that golden, crispy finish
For the Coating
• 1/2 cup flour – helps create a crunchy outer layer
• 2 tbs baking powder – adds fluffiness and enhances crispiness
• 1/4 cup mashed potato flakes – a secret ingredient for extra crunch
• 1 tsp salt – brings all the flavors together
• 1/2 tsp pepper – adds a mild kick
For the Sauce
• 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter – the star of our Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings, bringing creaminess
• 1/2 cup grape jelly – offers a sweet, fruity contrast to the savory wings
• 2 tsp sesame oil – enriching the sauce with a nutty flavor
• 1 tsp Sriracha – adds a delightful heat, adjust based on your spice preference
• 3 cloves garlic – minced for aromatic depth
• 2 tbs rice vinegar – for a splash of acidity that balances the sweetness
• 3 tbs soy sauce – adds umami and enhances the overall flavor profile
How to Make Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings
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Combine Coating: In a large bowl or plastic bag, mix together the flour, baking powder, mashed potato flakes, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful coating for your wings.
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Coat Wings: Take your chicken wings and toss them in the flour mixture until they are evenly coated. Make sure every wing is well-covered for that perfect crunch!
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Prepare Air Fryer: Place the coated wings in the air fryer basket. Spritz them lightly with oil to help achieve that beautiful golden-brown texture.
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Air Fry Wings: Cook the wings at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness all around.
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Oven Option: If you prefer the oven, arrange the wings on a lined baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes, flipping them midway for consistent cooking.
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Mix Sauce: In a large bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, grape jelly, sesame oil, Sriracha, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and soy sauce until smooth and well-combined.
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Toss Wings: Once the wings are cooked, remove them from the air fryer or oven and immediately toss them in the sauce mixture. Coat every wing thoroughly for maximum flavor.
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Serve: Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings while they are hot, and watch them disappear at your next gathering!
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings
Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through, to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Serving Suggestions: If you plan to serve them later, consider tossing the wings in the sauce just before serving to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings
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Perfect Coating: Ensure the wings are fully covered in the flour mixture for that irresistible crunch. Uneven coating can lead to soggy spots.
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Temperature Control: Always preheat your air fryer for crispy results. Skipping this step can result in unevenly cooked wings.
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Flip Midway: Turn your wings halfway through cooking to achieve an even browning. This little step can elevate your Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings to perfection!
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Customize the Sauce: Don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness or spiciness of the sauce based on your preference. It’s all about making these wings your own!
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Serve Immediately: For the best experience, enjoy the wings right after tossing them in the sauce. They lose their crispiness if left to sit too long!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can coat the wings with the flour mixture up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crispiness. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook the wings as directed and toss them in the pre-made sauce right after cooking. This will ensure that your wings stay just as delicious and flavorful while saving you precious time during busy weeknights. Enjoy the ease of having a delightful meal ready with minimal effort!
Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings Variations
Unlock the potential of this delightful recipe with exciting twists and adaptations that cater to your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add an extra tablespoon of Sriracha to the sauce for those who love a fiery kick. It’s a game-changer that’ll tantalize your taste buds!
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Sweet Heat: Mix in a drizzle of honey or agave syrup into the sauce for a sweet and spicy flavor profile that enhances the wings.
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Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative that still promises creamy goodness. It’s just as delightful!
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Fruit Fusion: Experiment with different fruity jellies like strawberry or raspberry to change the flavor, giving your wings a unique and fruity twist. Embrace the variety!
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Crispy Parmesan: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the coating mixture for a savory, cheesy crunch. The combination of flavors will impress everyone around the table.
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Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the coating for an aromatic lift that adds an earthy note to your wings.
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Baked Variation: Try baking your wings by seasoning them with a mix of spices and herbs instead of the PB&J sauce for a more traditional but equally tasty experience.
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Vegetarian Twist: Use cauliflower wings instead of chicken for a vegetarian-friendly option that’s just as crunchy and flavorful when coated and baked! Enjoy guilt-free indulgence!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings?
Creating a memorable meal that complements these uniquely delicious wings is easier than you think.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These add a delightful crunch and mild sweetness, pairing perfectly with the savory flavors of the wings. Serve them alongside for a well-rounded enjoyment.
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Coleslaw: The tangy and crunchy elements of coleslaw offer a refreshing contrast that cuts through the richness of the wings. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate some veggies!
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of warm bread is a comforting addition that provides a satisfying texture to every bite. It’s perfect for savoring the extra sauce!
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Carrot and Celery Sticks: Crunchy and refreshing, these sticks are the classic accompaniment to wings, offering a crisp bite that balances out the dish. Pair them with your favorite dip for an extra kick!
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Fruit Salad: A light, sweet fruit salad with berries and melons provides a refreshing burst that complements the savory sauce beautifully. Its bright flavors will elevate your meal!
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Peanut Butter Cookies: For a delightful dessert that ties your meal together, whip up some soft peanut butter cookies. Their nostalgic flavor echoes the wings’ sweet and savory twist.
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Craft Beer: A cold, hoppy craft beer pairs wonderfully, cutting through the richness while enhancing the adventure of flavors in your meal. Try experimenting with different brews!
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea will cleanse the palate between bites, making each mouthful of wings as enjoyable as the last.
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Chocolate Mousse: For a decadent finish, serve a silky chocolate mousse that offers luxurious sweetness, perfectly balancing the savory hero of your evening!
Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings Recipe FAQs
What type of wings should I use for the Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings?
Absolutely! It’s best to use fresh chicken wings cut into flats and drummettes, discarding the wing tip. The freshness of the wings directly affects their texture and flavor in this recipe, ensuring that every bite is juicy and delicious.
How should I store leftover Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings?
For simple storage, place the leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge. They will maintain their excellent taste and texture for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep them tightly sealed, so they don’t absorb other flavors in your fridge!
Can I freeze my Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings?
Yes, you can! To freeze the wings, first lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. This method helps prevent them from sticking together, allowing you to take out just what you need later.
What’s the best way to reheat Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings?
The best method to revive their crispiness after freezing is to reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will make them crispy without becoming soggy, which often happens when using a microwave. You’ll be amazed how well they hold up!
Are there any dietary considerations I should know?
Very! If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily adjust the recipe. For instance, use gluten-free flour for the coating to make the wings gluten-free. Also, keep an eye on the peanut butter and soy sauce if you’re concerned about allergens. Always substitute these with alternatives that fit your dietary needs.
What if my wings aren’t crispy enough?
If you find your wings aren’t as crispy as you’d like, ensure the coating is applied evenly and that the air fryer is preheated. If using an oven instead, consider adjusting the cooking time or temperature slightly for your specific oven. Also, spritzing with oil before cooking is key to achieving that golden, crunchy exterior!
Savory Air Fryer Peanut Butter & Jelly Wings You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine Coating: Mix together flour, baking powder, mashed potato flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl or bag.
- Coat Wings: Toss chicken wings in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
- Prepare Air Fryer: Place coated wings in air fryer basket and spritz with oil.
- Air Fry Wings: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, turning halfway.
- Oven Option: Arrange wings on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes.
- Mix Sauce: Whisk peanut butter, grape jelly, sesame oil, Sriracha, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and soy sauce until smooth.
- Toss Wings: Remove cooked wings and toss them in the sauce mixture.
- Serve: Enjoy your wings hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.