If you’re craving an appetizer that delivers maximum punch in every bite, Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings are about to become your newest obsession. Imagine juicy, golden wings slicked in a glaze that delivers citrusy lemongrass, zesty lime, garlicky warmth, and a gentle, aromatic heat—all crisped to perfection in the air fryer. This recipe brings irresistible Southeast Asian flavors to your weeknight kitchen with hardly any fuss, and you’ll want to make them for every game night, potluck, or Friday treat.

Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, bold ingredients come together to create something unforgettable. Each one pulls its weight—whether by lending juiciness, bringing a pop of color, or turning up the flavor dial. Here’s what you’ll need to make these Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings:

Chicken wings: The star of the show—make sure you pat them dry so they crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
Vegetable oil: Just a touch helps the seasoning stick and aids in getting that coveted crispy skin.
Salt & black pepper: Essential for bringing out every nuance of flavor in the wings.
Lemongrass (tender inner stalk, minced): This ingredient brings a citrusy, slightly floral aroma that instantly transports you to Southeast Asia.
Garlic (minced): Adds earthy depth and warmth—they’re a must in any good marinade.
Red chili (finely chopped): Brings a beautiful color and adjustable heat—use more or less according to your spicy side.
Honey: Sweetens the glaze and helps it caramelize for that sticky finish everyone loves.
Soy sauce: Gives salty, umami undertones—opt for gluten-free if you need it.
Fish sauce: Trust me, it adds that extra savory punch that makes these wings sing.
Lime juice: Balances the glaze with just the right zesty brightness.
Grated ginger: Brings a little zing and subtle heat.
Brown sugar: Rounds out the flavors and contributes to the glossy, sticky glaze.

How to Make Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken Wings

Start by patting the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels—don’t skip this, as it’s the secret to that crave-worthy crispy exterior. Toss them in a big bowl with vegetable oil, salt, and pepper so each wing is well coated and ready to soak up all the bold flavors coming its way.

Step 2: Mix Up the Flavor-Packed Marinade

Grab a small bowl and combine your minced lemongrass, garlic, red chili, honey, soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, ginger, and brown sugar. Using the tender inner part of the lemongrass ensures it blends beautifully with the other ingredients, infusing the wings with authentic fragrance and tang. Give it a stir and inhale: that aroma is pure excitement!

Step 3: Marinate for Big Flavor

Pour half of your marinade over the wings and toss them with your hands (or a spoon) until they’re coated and glistening. Stash them in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours if you have time. The longer they sit, the more vibrant, sticky, and complex the final flavor will be.

Step 4: Air Fry to Crispy Perfection

Set your air fryer to 380°F. Arrange the wings in a single layer (you may need to work in batches if you want every piece perfectly crisp). Air fry the wings for 24 to 26 minutes total, flipping them halfway through—this step makes sure every bite is evenly golden and sizzling with flavor.

Step 5: Make the Sticky Glaze

While your wings are cooking, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer on medium heat and let it bubble away for 3 or 4 minutes, until thickened to a glossy, irresistible glaze that’s perfect for tossing.

Step 6: Toss and Serve the Wings

As soon as the wings are done, toss them hot and fresh in the sticky glaze. Watch them turn gorgeously shiny, then transfer onto a platter and get ready to wow your guests—or just yourself! Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and extra freshness.

How to Serve Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Garnishes

Scatter a generous handful of chopped cilantro or thin-sliced green onions over your Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings. If you like extra crunch, sprinkle on some toasted sesame seeds, or add a final squeeze of lime for a zesty finish that brightens every bite.

Side Dishes

These wings are crowd-pleasers on their own, but pair beautifully with plain steamed jasmine rice to soak up the sauce or a cool cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling fancy, try serving alongside sticky rice or pickled veggies for an all-out Southeast Asian feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Set your Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings atop a banana leaf for a tropical vibe, or pile them into a big bowl surrounded by colorful veggie sticks for game night. Skewer each wing with a fancy toothpick for easy party grazing—or heap them high and let everyone dive in, family style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover wings (lucky you!), let them cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay juicy and flavorful for up to three days, and that sticky glaze only gets more delicious as it melds with the meat.

Freezing

To freeze, place your cooled wings on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When sealed tightly, Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings can be frozen for up to two months without losing their punchy flavor or tender texture.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the wings in your air fryer at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back the crispiness without overcooking the meat. You can also heat in a hot oven if reheating a big batch—just line a tray with foil and pop them in until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken drumettes or full drumsticks instead of wings?

Absolutely! While wings cook up quickly and get perfectly crispy in the air fryer, drumettes or even full drumsticks can substitute. Just remember to adjust the cook time (drumsticks may need a few more minutes) and always check for doneness.

Is there a substitute for lemongrass if I can’t find it?

If fresh lemongrass isn’t available, you can use store-bought lemongrass paste, which works in a pinch. Otherwise, try a combination of lemon zest and a splash of lime juice—while not exactly the same, it will give a similar citrusy undertone.

How spicy are these Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings?

The wings have a mild to moderate heat thanks to the red chili. If you’re spice-shy, remove the seeds from the chili or use less; if you love a fiery kick, add another chili or sprinkle in some chili flakes to the marinade.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! To make these Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings gluten-free, make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce and double-check your fish sauce label. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What air fryer size should I use for this recipe?

This recipe works in most standard air fryers. If yours is on the smaller side, cook the wings in batches for best results. Overcrowding the basket prevents the wings from crisping up evenly, so give them a little room.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings, they’ll become your go-to for every gathering (or solo craving). Each bite bursts with juicy, saucy, fragrant goodness, and the hands-off air fryer method makes them easy enough for weeknights. Don’t be surprised if they disappear before you can sneak a second helping—so what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a whirl, and enjoy every sticky, spicy, aromatic bite!

Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe

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4.7 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes (excluding marinating)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings are a delicious blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors that will have you reaching for seconds. The wings are marinated in a flavorful lemongrass mixture, air-fried to crispy perfection, and then tossed in a sticky glaze for an irresistible finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Wings:

2 pounds chicken wings
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the marinade and glaze:

2 stalks lemongrass (tender inner part finely minced)
3 garlic cloves (minced)
1 red chili (finely chopped, adjust to taste)
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon brown sugar

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry and toss with oil, salt, and pepper.
Make the Marinade: Mix lemongrass, garlic, chili, honey, soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, ginger, and brown sugar. Pour half over wings and marinate.
Air Fry: Preheat to 380°F. Arrange wings in a single layer and air fry for 24–26 minutes, flipping halfway.
Prepare Glaze: Simmer remaining marinade in a saucepan until thickened.
Coat Wings: Toss cooked wings in the glaze and serve garnished with cilantro or green onions.