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Air Fryer Sticky Pomegranate Wings - Crispy, Sweet, and Tangy

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (avocado, canola, or grapeseed)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for crisping)
  • 1/3 cup pomegranate molasses
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional, for depth)
  • To finish: pomegranate seeds, chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, toasted sesame seeds, lemon or lime wedges
  • Nonstick cooking spray (for the air fryer basket)

Method
 

  1. Prep the wings. Pat the wings very dry with paper towels. Dry skin is key for crisping. Add wings to a bowl and toss with oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. Add cornstarch. Sprinkle cornstarch over the seasoned wings and toss to coat evenly. You’re aiming for a light, even dusting, not clumps.
  3. Preheat the air fryer. Set to 390–400°F (200–205°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
  4. Cook the wings. Arrange wings in a single layer with a little space between each piece. Air fry for 10 minutes, flip, then cook another 8–12 minutes until deeply golden and crisp. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
  5. Make the glaze. While the wings cook, combine pomegranate molasses, honey, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat for 3–5 minutes until slightly thick and glossy. Stir in sesame oil if using. It should coat the back of a spoon.
  6. Toss to coat. Transfer hot wings to a clean bowl. Pour the sticky pomegranate glaze over and toss until every wing is shiny and covered.
  7. Finish and serve. Top with pomegranate seeds, herbs, and sesame seeds. Serve with lemon or lime wedges for a fresh pop.