Air Fryer Periperi Chicken Wings

Q: Can I use frozen chicken wings for this air fryer peri peri chicken recipe?

While fresh is best, you *can* use frozen wings. Make sure they are fully thawed before marinating to allow the peri-peri flavors to penetrate. Pat them extra dry after thawing, as frozen chicken tends to release more moisture, and you want that signature crispy skin, yeah?

Q: My air fryer is different, what temperature should I use to make air fryer peri peri chicken?

Every air fryer is a bit different – like snowflakes, but for cooking! 380°F (190°C) is a good starting point, but keep an eye on your wings. If they're browning too quickly, reduce the temperature slightly. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety – you don't want to end up like Mr. Bean with a dodgy turkey.

Q: How long does air fryer peri peri chicken last in the fridge?

Cooked peri-peri chicken wings will last in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container. When reheating, the air fryer is your best bet to bring back some of that crispiness, but a microwave will do in a pinch if you're after a quick bite.

Q: I'm not a huge fan of spicy food. Can I make this air fryer peri peri chicken less spicy?

Absolutely! The heat level of peri-peri sauce can vary, so taste it before adding it to the marinade. You can reduce the amount of peri-peri sauce or substitute part of it with lemon juice and a touch of smoked paprika. Alternatively, consider a lemon and herb variation if you fancy a change.

Q: Is air fryer peri peri chicken healthy?

Air frying is generally healthier than deep-frying because it uses significantly less oil. While these wings are still a treat, they're lower in fat than their deep-fried counterparts. To further boost the nutritional value, serve with a fresh salad or some steamed veggies, and be mindful of portion sizes. Like anything, moderation is key!

Crispy Air Fryer Peri Peri Chicken Wings Nandos Style

By Sally ThompsonSeptember 1, 2025

5.00 (4 Ratings)

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Fancy a proper Nando's chicken wings night in? You know when you just need some fiery goodness? Today, we are making air fryer peri peri chicken . I was craving something spicy.

Quick Hook

What if you could get that amazing peri peri marinade flavor without the takeaway price? These wings are crispy, spicy, and genuinely addictive. I promise you.

Brief Overview

Mozambican chicken recipe meets the modern air fryer! This dish packs flavour. It is an easy recipe. Expect it in under an hour, including prep.

This recipe makes 4 servings. It is perfect for sharing. Or not.

Main Benefits

The air fryer peri peri chicken recipe easy method makes these spicy air fryer chicken wings surprisingly healthy. Skip the deep fryer.

Get all the flavour. These wings are perfect for game day. Also for casual get-togethers. They are truly special. I have made them every weekend since I tried them.

Ready for the ingredients? I know I am! We're aiming for that perfect crispy chicken wings texture.

Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Air Fryer Peri Peri Chicken Wings

So, you're ready to make some seriously banging air fryer peri peri chicken wings? Good choice! Trust me; these are way better than anything you'd get down at Nando's and you're going to love your crispy chicken wings.

Let's get down to what you'll need. I have prepared this easy peri peri chicken recipe with a few things I already had at home.

Main Ingredients

1 ½ lbs (680g) chicken wings, split, and tips removed. Go for wings that look plump and juicy. The better the quality, the better the air fryer chicken wings will taste.
2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil.
1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice. Freshly squeezed is always best, honestly!
2 tbsp (30 ml) peri peri sauce (store-bought or homemade). I love Nando's , but if you're feeling adventurous, try my homemade peri peri sauce recipe !
1 tsp (5 ml) smoked paprika. This adds a gorgeous smoky flavour.
½ tsp (2.5 ml) garlic powder.
½ tsp (2.5 ml) onion powder.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don't be shy!

Seasoning Notes: Unleash the Fire!

Smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powder are crucial. It really makes it the best spicy air fryer chicken . If you can’t find peri peri marinade , a mix of your favorite hot sauce, paprika, and a squeeze of lemon works in a pinch.

I also used this method to make portuguese chicken wings and they tasted amazing. Also, smoked paprika it really makes it the best mozambican chicken recipe .

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

All you need are a few essentials.

A large mixing bowl.
Paper towels. Seriously. This is important for crispy chicken wings .
An air fryer . Obviously!
Tongs, for flipping.
An instant read thermometer (recommended). 165° F ( 74° C) is your magic number.

Honestly, the only things you really need are a bowl, an air fryer, and some tongs. If you don’t have fancy tongs, a fork will do.

Same goes for the bowl. Don't go buying new stuff when you can use what you already have. I once used a plastic bag instead of a bowl, and it actually worked pretty well for the air fryer recipes chicken .

Cooking Method: Nailin' That Air Fryer Peri Peri Chicken

Honestly, who doesn't love some crispy chicken wings ? Especially when they've got that spicy air fryer chicken kick! I've been messin' around with my air fryer a lot lately, and this air fryer peri peri chicken recipe is a proper winner.

It's way healthier than deep fried, and honestly? Just as tasty. So, let's dive into how we get these nando's chicken wings worthy wonders done.

Prep Steps: Gettin' Your Ducks in a Row

Before we even think about firing up the air fryer, let's do some prep. This is the mise en place , innit? First, get 1 ½ lbs (680g) chicken wings, split and tips removed.

Pat those bad boys completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for that crispy chicken wings texture. Seriously, the drier the better!

Next, measure out all your spices and other ingredients: 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil, 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice, 2 tbsp (30 ml) peri peri marinade , 1 tsp (5 ml) smoked paprika, ½ tsp (2.

5 ml) garlic powder, ½ tsp (2.5 ml) onion powder, salt, and pepper. Having everything ready saves so much time.

step-by-step: From Raw to BANGING!

Right, time to cook some mozambican chicken recipe inspired wings.

Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, peri peri sauce, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Chuck the wings in the bowl, making sure they are fully coated in that glorious marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for extra flavor). I usually go for the full 2 hours.
Preheat your air fryer to 380° F ( 190° C) .
Arrange wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they're not overlapping.
Cook for 24 to 28 minutes , flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Check the internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C) with a meat thermometer.
Rest for 5 minutes before serving

Pro Tips: Levelling Up Your Air Fryer Recipes Chicken

One thing I learned the hard way: don't overcrowd the basket. The hot air needs to circulate to get them properly crispy chicken wings .

If they are too crowded they'll steam, not fry. I have a small air fryer, so sometimes I need to cook it in three batches, which isn't ideal but is the only way I get it to come out perfect.

Another tip: a little spritz of oil helps them crisp up even more! Use cooking oil spray (olive oil or avocado oil).

Some recipes for homemade peri peri sauce recipe vary in heat, so add your peri peri gradually until it is right for you.

Remember to serve your portuguese chicken wings with a side of cooling dip.

Recipe Notes for Air Fryer Peri Peri Chicken Wings

Alright, let's talk shop about these amazing air fryer peri peri chicken . Honestly, these are gonna be your new go-to. My mates are proper obsessed!

Nailing the Plating and Perfect Pairings

Okay, so you've made these crispy chicken wings . Now what? I like piling them high on a platter. A sprinkle of fresh parsley makes it look fancy.

Serve it with some cool ranch or garlic mayo. Sides? Coleslaw is a classic. Corn on the cob is smashing in the summer.

For drinks, think cold beer. Lager or IPA. Lemonade works too.

Safe Storage for Later

Got leftovers? Fair play. Put the spicy air fryer chicken in an airtight container. They will be safe in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Want to keep them longer? Freezing is an option! Wrap the wings tightly. They can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheat them in the air fryer. This keeps them crispy chicken wings great. I'm not a fan of microwaving the wings they get a bit soggy.

Adapting the Recipe for Your Needs

Need to change things up? Easy peasy. For a peri peri chicken recipe easy switch, use lemon zest and herbs.

Ditch the peri peri sauce. Want a sweet kick? Try honey and garlic. Mix honey, soy sauce, and garlic. Adjust the marinade to your taste.

You can swap the olive oil for avocado oil.

Nutrition Notes

Right, let's get real. One serving of these air fryer chicken wings is about 350-400 calories. There's about 30-35 grams of protein in there.

And around 20-25 grams of fat. There are also 5-10 grams of carbs. Protein helps you build muscle. Just a rough estimate, you know?

Honestly, making these air fryer peri peri chicken is a game changer. Get stuck in and make sure to have some homemade peri peri sauce recipe .

You will be the champion of the kitchen!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this air fryer peri peri chicken recipe?

While fresh is best, you can use frozen wings. Make sure they are fully thawed before marinating to allow the peri peri flavors to penetrate. Pat them extra dry after thawing, as frozen chicken tends to release more moisture, and you want that signature crispy skin, yeah?

My air fryer is different, what temperature should I use to make air fryer peri peri chicken?

Every air fryer is a bit different like snowflakes, but for cooking! 380°F (190°C) is a good starting point, but keep an eye on your wings. If they're browning too quickly, reduce the temperature slightly.

Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety you don't want to end up like Mr. Bean with a dodgy turkey.

How long does air fryer peri peri chicken last in the fridge?

Cooked peri peri chicken wings will last in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container. When reheating, the air fryer is your best bet to bring back some of that crispiness, but a microwave will do in a pinch if you're after a quick bite.

I'm not a huge fan of spicy food. Can I make this air fryer peri peri chicken less spicy?

Absolutely! The heat level of peri peri sauce can vary, so taste it before adding it to the marinade. You can reduce the amount of peri peri sauce or substitute part of it with lemon juice and a touch of smoked paprika. Alternatively, consider a lemon and herb variation if you fancy a change.

Is air fryer peri peri chicken healthy?

Air frying is generally healthier than deep frying because it uses significantly less oil. While these wings are still a treat, they're lower in fat than their deep fried counterparts. To further boost the nutritional value, serve with a fresh salad or some steamed veggies, and be mindful of portion sizes.

Like anything, moderation is key!