These Spicy Dry Rub Chicken Wings are crisp, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make—perfect for game days, parties, or a quick weeknight treat. The warm spices of garam masala, tangy amchur, and a blend of chili powders make these wings unforgettable. Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe is ideal when you want big flavor with minimal effort.
About This Recipe
This dry rub chicken wing recipe is not your basic spice mix. It blends the heat of cayenne and Kashmiri chili with the warmth of garam masala, plus a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. Amchur adds a unique tang without moisture, keeping the rub perfectly dry.
Tested multiple times, the final version balances sweetness, heat, and tang beautifully.
Ingredients
(Scale: 1x)
- 1 pound chicken wings
- 1/2 tsp amchoor (dry mango powder)
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Kashmiri chili powder (sub paprika if needed)
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp granulated garlic
- 1 tsp cumin (toasted & ground) (or use regular cumin powder)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt (or to taste)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 Tbsp ghee or oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Wings
Pat the chicken wings dry. Place them in a large bowl and coat with melted ghee or oil. - Make the Dry Rub
Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl. - Reserve Some Rub
Set aside 1 teaspoon of the dry rub for later. - Coat the Wings
Add the remaining spice mix to the wings and toss well until evenly coated. - Air Fry
Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 20–22 minutes, shaking halfway for even crisping. - Finish & Serve
Remove from the air fryer and sprinkle the reserved dry rub on top.
Serve warm.
Notes
- Toasting cumin enhances its flavor. If you prefer, use regular cumin powder to save time.
- If you don’t have amchur, sprinkle a little lemon juice over the cooked wings.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with:
- Zucchini or squash bites
- Deviled eggs
- Other finger foods
Drink ideas:
- Mint summer shandy
- Green mango margarita
- Pomegranate margarita
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 396 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Cholesterol: 114 mg
- Sodium: 684 mg
- Potassium: 231 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 12 g
- Vitamin A: 432 IU
- Vitamin C: 1 mg
- Calcium: 28 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
