Air fryer dry rub wings are taking over TikTok, but which flavor reigns supreme? We couldn’t resist jumping into the trend, so we lined up a challenge: Pitmaster Pork Rub vs Rib Rub vs All-Rub. Which one gives us the crispiest, boldest, and most TikTok-worthy bite?
We love this trend because it checks all the boxes. It’s easy, fast, healthier than deep-fried, and the perfect fix when you’re craving crispy air-fryer wings without any guilt.
Let’s put these rubs to the test and see which one deserves your air fryer spotlight.
Why Dry-Rub Chicken Wings in the Air Fryer?
Dry rubs are perfect for air fryers because they don’t make a mess in the fryer chamber: no messy batter, no excess oil, just bold flavors. The hot circulating air locks in bold spices and gives wings that crunch we all crave. Plus, they’re lower in calories and way less greasy than fried wings.
Dry-rub chicken wings in the air fryer are blowing up right now because they’re crispy, customizable, and ridiculously quick to make. That’s why we picked three classic rub styles and put them through the ultimate TikTok test.
The Challenge: Pitmaster Pork vs Rib vs All-Rub
We set the stage for the ultimate wing showdown. Three rubs, one air fryer, and a whole lot of flavors.
Pitmaster Pork Rub: Smoky Backyard Classic
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Flavor profile: Bold, smoky, and peppery, which gives a BBQ pit vibe.
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Best pairing: Best paired with red meat. But it gives a surprising twist on wings.
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Texture: Caramelizes slightly in the air fryer for a backyard crunch.
Rib Rub: Sweet Heat Meets Crispy Skin
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Flavor profile: Sweet and slightly spicy, with flavors perfectly balanced.
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Best pairing: Shines on chicken wings, adding that perfect BBQ flavor.
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Texture: Crisp finish with a sticky-sweet edge that everyone loves.
All-Rub: The Versatile Crowd-Pleaser
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Flavor profile: Balanced blend of savory, smoky, and sweet.
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Best pairing: Works with all kinds of food, especially perfect for parties and picky eaters.
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Texture: Guarantees even coating of chicken wings for a crunchy bite.
Each rub has its strengths, but only one comes out on top when it comes to crispy air-fryer wings.
How to Cook: The Ultimate Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe
We don’t need to be a chef to pull this off. Here’s our go-to air fryer chicken wings recipe that’s TikTok-ready in minutes.
Step-by-Step Method (Quick Guide)
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Pat wings completely dry (non-negotiable for crispiness).
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Toss the wings with your chosen rub. Optional: a touch of oil for extra crunch.
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Air fry at 375–400°F for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.
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Sprinkle on extra rub after cooking for more flavor punch.
Tips for TikTok-Worthy Crispy Wings
Here are some important tips that can make a great difference in the air-fried wings:
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No matter how many guests you are hosting, don’t overcrowd the basket. Cook in batches – airflow = mouthwatering crunch.
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Did you know? Baking powder can add to the crunch! So, don’t be afraid to add a little baking powder for extra crispiness.
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Aren’t we all sauce lovers? Toss the wings in True Made Foods’ no-sugar BBQ sauce after air frying for bold, clean flavor.
Once you master this easy air fryer chicken wing recipe, it’s all about choosing which rub wins your taste test.
Check out this YouTube video tutorial for extra tips on how to get crispy wings in the air fryer.
And the Winner Is… Flavor Without Compromise
Drumroll, please… the Rib Rub takes the crown! Its sweet-and-savory balance makes it a favorite for most wing fans.
But don’t count the others out: Pitmaster Pork Rub wins for smoky lovers, and All-Natural Rub is the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
What ties them all together? Flavor without compromise. That’s our motto. We always reach for clean ingredients, which is why we pair our wings with True Made Foods BBQ sauces (Carolina Gold, Kansas City, and Memphis), all made with real veggies and no added sugar. Perfect for anyone looking to enjoy healthy wings without losing flavor.
Try the Challenge Yourself
Pick your rub, fire up the air fryer, and share your winner on TikTok. We’d love to see your take on the challenge!
And when you’re ready to level up your wing game, don’t forget to check out True Made Foods’ sugar-free BBQ sauces for a clean, bold flavor boost.
Because at the end of the day, the true winner is you, with a plate of perfectly crispy, healthier wings. Shop BBQ rubs from True Made Foods!