Baked chicken wings are a delicious, healthier alternative to deep-fried wings, offering the perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. This recipe ensures maximum flavor with a simple yet effective seasoning blend and a foolproof baking method that guarantees crispiness.
Whether you’re making these for a game day, a family gathering, or just to satisfy your wing cravings, these baked chicken wings will be a hit. With minimal ingredients and no need for deep frying, this is the ultimate go-to recipe for wings that are crispy on the outside, succulent on the inside, and packed with mouthwatering flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
- 1 tbsp baking powder (aluminum-free)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 tbsp hot sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for serving)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Wings
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top. This helps the wings cook evenly and stay crispy.
- Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. Removing moisture ensures crispiness during baking.
2. Season the Wings
- In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, coating them evenly.
- In a separate bowl, mix baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the wings, ensuring each wing is evenly coated. The baking powder helps create a crispy skin.
3. Arrange and Bake
- Place the seasoned wings on the wire rack, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow air circulation.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
- The wings should be golden brown and crispy when done. You can check by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part; it should read at least 165°F (74°C).
4. Prepare the Sauce (Optional)
- While the wings are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Stir in hot sauce and honey (if using) for a flavorful glaze.
- Once the wings are done, toss them in the sauce for extra flavor or serve the sauce on the side.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the baked chicken wings to a serving plate.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh touch.
- Serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing and enjoy the crispy, juicy goodness.