Crispy Baked Chicken Wings Recipe

These baked chicken wings are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor. They’re a healthier alternative to fried wings and are perfect for game day, parties, or a casual dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 2.5 pounds chicken wings (about 12-15 wings)
  • 2 tablespoons baking powder (aluminum-free for best results)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)  
  • Cooking spray or olive oil

Optional Sauce (Choose one or create your own):

  • Classic Buffalo Sauce:
    • 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)  
    • 1/4 cup melted butter
    • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Honey Garlic Sauce:
    • 1/4 cup honey
    • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • BBQ Sauce:
    • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This helps them get crispy.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  3. Coat the Wings: Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss them thoroughly with the dry mixture, ensuring each wing is evenly coated.
  4. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the wings, making them crispier.
  5. Arrange the Wings: Arrange the chicken wings in a single layer on the wire rack, making sure they are not touching. Spray or drizzle lightly with cooking spray or olive oil.
  6. Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 40-50 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  7. Prepare the Sauce (Optional): While the wings are baking, prepare your chosen sauce.
    • Buffalo Sauce: Whisk together hot sauce, melted butter, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl.
    • Honey Garlic Sauce: Whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, and rice vinegar in a saucepan. Simmer over low heat until slightly thickened.
    • BBQ Sauce: Simply warm your favorite BBQ sauce in a saucepan.
  8. Toss with Sauce (Optional): Once the wings are cooked, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the sauce over the wings and toss until they are evenly coated.
  9. Serve: Serve the crispy baked chicken wings immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and sides.

Tips and Variations:

  • Crispier Skin: For extra crispy skin, you can broil the wings for the last few minutes of baking.
  • Marinating: For more flavor, you can marinate the wings for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight before baking.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
  • Dry Rub Variations: Experiment with different dry rub combinations, such as lemon pepper, Cajun, or Italian seasoning.
  • Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy your crispy and flavorful Baked Chicken Wings!

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