These Crispy Baked Chicken Wings are a healthier alternative to fried wings, offering a delicious and satisfying crunch without all the extra oil. They’re seasoned with a flavorful blend of spices and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken wings (about 10-12 wings)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
- 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 spice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra crispiness)
- Optional: Sauce of your choice (BBQ, buffalo, honey garlic, etc.)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Wings: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Season the Wings: Add the chicken wings to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Toss until the wings are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Add Olive Oil (Optional): If you want extra crispy wings, drizzle the olive oil over the wings and toss to coat.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the wings are golden brown and crispy. Flip the wings halfway through the baking time for even cooking.
- Check Doneness: The wings are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
- Sauce (Optional): If you want to sauce the wings, remove them from the oven and toss them in your favorite sauce in a large bowl.
- Serve: Serve the Crispy Baked Chicken Wings hot.
Tips and Notes:
- Aluminum-Free Baking Powder: Using aluminum-free baking powder is crucial for achieving crispy wings.
- Pat Dry: Patting the wings dry before seasoning helps the seasoning adhere and promotes crispiness.
- Single Layer: Arrange the wings in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Oven Temperature: You can also bake the wings at 425°F (220°C) for 35-40 minutes for even crispier results.
- Sauce Timing: If you want saucy wings, toss them in the sauce after baking. Baking the wings with sauce can result in a sticky mess.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.