Crispy Baked Chicken Wings Recipe: Irresistibly Juicy & Flavorful

Crispy and golden baked chicken wings have become my ultimate game-day comfort food secret.

Many traditional recipes fall short of achieving that perfect crunch.

Marinades can make or break your wing experience, so selecting the right blend matters immensely.

Salt, pepper, and paprika form a simple yet powerful flavor foundation for these delectable bites.

Chicken wings work magic when seasoned thoughtfully and cooked at the right temperature.

Professional chefs know subtle techniques can turn ordinary ingredients into extraordinary meals.

You will devour these wings and impress everyone at your next gathering.

What to Serve with Baked Chicken Wings

• Complement the spicy, smoky wing seasonings with a hoppy IPA or amber ale to cut through the richness and match the bold wing profile.
• Prepare a tangy coleslaw with apple cider vinegar and fresh herbs to balance the wings' heat and provide a refreshing counterpoint.
• Whip up a homemade ranch dressing with buttermilk, fresh dill, and chives to create a cooling companion that tames the wing's spiciness and adds creamy texture.
• Mix a zesty lemon-lime margarita or a bright gin and tonic to cut through the wings' richness and cleanse the palate between bites.

Baked Chicken Wings Flavor Swaps

• Gluten-Free Friendly: Swap standard baking powder with a certified gluten-free version and ensure all spices are gluten-free for those with celiac or gluten sensitivity.
• Low-Sodium Option: Reduce salt quantity or use salt-free herb blends, replacing sodium with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for enhanced flavor without added salt.
• Keto-Friendly Version: Keep the original recipe as is since chicken wings are naturally low-carb and high-protein, perfect for ketogenic diet followers.
• Spicy Lovers' Adaptation: Increase cayenne pepper or add hot sauce like sriracha during seasoning for an extra kick of heat, catering to spice enthusiasts who enjoy bold flavors.

FAQs About Baked Chicken Wings

• What is the purpose of using baking powder in this recipe?

Baking powder helps create a crispy, golden-brown exterior by breaking down the proteins on the chicken skin and drawing out moisture.

• Can I use aluminum foil or parchment paper on the baking sheet?

Yes, line the baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easier cleanup, but make sure to use a wire rack on top to allow air circulation and help wings get extra crispy.

• How do I know when the chicken wings are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the wing. The skin should be golden brown and crispy.

• Is it necessary to pat the wings completely dry before seasoning?

Absolutely! Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving crispy wings. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the wings, which helps the seasoning stick and promotes better browning.

Highlights of Baked Chicken Wings

• Requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for busy home cooks who want a delicious meal without complicated techniques.
• Bakes in about 45-50 minutes, delivering crispy wings faster than traditional deep-frying methods while maintaining great flavor and texture.
• Appeals to all ages and works brilliantly for game nights, family dinners, casual parties, and weekend gatherings with friends.
• Baking instead of deep-frying reduces excessive oil consumption, providing a lighter version of a classic comfort food that doesn't compromise on taste or crunchiness.

Ingredients for Baked Chicken Wings

• Chicken Wings: Lean protein that creates the main dish, choose fresh or thawed wings with no freezer burn.

• Baking Powder, Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder, Smoked Paprika, Onion Powder, Cayenne: Spice mix that adds depth of flavor and helps create crispy exterior, use fresh ground spices for best taste.

• Paper Towels: Essential for drying chicken wings to ensure maximum crispiness, use clean, absorbent towels.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baked Chicken Wings

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Position the rack in the middle of the oven for even cooking.

Step 2: Dry the Chicken Wings

Remove chicken wings from packaging and thoroughly pat dry using paper towels. Removing moisture ensures the wings will become extra crispy and golden brown.

Step 3: Season the Wings

• Baking powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Onion powder
• Cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Toss the wings in the seasoning mixture, making sure each wing is evenly coated.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the seasoned wings on the rack, ensuring they are not touching each other. This allows hot air to circulate and creates crispiness on all sides.

Step 5: Bake the Wings

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through cooking. The wings are done when the skin is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove wings from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Baked Chicken Wings Pro Cooking Notes

• Dry Thoroughly: Use clean paper towels to absorb all moisture from chicken wings, ensuring maximum crispiness and perfect golden-brown exterior.
• Season Generously: Mix baking powder with spices to create a flavorful coating that helps wings become extra crispy and locks in delicious seasonings.
• Space Smartly: Arrange wings on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet, allowing hot air to circulate completely and prevent soggy bottoms.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm wings reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part, guaranteeing safe and juicy meat.
• Customize Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control heat intensity, making the recipe friendly for different spice tolerances.

How to Keep Baked Chicken Wings Fresh

• Store leftover chicken wings in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool wings completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
• Warm wings at 350F for 10-15 minutes, placing them on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This method helps restore crispiness and prevents soggy texture.
• Crisp wings quickly at 375F for 3-5 minutes, shaking basket halfway through. Works best for maintaining original crunch and flavor.
• Always check internal temperature reaches 165F when reheating to ensure food safety and prevent potential bacterial growth.

Baked Chicken Wings Recipe

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4.8 from 34 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sizzling “Crispy Baked Chicken Wings” bring zesty flavors straight from Southern kitchens to dinner tables. Perfectly seasoned wings offer a healthier alternative to deep-frying, delivering golden-brown crunch you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings (split into drumettes and flats)

Dry Seasonings:

• 1 tablespoon baking powder (NOT baking soda)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)

Wet Ingredients:

• ½ cup buffalo sauce (or barbecue, honey garlic, teriyaki, etc.)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to a high temperature of 425F (220C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle for even heat distribution.
2. Thoroughly dry the chicken wings using paper towels, removing all excess moisture to guarantee a crispy exterior during baking.
3. Create a flavor-packed seasoning blend by combining baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and optional cayenne for heat.
4. Transfer the chicken wings to a large mixing bowl and meticulously coat each piece with the spice mixture, ensuring complete and uniform coverage.
5. Arrange the seasoned wings on a wire rack placed over a rimmed baking sheet, which allows hot air to circulate and promotes maximum crispiness.
6. Place the prepared wings in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even browning.
7. Check the wings for a golden-brown color and crispy skin, verifying internal temperature reaches 165F to confirm full cooking.
8. Remove from the oven and let the wings rest for 5 minutes, allowing the exterior to maintain its crunchiness while the interior remains juicy.
9. Serve immediately with preferred dipping sauces or garnishes to enhance the flavor profile of these perfectly baked chicken wings.

Notes

• Ensure wings are bone-dry to achieve maximum crispiness without excess moisture.
• Elevate wings on a wire rack inside the baking sheet for superior air circulation and evenly crisp skin.
• Customize spice blend by adjusting heat levels or swapping cayenne with different chili powders for unique flavor profiles.
• For healthier version, use less salt and opt for low-sodium spice alternatives without compromising taste intensity.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 120mg