Introduction
Who doesn’t love crispy chicken wings? Traditionally fried, wings can also be baked to achieve that perfect crunch with less oil and mess. This recipe delivers golden, crispy wings with a tender inside, seasoned just right and baked to perfection. Whether for game day, a party, or a snack, these wings will impress your taste buds and guests alike!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds (about 1 kg) chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
- Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing the baking rack
For the sauce (optional):
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (for a touch of sweetness)
Instructions and Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet. This rack helps air circulate around the wings for extra crispiness.
- Prepare the wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels — this is crucial for crispiness. Moisture is the enemy of crunch!
- Coat the wings: In a large bowl, mix the baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using. Toss the wings in this dry mix until they’re evenly coated.
- Arrange the wings: Place the wings on the wire rack in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking spray or brush a little oil on top to encourage browning.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet with wings on the middle rack of your oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Make the sauce (optional): While wings bake, mix hot sauce, melted butter, and honey or brown sugar in a bowl.
- Toss the wings: Once wings are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and toss in the sauce if you want buffalo-style wings.
- Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese and some celery sticks.
Enjoy your perfectly crispy, oven-baked chicken wings!