Introduction:
Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make snack for your next game day or family gathering? These crispy baked chicken wings are the perfect solution! They’re seasoned to perfection, baked until crispy, and tossed in your favorite sauce for a flavor-packed treat. Best of all, they’re healthier than fried wings and require minimal cleanup. Follow this step-by-step guide to create the best baked chicken wings that will leave everyone asking for more!
Ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Wings
For this easy baked chicken wings recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (this is key for extra crispiness!)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Your favorite wing sauce (Buffalo, BBQ, or honey garlic)
These ingredients come together to make crispy oven-baked chicken wings that are flavorful on the inside and perfectly crispy on the outside.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Baked Chicken Wings
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Wings
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. The rack helps the air circulate around the wings, allowing them to crisp up evenly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Wings
In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. The baking powder is the secret ingredient that helps achieve that perfect crispy texture in these baked chicken wings.
Pro Tip: Make sure the wings are dry before seasoning. Patting them dry with paper towels removes excess moisture, allowing the wings to become crispy in the oven.
Step 3: Bake the Wings
Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. The wings are done when they’re golden brown and crispy.
Pro Tip: For extra crispy wings, you can broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Just keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
Step 4: Toss in Sauce and Serve
Once the wings are baked to perfection, transfer them to a large bowl and toss them in your favorite wing sauce. For a classic flavor, you can use Buffalo sauce or BBQ sauce. If you prefer something sweet and tangy, honey garlic sauce is a great option.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Baked Chicken Wings
- Use baking powder (not baking soda) to help the wings become extra crispy in the oven. This trick works wonders!
- Flip the wings halfway through baking to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy on both sides.
- Toss the wings in sauce just before serving to maintain their crispiness. If you toss them too early, they may become soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these wings in advance?
A: Yes! You can bake the wings ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10 minutes until they’re crispy again.
Q: What dipping sauces go well with chicken wings?
A: Ranch, blue cheese dressing, and even a simple garlic aioli are all great dipping sauces for these crispy baked chicken wings.
Q: Can I use frozen wings?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the wings completely and pat them dry before seasoning. This will help them cook evenly and become crispy.
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Baked Chicken Wings Recipe
These crispy baked chicken wings are not only healthier than fried wings, but they’re also packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a game day snack, or just craving something savory, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—you can toss them in any sauce you like!