Chicken wings are a classic comfort food, perfect for gatherings, game days, or just when you’re craving something crispy and delicious. While fried wings are a popular choice, baking them can be a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture. In this recipe, I’ll show you how to make truly crispy oven baked chicken wings that are easy to prepare and customize with your favorite seasonings and sauces.
1. Truly Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Wings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika (optional for added color and flavor)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder (for extra crispiness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your wings. If the wings are whole, cut them into drumettes and flats, discarding the wing tips, or save them for making stock.
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is important to remove any excess moisture and helps achieve a crispy texture.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Wings
In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil. This will help the seasoning stick to the wings and promote crispiness in the oven.
In a separate small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and baking powder. The baking powder is the key to getting that crispy skin without frying. It helps dry out the skin and creates a nice crunch when baked. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the wings and toss to coat all pieces thoroughly.
Step 3: Bake the Wings
Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. The wire rack allows hot air to circulate around the wings, helping them cook evenly and get crispy on all sides. Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the rack, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through. The wings should be golden brown, crispy, and have an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Serve
Once the wings are done baking, remove them from the oven.
Serve the baked chicken wings with your favorite dips like ranch or blue cheese, and a side of celery or carrot sticks.
2. Flavor Variations
Feel free to get creative with your baked chicken wings! Here are a few flavor ideas to try:
Lemon Pepper Wings: Toss the wings with lemon zest, black pepper, and a dash of garlic powder before baking. After baking, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the wings for a zesty kick.
Honey Garlic Wings: After baking, toss the wings in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic for a sweet and savory flavor.
Buffalo Wings: For classic Buffalo wings, toss the baked wings in a mix of hot sauce and melted butter right after baking.
3. Serving Suggestions
Baked chicken wings are perfect on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Fries or potato wedges
- Coleslaw
- Mac and cheese
- Cornbread
- Garden salad
Baked chicken wings are a delicious and healthier alternative to fried wings. With a few simple ingredients and a little time in the oven, you can achieve crispy, flavorful wings that are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Give this baked chicken wings recipe a try, and enjoy perfectly crispy wings without the added oil and mess of frying!
