Oven-baked chicken wings are a delicious, crispy, and healthier alternative to deep-fried wings. By baking them at high heat, you achieve a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. These wings can be seasoned in various ways, from classic buffalo sauce to garlic parmesan or honey BBQ. Whether you’re preparing them for a game day snack or a family dinner, this recipe ensures a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings (split into drumettes and wingettes)
- 1 tbsp baking powder (for extra crispiness)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup hot sauce (for buffalo wings)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tbsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for depth of flavor)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 250°F (120°C). This low temperature helps dry out the wings, making them crispier when baked at high heat later.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray the rack with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Dry the Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- Season the Wings: In a large bowl, mix baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Toss the wings in this mixture until evenly coated.
- First Bake: Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake at 250°F for 30 minutes. This step helps render the fat and dry out the skin.
- Increase the Heat: After 30 minutes, raise the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Bake for another 40-50 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the wings are baking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in hot sauce, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Coat the Wings: Once the wings are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven. Toss them in the prepared sauce or serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the wings on a platter and serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Tips for Extra Crispiness:
- Use baking powder: It helps break down proteins in the skin, leading to a crispier texture.
- Dry the wings thoroughly: Moisture prevents crisping, so pat them dry before seasoning.
- Bake on a wire rack: This allows air circulation around the wings, ensuring even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Space the wings apart to allow proper airflow.
This oven-baked chicken wing recipe is perfect for any occasion, offering a crispy, flavorful bite without the mess of frying. Whether you prefer them spicy, tangy, or sweet, these wings are sure to be a hit! 🍗🔥