Juicy Baked Chicken Wings

Chicken wings are a favorite for game days, parties, and family dinners, but frying them can be messy and time-consuming. That’s where baked chicken wings come in! This recipe delivers incredibly juicy, crispy wings without the hassle of deep frying. With just a few simple ingredients and an easy baking method, you can achieve restaurant-quality wings right from your oven.

The secret to perfectly baked wings lies in the preparation. By patting the wings dry and using a special seasoning blend, you enhance their natural flavors while ensuring a crispy, golden exterior. Baking at high heat allows the skin to crisp up beautifully while keeping the meat inside tender and juicy. Plus, this method is much healthier than frying since it reduces excess oil without sacrificing flavor.

Another advantage of this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy the wings as they are, seasoned to perfection, or toss them in your favorite sauce for extra flavor. Whether you prefer classic buffalo, honey garlic, or a tangy barbecue glaze, these wings make the perfect base for any flavor combination.

If you’re serving a crowd, baked wings are a lifesaver. You can easily prepare large batches in the oven with minimal effort, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the event rather than cooking. The best part? No greasy splatter or heavy clean-up afterward.

These wings are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to gatherings with friends. They pair well with a variety of dips like ranch, blue cheese, or even a simple garlic aioli. Serve them with celery and carrot sticks for a classic touch, or add a side of crispy fries for the ultimate comfort meal.

One of the best things about baked chicken wings is that they reheat beautifully. Whether you have leftovers from a big batch or are making them ahead of time, a quick toss in the oven will bring back their crispiness, making them just as delicious the next day.

For those who love experimenting in the kitchen, this recipe is a great base to get creative. Add a touch of heat with cayenne pepper, give them an herby twist with fresh rosemary and thyme, or coat them in lemon pepper seasoning for a bright, zesty flavor. The possibilities are endless!

If you’ve ever struggled with getting crispy wings in the oven, this recipe will change the game for you. By using a few expert tricks—like baking powder for extra crunch and a wire rack for even cooking—you’ll achieve that irresistible texture without needing a fryer.

So, if you’re craving restaurant-style wings but want an easier and healthier way to enjoy them, this juicy baked chicken wings recipe is the answer. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to frying!

Servings

Serves: 4

Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Your favorite wing sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack with cooking spray.
2. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them crisp up better in the oven.
3. In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, ensuring they are well coated.
4. In a separate bowl, mix baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
5. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the wings and toss until evenly coated.
6. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack, making sure they are not touching.
7. Bake for 45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
8. If desired, toss the wings in your favorite sauce before serving. Serve hot with dipping sauces of choice.

Tips

• Drying the wings: Removing as much moisture as possible before baking is key to achieving crispiness.
• Use baking powder: This helps break down proteins in the skin, creating a crunchier texture without frying.
• Wire rack technique: Elevating the wings allows air to circulate, ensuring even cooking and crisping.
• Saucing the wings: For the crispiest wings, toss them in sauce after baking rather than before.
• Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat leftovers in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.

Summary

These juicy baked chicken wings are a game-changer for wing lovers. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and easy to make without frying, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether served plain or tossed in your favorite sauce, they’re sure to be a hit at the dinner table or party spread.