Crispy Baked Chicken Wings

When it comes to game day snacks or a hearty dinner, nothing quite satisfies like a plate of crispy baked chicken wings. These wings are not just crispy; they are bursting with flavor and are surprisingly easy to make in the oven. With a few simple ingredients and some kitchen know-how, you can serve up a batch of wings that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Top Reasons to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Wings

• Healthier Option: Baked rather than fried, these wings are a smart choice without sacrificing flavor or crispiness.
• Easy to Prepare: With minimal hands-on time, these wings come together quickly and effortlessly.
• Customizable Flavors: You can easily adjust the seasonings and sauces to suit any taste preference.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a party, these wings fit right in.

Ingredient List

• 4 pounds chicken wings, halved at joints, wingtips discarded
• 2 tablespoons baking powder, aluminum-free
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/3 cup Frank’s Wings Hot Sauce
• 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon water

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet for the wings.
• Wire Rack: This helps to elevate the wings so they crisp on all sides.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining the seasoning and sauce.
• Heavy-Duty Foil: To line your baking sheet for easy cleanup.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure your wings are cooked to the perfect temperature.

Crispy Baked Chicken Wings, Made Easy

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is essential for achieving that delightful crispiness.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line your baking sheet with heavy-duty foil and place a wire rack on top. This setup allows air to circulate around the wings and helps them cook evenly.

Step 3: Dry the Wings

Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Drying them thoroughly helps the skin become crispy when baked.

Step 4: Season the Wings

In a large mixing bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, cracked black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Toss the dried wings in the spice mixture until they are evenly coated.

Step 5: Arrange the Wings

Place the seasoned wings on the wire rack in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. This allows them to cook evenly and become crispy.

Step 6: Bake the Wings

Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Prepare the Sauce

While the wings are baking, combine the Frank’s Wings Hot Sauce, brown sugar, and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is heated through.

Step 8: Toss and Serve

Once the wings are done, transfer them to a large mixing bowl, pour the hot sauce over them, and toss until well coated. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious crispy baked chicken wings!

Better Choices & Swaps

• For a milder flavor, use a different hot sauce or reduce the amount of Frank’s Wings Hot Sauce.
• Swap out the light brown sugar for coconut sugar for a different sweetness level.
• Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Try adding different spices like cayenne pepper for extra heat or herbs like dried thyme for an aromatic twist.

If You’re Curious

Why baking powder? The aluminum-free baking powder is key to achieving that desired crispiness on the chicken wings. It helps to dry out the skin, giving it a crunchy texture as it bakes. You might wonder why we use a wire rack; it’s essential for airflow, allowing the fat to drip away from the chicken, resulting in a perfectly crisp wing without the greasy finish.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the wings up to a day in advance. Simply season them and store them in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to bake. Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) to restore some of the crispiness before serving again.

Your Top Questions

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and baking. You may also need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What’s the best way to serve crispy baked chicken wings?

Crispy baked chicken wings are best served hot and fresh from the oven. Pair them with a side of celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese for the ultimate experience!

How can I make these wings extra spicy?

If you’re looking to kick up the heat, consider adding more hot sauce or mixing in some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the seasoning blend.

Can I make the wings in an air fryer?

Absolutely! For air-fried wings, follow the same seasoning process and cook them at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Air Fryer Chicken Wings
• Spicy Baked Chicken Wings
• Oven-Baked Chicken Wing Dips
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings

Final Bite

These crispy baked chicken wings are not just a meal; they’re an experience filled with flavor and crunch. With the right balance of spices and the magic of baking powder, you can recreate the perfect wing right in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, these wings will surely impress. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of crispy baked chicken wings. Enjoy every bite!