Recipe For Crispy Baked Chicken Wings

 Forget greasy deep-fried wings. This recipe delivers perfectly crispy, flavorful chicken wings baked to golden perfection in the oven. With a simple dry rub and a few clever techniques, these wings will rival any deep-fried version.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds chicken wings, tips removed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

  1. The Pat-Dry Power Move: Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness.

  2. Rub-a-Dub-Dub: In a large bowl, combine the wings with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Toss vigorously to ensure even coating.

  3. The Baking Sheet Trick: Line a baking sheet with a rack. This allows air to circulate around the wings, promoting even cooking and extra crispiness.

  4. Bake to Perfection: Arrange the wings in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes. Flip the wings and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the wings from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, 1 resulting in more tender meat. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces – buffalo sauce, ranch, blue cheese, or even a spicy honey mustard. 

Tips for Wing Perfection:

  • Double the Flavor: For extra flavor, marinate the wings in the dry rub for at least 30 minutes before baking.
  • Spice Things Up: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your desired heat level. Add a pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika for a smoky dimension.
  • Get Creative with Rubs: Experiment with different spice blends like lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, or even a sweet and spicy blend.

These baked wings are a healthier and equally delicious alternative to their deep-fried counterparts. So ditch the fryer and embrace the crispy, flavorful goodness of these oven-baked beauties.