Oh my gosh, let me tell you about these crispy oven-baked chicken wings! They are one of my absolute favorite go-to snacks, especially when my husband and I are catching up on our favorite shows. It’s like having a little party every time we make them! We absolutely love how crispy they get without needing to fry them, and they can be tossed in your favorite sauce for that extra kick.
The best part? They’re super easy to make! Just a handful of simple ingredients and a bit of oven time, and voila! You have juicy, crunchy wings that everyone will rave about. I often serve them with some homemade ranch or blue cheese dip – it adds that perfect creamy contrast. You might even want to try them alongside my loaded potato skins for a fun game-day treat! Trust me; once you try these wings, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Wings Recipe
- Perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside
- Simple spices elevate the flavor without overpowering the chicken
- Baking powder is the secret to achieving that ultimate crunch
- Quick prep time—just toss and bake!
- Customizable with your choice of wing sauce for unique flavor twists
- Healthy alternative to frying, with less mess and cleanup
- Ideal for gatherings, game day, or a casual night in
These wings are baked to perfection, and the use of baking powder not only helps achieve incredible crispiness but also makes them a healthier choice compared to traditional fried wings!
How to Make Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Wings
If you’re in the mood for something crunchy and full of flavor, these crispy oven-baked chicken wings are just what you need! They’re easy to make and perfect for game days, casual dinners, or when you’re craving a finger-lickin’ good snack.
What You’ll Need:
- Chicken wings – 2 lbs. I love fresh wings for the best texture, but frozen wings work too—just make sure to thaw them completely.
- Baking powder – 2 tbsp. This is the secret to achieving that fantastic crispiness!
- Salt – 1 tsp. Simple yet essential for flavor.
- Black pepper – 1 tsp. Freshly ground if possible for a bolder taste.
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp. A must for that savory kick!
- Onion powder – 1 tsp. This adds a delicious layer of flavor.
- Smoked paprika – 1 tsp. It gives a wonderful smoky depth!
- Cayenne pepper (optional) – ½ tsp. If you like some heat, this is your friend!
- Vegetable oil – 3 tbsp. I recommend a neutral oil like canola or sunflower.
- Your choice of wing sauce – For tossing after baking (e.g., buffalo, BBQ, teriyaki). Feel free to get creative with your favorite flavors!
The Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Removing that moisture is crucial for crispy wings, so don’t skip this step!
- In a large bowl, mix together the baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Add the dried chicken wings to the bowl and drizzle with the vegetable oil. Toss everything together until the wings are evenly coated in the spice mixture.
- Arrange the wings in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Remember to give them some space—no overcrowding here for maximum crispiness!
- Bake in your preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through for even crisping. They should look golden and delicious!
- Once baked, transfer the wings to a large bowl and toss them with your favorite wing sauce until they’re well coated.
- Serve immediately, and don’t forget to add some crunchy celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping if you’d like. Enjoy your deliciously crispy wings!
And there you have it—your perfect crispy oven-baked chicken wings ready to please your taste buds! Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! However, be sure to fully thaw the wings in the refrigerator before starting. To speed up thawing, submerge them in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about an hour. This will help ensure they crisp up nicely in the oven.
What Can I Substitute for Baking Powder?
If you don’t have baking powder on hand, you can make a substitute using 1/4 teaspoon baking soda mixed with 1/2 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice for every 1 teaspoon of baking powder needed. Just mix it quickly and add it to your dry ingredients.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Wings?
Store any leftover chicken wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Can I Use Other Seasonings for the Wings?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with any spices you love. Try adding lemon pepper, chili powder, or even a pinch of cumin for a different flavor profile. Just keep the proportions roughly similar to maintain the right balance.
