These baked chicken wings are crispy, juicy, and simply irresistible! You can enjoy them plain or toss them in your favorite sauce for extra flavor. Perfect for sharing during game day!
I love how easy it is to make these wings! Just season, bake, and they’re ready to munch on. Plus, no frying means less mess and guilt. What’s not to love? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh chicken wings are key for this recipe. If you want a healthier option, consider using skinless wings or even chicken drumsticks. They cook similarly and will still taste great!
Olive Oil: This helps seasoning stick to the chicken. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use vegetable oil or avocado oil. They both work well but have different flavors.
Garlic & Onion Powder: These spices add depth to the flavor. If you don’t have them, fresh minced garlic and onion can substitute. Just remember to reduce the quantity since they’re stronger.
Smoked Paprika: I love its rich, smoky flavor. If you can’t find smoked paprika, regular paprika or even chili powder could work, though the taste will slightly change.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional and adds heat. If you’re not a fan of spice, you can leave it out. For a milder touch, try a pinch of paprika instead.
How Do I Get My Chicken Wings Extra Crispy?
Getting chicken wings crispy in the oven can be tricky, but there are a few smart tips. First, use a high temperature like 425°F (220°C), which helps create that crispy texture. It’s also key to ensure your wings aren’t crowded on the baking sheet. Crowding leads to steam, which makes them soggier.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for less mess.
- Flip your wings halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
- Let them rest a bit after baking – this allows moisture to redistribute.
How to Make Baked Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 40-45 minutes for baking. In total, you should expect to spend around 55-55 minutes before you can enjoy your crispy baked chicken wings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This helps to ensure your wings get nice and crispy as they bake. While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This makes cleanup a breeze!
2. Season the Wings:
In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings with the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you like a little heat). Use your hands or a spoon to toss the wings well, ensuring that they are evenly coated with all the seasonings. This will give them lots of flavor!
3. Arrange and Bake:
Carefully arrange the seasoned chicken wings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd them, as this can prevent them from getting crispy. Now, it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the wings for 40-45 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through cooking to get both sides nice and crispy.
4. Rest and Garnish:
Once the wings are golden brown and fully cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute. If you’d like to add a touch of color, garnish your baked chicken wings with freshly chopped parsley. Serve them up with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese dressing, and enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but you’ll need to thaw them first. Ideally, place them in the fridge overnight or submerge them in cold water in a sealed bag for a quicker thaw. Make sure to pat them dry before seasoning to remove excess moisture for crispier wings.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, feel free to use melted butter, canola oil, or avocado oil. Each will bring slightly different flavors, but they all work well for roasting the wings and ensuring they get crispy.
How to Store Leftover Baked Chicken Wings?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through to maintain their crispiness.
Can I Add More Spice to the Seasoning?
Absolutely! You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add other spices like chili powder or hot sauce to the mix. Just remember to adjust according to your taste preference, and start with a little since you can always add more later!
