Perfectly Crispy Baked Chicken Wings Recipe
Are you tired of soggy, bland chicken wings that fail to impress your guests?
You’ve tried countless recipes, but they always fall short, leaving you frustrated and craving that crispy, flavorful perfection.
Our baked chicken wings recipe is here to save the day! With a perfectly seasoned spice rub and simple baking techniques, you’ll achieve crispy, flavorful wings every time. Say goodbye to disappointing wings and hello to a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Ingredients
To make these irresistible chicken wings, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 pounds chicken wings (or winglets, if preferred)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika (smoked or regular)
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ cup butter (for a glossy finish)
- Baking spray (for greasing the pan)
- Paper towels (for drying wings)
Preparing the Chicken Wings
Breaking Down the Wings
If you’ve purchased whole chicken wings, you’ll need to break them down into flats and drumettes. Here’s how:
- Separate the Wing Sections: Using a sharp knife, cut through the joint to separate the drumette from the flat. Discard or freeze the wing tips for future use in making chicken stock.
- Remove Tendons: Trim any remaining tendons or bone fragments to ensure a smooth eating experience.
Drying the Wings
For the crispiest wings, it’s crucial to start with dry skin. Pat the chicken wings thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step helps the skin crisp up nicely during baking.
Making the Spice Rub
Ingredients for the Rub
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika (smoked or regular, based on preference)
- 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (for extra crispiness)
Mixing the Spice Rub
- In a large bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and baking powder.
- Whisk the mixture until well combined.
Coating the Wings
- Place the dried chicken wings into the bowl with the spice rub.
- Toss the wings until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
Baking the Chicken Wings
Prepping the Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Grease a rimmed baking sheet with baking spray to prevent sticking.
Arranging the Wings
- Spread the coated chicken wings out on the baking sheet in a single layer. Ensure there is space between each wing to allow for proper air circulation, which helps them crisp up.
Baking Time
- Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. If you’re using larger wings, they may take a bit longer.
- For an extra crispy finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Finishing Touches
Preparing the Butter Glaze
- Melt ½ cup of butter in the microwave at half power.
- If desired, season the melted butter with additional salt or garlic salt for extra flavor.
Tossing the Wings
- Once the wings are baked to crispy perfection, transfer them to a large bowl.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the wings and toss to coat evenly.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy baked chicken wings are perfect for game day, parties, or as a delicious snack. They are flavorful on their own, but you can also serve them with your favorite dipping sauces or sides like ranch, celery sticks, or a fresh salad.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow any leftover wings to cool completely before storing.
- Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
With this simple and straightforward recipe, you’ll be able to create deliciously crispy chicken wings that are perfect for any occasion. By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your wings are well-seasoned and have the perfect crunch. We hope you enjoy making and eating these wings as much as we do!
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore our other chicken recipes and cooking tips on My Kitchen Talk. Happy cooking!