Crispy Baked Chicken Wings
Servings: 4 (about 2 lbs of wings)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
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1 kg (2.2 lbs) chicken wings, separated at joints, tips removed
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1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
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1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for coating)
Optional for Serving:
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Hot sauce, barbecue sauce, honey garlic glaze, or ranch dressing
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Celery sticks or carrot sticks
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Lightly spray the rack with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Pat Wings Dry:
Using paper towels, thoroughly pat the chicken wings dry. The drier the skin, the crispier the wings will be.
3. Season the Wings:
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In a large bowl, combine baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
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Add the wings and toss to coat evenly.
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Optionally, drizzle with olive oil and toss again to help spices adhere.
Note: Baking powder (not baking soda) raises the pH of the skin, helping it brown and crisp in the oven.
4. Arrange on Rack:
Place wings in a single layer on the prepared wire rack, skin-side up. Make sure they are not touching to allow proper air circulation.
5. Bake:
Bake for 45–50 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through cooking.
They should be golden brown and the skin should be crisp when done.
6. Toss or Serve Plain:
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For sauced wings: Toss the hot wings in your favorite warm sauce (e.g., buffalo, barbecue, or honey garlic).
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For dry wings: Serve immediately with dipping sauces on the side.
Tips for Success:
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Use aluminum-free baking powder to avoid a metallic taste.
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A wire rack ensures even crisping on all sides.
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For extra crispness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
Storage and Reheating:
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Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat in a 200°C (400°F) oven or air fryer until hot and crispy, about 8–10 minutes.
Let me know if you’d like a sauce recipe, air fryer method, or a spicy rub variation for these wings.