Baked Chicken Wings

Here’s a simple and tasty recipe for Baked Chicken Wings that are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of flavor. These wings are perfect for game day, parties, or a delicious weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

• For the chicken wings:
  • 2 lbs chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (optional, for extra crispiness)
• For the dipping sauce (optional):
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• For additional flavor (optional):
  • Hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot) or BBQ sauce, for tossing the wings after baking

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. If you want extra crispy wings, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet.
2. Prepare the chicken wings:
   • Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the wings crisp up in the oven.
   • Place the wings in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
   • Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and baking powder (if using). Toss again to coat the wings evenly with the seasonings.
3. Arrange the wings:
   • Arrange the seasoned chicken wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet (or wire rack). Make sure the wings are not overcrowded for even cooking and crisping.
4. Bake the wings:
   • Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
   • After 25 minutes, flip the wings over and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the wings are golden brown and crispy on both sides. If you’re using a wire rack, the wings may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them.
5. Optional: Toss in sauce:
   • If you like your wings saucy, toss the baked wings in your favorite hot sauce, BBQ sauce, or a mix of both. For a classic buffalo-style wing, combine melted butter and hot sauce, then toss the wings in the sauce.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the baked chicken wings with dipping sauce (ranch or blue cheese) and chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Tips:

• For extra crispiness, make sure the wings are as dry as possible before seasoning, and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
• Customize the seasoning: You can add cayenne pepper for heat, smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or even dry ranch seasoning for extra zest.
• Storage: Leftover wings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.

These Baked Chicken Wings are easy to make and full of flavor, offering a healthier option to fried wings without sacrificing taste or crispiness. Enjoy!