Crispy Baked Chicken Wings

Introduction

Crispy Baked Chicken Wings are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for game day, parties, or any casual gathering. These chicken wings are baked to crispy perfection and tossed in a savory sauce, offering all the flavor and crunch without the mess of frying. They’re sure to be a hit with everyone!

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
  • 2 tablespoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Preparation Steps

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
  2. Prepare the Chicken Wings:
    • In a large bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
    • Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels, then toss them in the baking powder mixture until they are evenly coated.
  3. Bake the Wings:
    • Arrange the coated chicken wings on the wire rack in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
  4. Prepare the Sauce:
    • In a small saucepan, combine the melted butter, hot sauce, honey, and soy sauce. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is heated through and well combined.
  5. Toss the Wings:
    • Once the chicken wings are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the sauce over the wings and toss until they are evenly coated.
  6. Serve:
    • Transfer the sauced wings to a serving platter and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
    • Serve immediately with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing on the side.

Historical Context

Chicken wings have become a beloved staple in American cuisine, particularly associated with game day and casual gatherings. Originally popularized in Buffalo, New York, the classic “Buffalo wing” has inspired countless variations. Baking the wings instead of frying offers a healthier alternative while still delivering that crave-worthy crunch.

Nutritional Information

Crispy Baked Chicken Wings are a tasty treat that can be enjoyed in moderation:

  • Chicken Wings: Provide protein and essential nutrients.
  • Baking Powder: Helps achieve a crispy texture without frying.
  • Hot Sauce and Honey: Add flavor with minimal calories.

Conclusion and Serving Suggestions

Crispy Baked Chicken Wings are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve them with classic sides like celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing for a complete experience. This recipe is sure to become a favorite, offering all the deliciousness of fried wings with the convenience and ease of baking.

Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with sauce, served with celery sticks and dressing