Description

Achieve restaurant-quality crunch with these baked chicken wings using a simple smoky dry rub and a wire rack. This foolproof method ensures crispy, non-greasy wings without the hassle of deep-frying.

Ingredients

Scale

3 to 4 pounds chicken wings (party style: drumettes and flatettes)
1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, for caramelization)

Instructions

Pat the chicken wings very dry with paper towels to remove surface moisture.
Place dried wings in a large bowl and sprinkle with baking powder. Toss until lightly coated.
Let wings sit uncovered in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours) to air-dry the skin.
In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
Remove wings from fridge. Drizzle with vegetable oil and toss to coat lightly.
Sprinkle the dry rub over the wings and massage it into the skin until evenly coated.
Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange wings in a single layer on the rack, ensuring they are not touching.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping wings halfway through (around 20 minutes) to ensure even browning.
Wings are done when skin is golden brown, crispy, and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Let wings rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Patting the wings dry is the most critical step for crispiness. Using a wire rack allows air circulation underneath the wings. If you don’t have a rack, you can bake directly on the pan, but the bottom may be less crispy. To keep wings warm for a party, place them in a 200°F oven. To re-crisp leftovers, bake at 400°F for 10 minutes; do not microwave.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 wing
Calories: 120
Sodium: 150
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 2
Carbohydrates: 0.5
Protein: 10

Keywords: baked chicken wings, game day food, smoky dry rub, crispy wings, football snacks, easy appetizer, gluten-free