Baked Chicken Wings

Name: Baked Chicken Wings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken wings; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Fresh herbs for garnish

Looking for a delicious and easy way to enjoy chicken wings? This baked chicken wings recipe delivers crispy, flavorful wings without the mess of frying. Perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy night in, these wings are sure to please everyone. With a variety of seasonings, you can customize the flavor to your liking. Read on to find out how to make these mouthwatering wings at home!

Ingredients

– 2 lbs chicken wings
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or thyme)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 40-45 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (about 6-8 wings) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 22g
– Carbohydrates: 0g
– Fiber: 0g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
3. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
4. Add chicken wings to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
5. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
7. Flip the wings and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until crispy.
8. Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
9. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
10. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute olive oil with melted butter or avocado oil for a different flavor. For seasoning, feel free to try different spices like chili powder or lemon pepper, depending on your taste preferences.

Serving and Pairings

Baked chicken wings are fantastic with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with celery and carrot sticks, alongside ranch or blue cheese dressing. They also pair well with potato wedges or a fresh salad.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Yes, these wings can be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped.

Cooking Mistakes

Not drying the wings before seasoning can lead to soggy skin.
Overcrowding the baking sheet can prevent proper crisping.
Skipping the wire rack will result in uneven cooking.
Not preheating the oven can lead to longer cook times.
Under-seasoning can make the wings bland.
Flipping the wings too soon can cause them to stick.
Not letting the wings rest after cooking can trap moisture.

Helpful Tips

Pat the wings dry with paper towels for extra crispiness.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (165°F/74°C).
Marinate the wings overnight for enhanced flavor.
Experiment with different sauces for variety.
For extra crunch, broil the wings for the last few minutes of cooking.

FAQs

How long should I bake chicken wings?

Bake chicken wings at 425°F (220°C) for about 40-45 minutes for optimal crispiness. Ensure you flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings. Just increase the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What sauces can I use for baked chicken wings?

You can use a variety of sauces, including buffalo, barbecue, or garlic parmesan. Toss the wings in your preferred sauce after baking for added flavor.

Are baked wings healthy?

Baked chicken wings are generally healthier than fried wings as they contain less oil and fewer calories. You can also control the seasoning and portion sizes.

Can I make these wings ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the wings ahead and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them in the oven before serving for the best texture.

Conclusion

Baked chicken wings are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and customize. With the right seasonings and cooking methods, you can achieve that crispy texture without frying. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious wings!