Crispy oven-baked chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthier Alternative: Baking the wings reduces the need for excessive oil, making them a healthier option compared to traditional frying methods.
• Flavorful Dry Rub: The homemade dry rub infuses the wings with a balanced blend of sweet, savory, and spicy notes, elevating their taste.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for novice cooks.
• Versatile Serving Options: These wings pair well with various dipping sauces and can be customized to suit different flavor preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken wing portions
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground mustard
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
2. Prepare the Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil until evenly coated.
3. Mix the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, paprika, salt, chili powder, and red pepper flakes if using.
4. Season the Wings: Sprinkle the dry rub over the oiled wings and toss until each piece is thoroughly coated with the spice mixture.
5. Arrange for Baking: Place the seasoned wings on the prepared wire rack in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching each other.
6. Bake: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the wings are golden brown and crispy. Flip the wings halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning.
7. Serve: Once done, remove the wings from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with your preferred dipping sauces.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: For those who prefer extra heat, increase the amount of chili powder and red pepper flakes in the dry rub.
• Herb-Infused: Add dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the dry rub for an aromatic twist.
• Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or lime zest into the dry rub to impart a fresh, zesty flavor to the wings.
• Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika to introduce a subtle smoky undertone.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Place any leftover wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat the wings in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may result in soggy skin.

FAQs

How do I ensure my baked chicken wings are crispy?

Patting the wings dry before applying oil and seasoning helps remove excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Additionally, baking the wings on a wire rack allows air to circulate evenly, promoting crispiness.

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before proceeding with the recipe to achieve the best texture and flavor.

Is it necessary to flip the wings during baking?

Flipping the wings halfway through baking ensures even browning and crispiness on all sides.

Can I prepare the dry rub in advance?

Absolutely! The dry rub can be mixed ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months. This allows for quick preparation when you’re ready to cook.

What dipping sauces pair well with these wings?

Classic options like ranch, blue cheese dressing, or barbecue sauce complement these savory wings. For a tangy contrast, consider serving them with a honey mustard or a spicy sriracha mayo.

How can I make these wings gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t involve any wheat-based ingredients. Just ensure that all your spices are certified gluten-free, especially if you have a sensitivity.

Can I grill these wings instead of baking them?

Yes, grilling is a great alternative. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the wings for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are crispy and fully cooked.

How do I adjust the recipe for a larger crowd?

To serve more people, simply multiply the ingredient quantities accordingly. Ensure the wings are arranged in a single layer on the baking racks; if necessary, use multiple baking sheets to avoid overcrow

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