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Extra Crispy Baked Chicken Wings (No Frying Required)

A pile of perfectly crispy, golden brown fried chicken wings served on a white plate.

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Learn the simple technique to make incredibly crispy baked chicken wings in your oven that rival fried versions. These wings are juicy inside with perfectly golden, crackling skin, making them ideal for game day or parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs chicken wings (flats and drumettes separated)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire cooling rack on top of the baking sheet.
  2. Pat the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispiness.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the baking powder, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. This is your dry rub.
  4. Add the dried chicken wings to the bowl. Toss thoroughly until every piece is lightly and evenly coated with the baking powder mixture.
  5. Arrange the coated wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring there is space between each wing for air circulation. Do not overcrowd the rack.
  6. Bake for 25 minutes.
  7. Flip each wing over. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until the skin is deeply golden brown and very crispy.
  8. Remove the wings from the oven. If you plan to toss them in sauce (like Buffalo or Honey BBQ), do so immediately while hot. Serve right away for the best texture.

Notes

  • For the crispiest results, use aluminum-free baking powder; it helps raise the skin’s pH level, promoting browning and crisping.
  • If you prefer sauced wings, toss them in your favorite sauce immediately after they come out of the oven, then return them to the oven under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to set the sauce.
  • If you are using an air fryer, cook at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

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