Baked Chicken Wings

Name: Baked Chicken Wings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Optional: your favorite wing sauce for tossing

Indulge in the irresistible taste of baked chicken wings that are not only easy to prepare but also healthier than their fried counterparts. This recipe promises a crispy exterior and juicy interior, making them the perfect snack for parties, game days, or a cozy night in. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these flavorful wings that can be customized with your favorite sauces and spices!

Ingredients

– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Optional: your favorite wing sauce for tossing

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 40 minutes, making it a quick and delicious option for any occasion.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (about 4 wings) contains approximately 350 calories, 22g of fat, 30g of protein, and 0g of carbohydrates. This information is based on one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
3. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
4. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
6. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack.
7. Bake for 25 minutes in the preheated oven.
8. Flip the wings and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the skin is crispy.
9. Optional: Toss the wings in your favorite sauce after baking.
10. Serve hot with dipping sauces of your choice.

Alternative Ingredients

If you’re short on time, you can use frozen chicken wings instead of fresh. Just ensure they are thawed before cooking. Additionally, feel free to swap spices to suit your taste, such as adding cayenne for heat or using different herbs.

Serving and Pairings

Baked chicken wings pair wonderfully with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or barbecue sauce. They also make a great addition to a platter with other appetizers.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover baked chicken wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to a month; just ensure they’re well-wrapped.

Cooking Mistakes

Not drying the wings properly, leading to soggy skin.
Overcrowding the baking sheet, which prevents crispiness.
Using too much sauce before baking, making them soggy.
Underestimating cooking time; always check for doneness.
Not flipping the wings halfway through baking for even cooking.

Helpful Tips

Experiment with different seasonings for unique flavors.
Marinate the wings overnight for enhanced taste.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).
Let the wings rest for a few minutes before serving for better texture.
For extra crispiness, broil the wings for the last 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, frozen chicken wings can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

How can I make the wings spicier?

You can add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or even chili powder to the spice mix to increase the heat level of your wings.

What sauces can I use for tossing the wings?

Popular options include buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, honey garlic, or teriyaki. Feel free to mix and match according to your preference.

How do I achieve extra crispy wings?

For extra crispiness, make sure to dry the wings thoroughly and consider broiling them for the last few minutes of cooking.

Can I grill the wings instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grilling is a great alternative. Just ensure to preheat the grill and cook over medium heat until fully cooked.

Conclusion

Baked chicken wings are a delicious, versatile dish that can be tailored to suit any palate. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and sauces to make this classic dish your own!