Crispy Baked Chicken Wings: Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer

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Craving crispy, mouthwatering chicken wings without the guilt? These baked wings are your new go-to!

Perfect for game nights, parties, or cozy dinners, they’re keto-friendly and gluten-free. You’ll love the bold flavors and crunchy texture.

No deep fryer needed, just a hot oven and simple ingredients. Make them in under an hour for a crowd-pleasing dish.

Customize with spicy buffalo sauce or garlic parmesan for extra flair. Pin this recipe for a budget-friendly, healthier twist on classic wings. Impress your guests and satisfy your cravings!

Why Choose This Recipe?

Crispy baked chicken wings offer multiple benefits. They’re low-carb, supporting keto or gluten-free diets. Unlike fried wings, these bake without excess oil, reducing fat.

You control the seasoning, ensuring no hidden sugars or gluten. Homemade wings cost less than takeout. Fresh ingredients enhance flavor.

This recipe allows customization, from mild to spicy. You avoid preservatives found in store-bought wings. It’s a healthier, budget-friendly alternative to traditional fried wings.

Why This Recipe Works

• Balanced seasoning: The spice blend enhances flavor without overpowering the chicken.
• High-heat baking: A hot oven ensures crispy skin without frying.
• Baking powder trick: It draws out moisture, creating a crunchy texture.
• Keto-friendly: Low-carb ingredients align with dietary goals.
• Simple technique: Minimal steps make it beginner-friendly.
• Flavor versatility: Easily adjust spices or sauces to suit tastes.

Essential Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken wings (about 20 wings)
• 1 tbsp baking powder (aluminum-free)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Optional Ingredients:

• ¼ cup hot sauce (for buffalo-style wings)
• 2 tbsp melted butter (for sauce)
• 1 tsp dried parsley (for garnish)

Substitutions:

• Replace olive oil with avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
• Use coconut aminos instead of hot sauce for a milder flavor.

Toppings/Variations:

• Blue cheese crumbles
• Ranch dressing
• Fresh chives

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Wire rack
• Parchment paper
• Tongs
• Measuring spoons
• Small bowl (for sauce)

How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Wings

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place a wire rack on the sheet.
4. Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels.
5. Combine baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne in a bowl.
6. Toss wings in olive oil in a large bowl.
7. Add spice mix to wings. Toss to coat evenly.
8. Arrange wings on the wire rack in a single layer.
9. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway.
10. Check for crispiness. Bake 5-10 minutes longer if needed.
11. For buffalo sauce, mix hot sauce and melted butter in a small bowl.
12. Toss baked wings in sauce, if desired.
13. Garnish with parsley or other toppings.
14. Serve hot with dipping sauces.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Tips for Success

• Dry wings thoroughly: Pat wings with paper towels to remove moisture for crispier skin.
• Use a wire rack: Elevating wings allows air circulation, preventing soggy bottoms.
• Don’t skip baking powder: It’s key to crispy texture without frying.
• Flip halfway: Rotate wings during baking for even crispiness.
• Make ahead: Season wings and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freeze for later: Freeze unbaked wings in a single layer, then transfer to a bag.
• Test doneness: Wings should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Nutritional Information

Per serving (5 wings, without sauce):

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Fat: 22g
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Net Carbs: 1g
• Fiber: 0g

Note: Values vary by ingredient brand. Check labels for keto or gluten-free compliance. Adding sauce increases calories and carbs slightly.

Customizing the Recipe

Adjust flavors to suit your preferences. Try these variations:

• Spicy: Increase cayenne or add chili flakes.
• Garlic Parmesan: Toss wings in melted butter, garlic, and grated parmesan.
• Vegetarian: Substitute wings with cauliflower florets for a meatless option.
• Herb-Infused: Add dried thyme or rosemary to the spice mix.
• Sweet and Tangy: Use a sugar-free BBQ sauce instead of hot sauce.

Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or dill. Swap paprika for chipotle powder for smokiness. Mix and match dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not drying wings: Wet wings steam instead of crisp. Pat dry thoroughly.
• Overcrowding the pan: Too many wings prevent even cooking. Use a single layer.
• Skipping the wire rack: Baking directly on the sheet causes soggy wings.
• Using baking soda: It’s not the same as baking powder. Stick to aluminum-free baking powder.
• Underseasoning: Don’t skimp on spices. Coat wings evenly for bold flavor.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Too low a temperature reduces crispiness. Use 425°F.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze baked wings in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place wings on a wire rack. Heat for 10-12 minutes.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 360°F (182°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Avoid, as it softens the crispy skin.

Keep sauces separate during storage to maintain texture. Label containers with dates for freshness.

Pairing Suggestions

Serve with keto-friendly sides like celery sticks or cucumber slices. Pair with a low-carb coleslaw for crunch. A green salad with avocado complements the wings.

For drinks, try sparkling water with lemon. Sugar-free iced tea works well too.

For dessert, opt for keto chocolate mousse or almond flour cookies. These pairings enhance the meal while staying low-carb.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen wings for this recipe?

Yes. Thaw frozen wings completely in the fridge overnight. Pat dry before seasoning to ensure crispiness.

How do I make the wings spicier?

Add more cayenne pepper or mix in sriracha with the hot sauce. Adjust to your heat preference.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Check hot sauce and baking powder labels to confirm they’re gluten-free.

How do I store leftover wings?

Place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I use an air fryer instead of an oven?

Yes. Cook at 400°F (204°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway. Check for crispiness.

What dipping sauces pair well?

Ranch, blue cheese, or sugar-free BBQ sauce are great choices. Ensure they’re keto-friendly.

Can I prep the wings ahead of time?

Yes. Season wings and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Cover tightly to prevent drying.