Description
These Crispy Baked Chicken Wings deliver all the flavor and crunch of traditional fried wings, but baked in the oven for a healthier and less messy preparation. Coated in a savory and aromatic seasoning blend, then tossed in your favorite hot wing sauce, these wings are perfect for game day, parties, or a delicious weeknight snack.
Ingredients
Seasoning Mix
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Chicken Wings
- 4 lbs chicken wings and/or drumettes (see notes)
- 2 egg whites, beaten until frothy
Sauce
- ½ cup hot wings sauce (use your favorite sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Rack: Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and set a metal cooling rack on top. Spray the rack with no-stick spray and set aside to ensure the wings cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
- Dry the Chicken Wings: Thoroughly pat the chicken wings dry using paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the wings become crispier in the oven.
- Season the Wings: Place the wings in a large bowl and toss with the seasoning mix (kosher salt, garlic powder, ground cumin, paprika, onion powder, and black pepper) until evenly coated. This creates a well-balanced, flavorful crust.
- Coat with Egg Whites: Pour the beaten and frothy egg whites over the seasoned wings and toss with tongs or clean hands until every wing is fully and evenly coated. This binding step helps the seasonings stick and promotes a crisp texture.
- Arrange on Rack: Transfer the coated wings skin side up to the prepared baking sheet with the rack. Spacing them out on the rack ensures air circulation, which crisps the skin.
- Bake the Wings: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the wings for 45-60 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Baking times can vary depending on oven and wing size, so start checking around 45 minutes.
- Toss in Sauce: Remove the wings from the oven. Transfer them to a large bowl and gently toss with your favorite hot wing sauce until fully coated for that classic buffalo wing flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your crispy baked wings immediately. For an authentic experience, offer ranch or blue cheese dressing along with celery and carrot sticks as refreshing sides.
Notes
- You can use a mix of chicken wing flats and drumettes depending on your preference.
- Patting the wings dry is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- If you prefer less spicy wings, adjust the hot wing sauce or use a milder sauce.
- Using a metal rack allows heat to circulate around the wings for even cooking and crispiness.
- Allow wings to cool slightly before tossing with sauce to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American