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How to Make Truly Crispy Baked Chicken Wings

A close-up stack of golden brown, glazed crispy baked chicken wings on a white plate.

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Learn the simple secret to making truly crispy baked chicken wings in your oven without deep frying. This method gives you the ultimate crunch every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (not baking soda)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Optional: Your favorite sauce for tossing (like Buffalo or BBQ)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup, then place a wire cooling rack on top of the foil.
  2. Pat the chicken wings very dry using paper towels. Removing moisture is key to achieving crispiness.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and paprika.
  4. Add the dried chicken wings to the bowl and toss them thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated with the dry seasoning mixture. The baking powder helps dry out the skin.
  5. Arrange the coated wings in a single layer on the wire rack set over the baking sheet. Make sure the wings are not touching each other for best air circulation.
  6. Bake for 25 minutes.
  7. Flip the wings over. Return them 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 are using sauce, place the hot wings in a large bowl and toss them immediately with your favorite sauce until coated.
  9. Serve your extra crispy baked chicken wings right away with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing.

Notes

  • For the absolute crispiest skin, use aluminum-free baking powder.
  • Using a wire rack allows air to circulate completely around the wings, preventing a soggy bottom.
  • If you want extra crispiness after saucing, place the sauced wings back on the rack and broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

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