Crispy Baked Chicken Wings You’ll Love!

Crispy Baked Chicken Wings You’ll Love!

Baked chicken wings: try this easy, crispy recipe that’s packed with flavor. Perfect for game day and gatherings with friends!

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Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp cooking oil
• 2.5 lbs chicken wings or drumettes

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 400ºF. In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, paprika, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, pepper, and salt.
2. Pat the wings dry, then place them in a bowl. Drizzle the cooking oil over top, then toss until the wings are coated in oil. Add the cornstarch-seasoning mixture, then toss to coat again.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, then place wire cooling racks on top. Place the seasoned chicken wings on the wire racks with space between each wing.
4. Bake the wings for 30 minutes, then flip and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the wings have achieved the amount of browning desired (this will depend on the size of your wings).
5. Serve hot with your favorite sauce!

Notes

Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.

The technique that makes it

The secret to achieving perfectly crispy baked chicken wings lies in the use of cornstarch and proper heat management. Cornstarch creates a thin layer on the wings that absorbs moisture, allowing for a crispier exterior as they bake. The combination of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper not only enhances flavor but also contributes to the browning process, known as the Maillard reaction. This reaction occurs when proteins and sugars in the chicken wings react under heat, resulting in a golden, crispy skin. For optimal results, ensure the oven is preheated to a high temperature, around 425°F (220°C), to promote immediate browning and crisping.

Troubleshooting

• Wings are not crispy: Ensure you applied enough cornstarch and that the oven was preheated adequately. If they still lack crispiness, try increasing the cooking time or using a convection setting if available.
• Uneven cooking: If some wings are undercooked while others are overcooked, try arranging them in a single layer with space between each piece. This promotes even airflow and heat distribution.
• Too salty: If the wings taste overly salty, reduce the salt in the seasoning mix. You can also rinse the wings before seasoning to remove excess salt.
• Flavor is lacking: If the wings taste bland, consider marinating them in a mix of oil and spices for a few hours before applying the cornstarch mixture. This will help infuse more flavor into the meat.

Substitutions

• Cornstarch: Substitute with arrowroot powder for a similar crisping effect, though it may yield a slightly different texture.
• Smoked paprika: Use regular paprika or chipotle powder for a different flavor profile, keeping in mind that chipotle will add heat.
• Cayenne pepper: Replace with crushed red pepper flakes for a milder heat, or omit entirely if you prefer no spice.
• Cooking oil: Olive oil can be swapped for avocado oil, which has a higher smoke point and will also help achieve crispiness.

Pro tips

Pro tip: Best served immediately while hot!

Frequently asked questions