Print

Ultra Crispy Baked Chicken Wings: The No-Fry Secret

Close-up of several perfectly cooked, crispy chicken wing pieces with a dark, caramelized glaze.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make shatteringly crispy baked chicken wings in your oven that rival fried versions. This easy recipe uses a simple technique to keep the meat juicy while achieving perfect, crackling skin every time. It is ideal for game day, parties, or a quick weeknight appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs chicken wings (flats and drumettes separated)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire cooling rack on top of the prepared baking sheet.
  2. Pat the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels. This step is crucial for crispiness.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine the baking powder, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
  4. Add the dried chicken wings to the bowl. Toss thoroughly until every piece is lightly and evenly coated with the baking powder mixture.
  5. Arrange the coated wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring there is space between each wing for air circulation. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  6. Bake for 25 minutes.
  7. Flip each wing over. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and very crisp.
  8. Remove from the oven. You can serve the wings plain with a dry rub, or toss them immediately in your favorite wing sauce for sticky glazed wings.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, toss the wings in a dry rub mixture immediately after baking, before adding any sauce.
  • If you prefer a saucy finish, wait 5 minutes after removing the wings from the oven before tossing them in your chosen sauce. This helps the skin stay crisp longer.
  • If you plan to make Honey Garlic Wings or Lemon Pepper Wings, prepare the sauce or seasoning blend separately and toss the wings after the final baking step.

Nutrition