- Prep the Wings:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a rack on a baking sheet and lightly grease it with cooking spray. This setup helps air circulate around the wings, making them crispy.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Removing as much moisture as possible is crucial for achieving crispiness.
- Season the Wings:
- In a large bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Add the dried chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mix.
- Arrange the Wings:
- Place the wings in a single layer on the prepared rack, ensuring they are not touching. This allows the heat to circulate around each wing, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-50 minutes, or until the wings are golden brown and crispy. Flip the wings halfway through the cooking time to ensure they crisp up evenly on both sides.
- Prepare the Sauce (Optional):
- While the wings are baking, prepare your sauce if using. Combine the hot sauce, melted butter, honey (if using), and minced garlic (if using) in a small bowl. Mix well.
- Toss the Wings in Sauce:
- Once the wings are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. If you’re using the sauce, place the wings in a large bowl and pour the sauce over them. Toss until the wings are evenly coated.
- Serve:
- Serve the wings hot, with your choice of dipping sauces, celery sticks, and carrot sticks on the side.
Tips for Success:
- Baking Powder Magic: The secret to crispy oven-baked wings is the baking powder. It helps draw moisture to the surface of the skin, where it can evaporate, leaving the skin incredibly crispy.
- Do Not Overcrowd: Make sure the wings are not touching on the rack. This ensures maximum airflow and crispiness.
- Flipping is Key: Flipping the wings halfway through baking ensures they get crispy on all sides.
Conclusion:
Oven-fried chicken wings offer the perfect balance of ease, healthiness, and deliciousness. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic taste of fried wings without the hassle of deep frying. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or just indulging in a personal treat, these wings are sure to satisfy your cravings. Experiment with different sauces and seasonings to make this recipe your own. Enjoy the process of cooking and the joy of sharing these delectable wings with your loved ones.