Golden Crispy Chicken Wings (Baked or Air-Fried)

These golden crispy chicken wings are perfectly seasoned, baked or air-fried to crunchy perfection, and served with your favorite dipping sauce. They’re ideal for game days, parties, or simply as a satisfying appetizer or main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No deep-frying required
• Ultra crispy skin with juicy meat inside
• Simple seasoning with big flavor
• Great for entertaining or snacking
• Easily adaptable to any dipping sauce or dry rub

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
• Baking powder (aluminum-free)
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil spray or cooking spray
• Dipping sauce of choice (buffalo, ranch, BBQ, etc.)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat chicken wings completely dry using paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, toss wings with baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Place wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet (for oven) or directly into the air fryer basket.
5. Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, or air-fry for 25–30 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally.
6. Remove when wings are golden and crisp.
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4–6
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40–45 minutes (oven) or 25–30 minutes (air fryer)
Total time: Up to 50 minutes

Variations

• Toss in buffalo, BBQ, or teriyaki sauce after cooking.
• Add cayenne pepper to the dry rub for more heat.
• Finish with a drizzle of honey or hot honey for a sweet-spicy contrast.
• Try a lemon pepper seasoning blend for a zesty version.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–8 minutes until re-crisped.
• Not ideal for freezing due to texture loss upon thawing.

FAQs

Why use baking powder on chicken wings?

It helps draw moisture from the skin, making it extra crispy in the oven or air fryer.

Can I deep-fry these wings instead?

Yes, but this recipe is designed to avoid deep-frying while achieving similar crispiness.

Do I need to marinate the wings?

No marination is necessary—season and bake right away.

How do I know when the wings are done?

They should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I use frozen wings?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning.

What’s the best dipping sauce for these wings?

Buffalo, ranch, blue cheese, or honey mustard are all excellent choices.

Can I cook these wings without a wire rack?

Yes, but a rack allows better air circulation and crispier skin.

Can I make them in advance?

You can bake them and re-crisp in the oven or air fryer just before serving.

How do I keep the wings crispy after cooking?

Place them on a wire rack and avoid covering them tightly until ready to serve.

Can I make these wings gluten-free?

Yes, ensure all seasonings and baking powder are gluten-free.

Conclusion

These golden crispy chicken wings are a crowd-pleasing favorite that deliver bold flavor and addictive crunch—without the mess of frying. Whether baked or air-fried, they’re simple to make and irresistible to eat.

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