Crispy Chicken Wings (Easy, Flavorful & Crowd-Pleasing)
Crispy chicken wings are a classic favorite that never fail to impress. Perfectly seasoned with a golden, crunchy exterior and juicy meat inside, these wings are ideal for game day, casual gatherings, or an easy weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality wings right from your own kitchen.
What makes these chicken wings especially appealing is their versatility. They can be enjoyed plain and crispy or tossed in your favorite sauce for added flavor. Whether you prefer a spicy kick, a touch of sweetness, or a classic savory finish, these wings adapt easily to suit any craving.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these easy crispy chicken wings, gather the following ingredients:
2 pounds chicken wings
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional sauces: buffalo, honey garlic, or spicy BBQ
How to Make Crispy Chicken Wings
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Pat the chicken wings dry thoroughly with paper towels, then place them in a large mixing bowl.
Add the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until the wings are evenly coated with seasoning. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching to allow proper air circulation.
Bake for 40 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through to ensure even browning. For extra crispiness, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven and allow the wings to rest briefly before serving. Toss with your favorite sauce if desired, or enjoy them plain and crispy.
Tips for the Best Wings
For maximum crispiness, always start with dry wings and avoid overcrowding the pan. Cooking at a high temperature helps render the fat and crisp the skin. If using sauce, consider serving it on the side or tossing the wings just before serving to maintain their crunch.
FAQs
Can I make chicken wings ahead of time?
Yes. You can season the wings and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I make wings extra crispy?
Drying the wings thoroughly and using a high oven temperature are key. Broiling briefly at the end also helps enhance crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve crispy chicken wings with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your favorite dipping sauce. They pair well with simple sides like fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad and are always a hit at parties and gatherings.