Crispy, Juicy, and Flavorful: The Ultimate Chicken Wings Recipe You’ll Crave

Looking for the best chicken wings recipe that’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any occasion? Chicken wings are the ultimate crowd-pleaser whether you’re hosting a game night, planning a family dinner, or meal-prepping high-protein lunches.

In this post, you’ll discover a foolproof method for making crispy, juicy chicken wings using simple ingredients—no deep fryer required. We’ll also share tips for air-fried and oven-baked options, flavor variations, and serving ideas.

The Best Chicken Wings Recipe (Crispy + Juicy!)

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken wings (split at joints, tips removed)
• 1 tbsp baking powder (NOT baking soda) – helps crisp the skin
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Optional: smoked paprika or chilli powder for added heat

Instructions

Oven-Baked Chicken Wings Method

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack over a baking sheet and lightly grease it.
2. Pat dry chicken wings using paper towels. This is key to achieving crispiness.
3. Toss wings with baking powder and seasonings in a large bowl until evenly coated.
4. Arrange wings in a single layer on the wire rack.
5. Bake for 45–50 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.

Air Fryer Chicken Wings Method (Faster Option)

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss seasoned wings in a bowl.
3. Place wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
4. Air fry for 18–22 minutes flipping halfway.

Optional Wing Sauces

Choose your favourite to toss with the wings after cooking:

• Classic Buffalo Sauce: ¼ cup hot sauce + 2 tbsp melted butter
• Honey Garlic: 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp soy sauce, one minced garlic clove
• BBQ Glaze: ¼ cup BBQ sauce + a dash of vinegar

Pro tip: Toss wings in sauce just before serving to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition (Per 4 oz serving, baked version)

• Calories: 260
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbs: 1g
• Sugar: 0g

Great for high-protein diets low-carb lifestyles and meal prep.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your homemade chicken wings with:

• Celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dip
• Sweet potato fries or roasted veggies
• Coleslaw or a crisp garden salad
• Garlic bread or sliders for hearty meals

Perfect for:

• Game Day
• Movie Night
• Potlucks
• Meal Prep

Chicken Wings Recipe Tips & Variations

• Dry thoroughly for crispier skin. Moisture is the enemy of crunch.
• Don’t overcrowd the tray or air fryer basket. Give wings room to crisp.
• Want extra heat? Add cayenne or hot sauce.
• No wire rack? Flip wings often to avoid sogginess.
• Make ahead: Cook wings and reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes.

Freezer-Friendly Instructions

Want to make your chicken wings recipe ahead of time?

1. Cook wings fully.
2. Let them cool and freeze in airtight bags.
3. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until crisp and hot.

Final Thoughts

This easy chicken wings recipe is your go-to solution for delicious, crispy wings without the fuss of deep frying. Whether baked or air-fried, they’re flavorful and can be customized to suit any taste—buffalo, garlic parmesan, BBQ, or sweet and spicy.

Make them part of your weekly meal prep, a highlight for your next party platter, or a satisfying dinner with a side salad and a hydrating smoothie.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen wings?

Thaw completely and dry them well before seasoning and cooking.

Are baked or air-fried wings healthier?

Both use little to no oil, making them much healthier than deep-fried versions.

How do I store leftover wings?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.