Crispy Baked Chicken Wings

A simple, healthier alternative to fried wings, with a crispy coating and a delicious buffalo sauce.

Ingredients

For the Wings (makes about 8 servings)

• 4 pounds chicken wings (halved at joints, wingtips discarded)
• 2 tablespoons baking powder (aluminum-free)
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Buffalo Sauce

• 1/3 cup Frank’s Hot Wings Sauce
• 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon water

Optional Sauces

• Honey BBQ sauce
• Ranch dressing
• Honey garlic sauce
• BBQ sauce

Equipment

• Baking sheet lined with aluminum foil
• Wire rack (such as a cooling rack)
• Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep:

   • Adjust your oven rack to the upper-middle position.
   • Preheat oven to 425°F.
   • Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray the rack with non-stick spray.

2. Dry the Wings:

   • Pat the wings very dry with paper towels.
   • Place them in a large bowl.

3. Season the Wings:

   • In a small bowl, mix together baking powder, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
   • Sprinkle the seasoning over the wings, tossing to coat evenly.

4. Bake:

   • Arrange the wings skin side up in a single layer on the prepared rack.
   • Bake, turning every 20 minutes, until the wings are crispy and browned (may take up to 1 hour, depending on size).

5. Make the Buffalo Sauce (if using):

   • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, stir together Frank’s Hot Wings Sauce, brown sugar, and water.
   • Stir until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.

6. Finish and Serve:

   • Let the baked wings rest for 5 minutes.
   • Toss them in your chosen sauce or serve sauce on the side.

Enjoy your crispy, flavorful baked chicken wings!