These Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Dry Rub are packed with bold flavors and make the perfect snack or appetizer. Coated in a delicious blend of spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, these wings are baked to crispy perfection without the need for frying. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce or savor the dry rub on its own!

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings

• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon cumin

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.

2. Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine all spices to make the dry rub.

4. Drizzle olive oil over the wings and toss to coat.

5. Add the dry rub to the wings and mix thoroughly until evenly coated.

6. Arrange wings in a single layer on the wire rack.

7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until wings are crispy and cooked through.

8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as-is for full dry-rub flavor.

Nutrients

• Calories: 280 kcal per serving

• Servings: 4

Why Baked Wings?

The beauty of baked chicken wings lies in their ability to become crispy without the use of excessive oil. While fried chicken wings are undeniably delicious, they are often heavy and greasy. Baked wings, on the other hand, achieve that same crispy exterior, but in a much healthier way. By using a wire rack to elevate the wings during baking, the heat circulates evenly around them, allowing the fat to drain away and ensuring that every wing becomes golden and crispy without the added calories from frying.

Baking chicken wings also allows for easy preparation. You don’t need to worry about splattering oil or watching the stove constantly, as you would with frying. Once the wings are seasoned and arranged on the rack, they are left to bake in the oven, requiring little attention. This makes them not only healthier but also more convenient to prepare, leaving you free to focus on other tasks while they cook.

The Dry Rub: A Flavor Explosion

The dry rub for these chicken wings is the secret to their bold flavor. Combining ingredients like smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning, the rub creates a savory and aromatic base that perfectly complements the chicken’s natural flavor. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness that deepens the flavor, while garlic powder and onion powder provide a savory richness that is undeniably satisfying. Italian seasoning contributes an herby, slightly floral taste, making the wings even more aromatic.

Cayenne pepper, while optional, adds a kick of heat that enhances the overall flavor profile. For those who enjoy spicy foods, the cayenne brings an extra layer of complexity and warmth. Cumin adds an earthy note that rounds out the flavor, making the rub balanced and versatile enough to be enjoyed by everyone, from spice lovers to those who prefer milder flavors.

The beauty of using a dry rub is that it not only flavors the wings but also forms a flavorful crust during baking. As the rub heats up in the oven, it caramelizes on the surface of the wings, creating a crispy, flavorful coating that enhances each bite.

The Role of Olive Oil

Olive oil is an essential ingredient in this recipe, helping to ensure the chicken wings achieve their crispy texture. When tossed with the dry rub, the olive oil helps to bind the spices to the wings and ensures even coverage. It also contributes to the crisping process, allowing the dry rub to caramelize and become golden brown. Olive oil is a healthy fat, which makes it a great choice for this recipe, providing richness without compromising on health.

In addition to its role in creating a crispy texture, olive oil adds a subtle, mild flavor that complements the seasoning without overpowering the wings. It serves as a neutral base, allowing the spices to shine while also ensuring that the wings remain tender and juicy on the inside.

Baking for Perfection: The Secret to Crispy Wings

To achieve the perfect crispy baked chicken wings, there are a few important steps to follow. First, it’s essential to ensure that the wings are patted dry with paper towels before seasoning. Moisture on the skin can prevent the wings from becoming crispy, so removing excess moisture ensures that the rub adheres properly and the skin crisps up during baking.

Arranging the wings in a single layer on a wire rack is crucial for even cooking. The wire rack allows air to circulate around the wings, ensuring that they cook evenly and that the fat drips away, leaving the wings crispy rather than greasy. The rack also helps the wings cook faster and more evenly than if they were placed directly on a baking sheet, where the bottom might become soggy from the accumulated fat.

Baking the wings at 400°F (200°C) for 40-45 minutes ensures that they cook through and achieve that perfect crispy texture. Flipping the wings halfway through the cooking time is essential to ensure they crisp up on all sides. Once the wings are done, they should be golden brown and crispy, with the seasoning forming a flavorful crust on the outside.

The Perfect Dipping Sauce

While these crispy baked chicken wings are delicious on their own, a good dipping sauce can take them to the next level. Classic choices like ranch dressing, blue cheese, or buffalo sauce are always crowd favorites. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a spicy sriracha mayo or sweet chili sauce makes for a perfect complement to the wings. The coolness of the ranch or blue cheese dressing balances the heat of the cayenne in the rub, providing a satisfying contrast in flavor.

For a healthier option, you can pair the wings with a homemade yogurt-based dip. Mixing Greek yogurt with lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of olive oil creates a tangy and creamy dip that perfectly complements the bold flavors of the wings without the heaviness of traditional dipping sauces.

Why These Wings Are Perfect for Any Occasion

Crispy baked chicken wings with dry rub are incredibly versatile and can be served on a wide range of occasions. Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight meal for your family or hosting a larger gathering for a special event, these wings are sure to impress. They are perfect for game day, movie nights, or parties, where guests can snack on them easily while socializing. Their bold flavors make them a hit at barbecues or cookouts, and they pair well with other grilled or smoked dishes.

These wings are also a great option for meal prep. Since they hold up well in the refrigerator, you can make them in advance and reheat them when needed. Simply reheat the wings in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness, and they’ll taste just as fresh as when they were first baked.

The Healthier Alternative to Fried Wings

One of the most appealing aspects of these crispy baked chicken wings is that they are a healthier alternative to traditional fried wings. Baking rather than frying cuts down on the use of oil, resulting in wings that are lower in fat and calories. By using a dry rub instead of a batter or heavy breading, these wings also avoid unnecessary carbs and refined sugars, making them a more nutritious option for those watching their dietary intake.

Additionally, chicken wings are a good source of protein, making them a filling snack or appetizer. The lean meat of the chicken, combined with the flavorful rub, provides a satisfying bite without the greasy heaviness of fried options. These wings are a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy the deliciousness of wings without the guilt.

Leftover Wings: A Delicious Option for Future Meals

One of the great benefits of making a large batch of crispy baked chicken wings is that leftovers are easily enjoyed later. The wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispy texture. For those who want to repurpose leftovers, shredded chicken from the wings can be used in salads, tacos, wraps, or even added to soups for extra flavor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, crispy baked chicken wings with dry rub offer a flavorful, healthier alternative to fried wings without sacrificing taste or texture. The combination of bold spices, olive oil, and the baking method ensures that the wings are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with savory flavors. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce, these wings are sure to become a favorite snack or appetizer in your home. With minimal preparation and a simple cooking method, they are the perfect dish for any occasion, from casual meals to parties and gatherings.