There’s nothing quite like a plate of hot, juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken wings — but what if you could achieve that irresistible crispy skin without deep frying? That’s exactly what these Baked Chicken Wings deliver. Inspired by classic American comfort food, these wings are baked until golden and tender, coated in a bold, flavorful spice mix that takes them to the next level.

Growing up, wings were a staple for game days and big family gatherings. While my grandmother always reached for her deep fryer, I’ve found that baking them is not only easier and healthier, but it also lets the flavors shine through without the heavy oil. With a powerful blend of garlic, cumin, paprika, and a touch of cayenne, these wings come out beautifully crisp on the outside and juicy on the inside — guaranteed to disappear in minutes at your next party.

Why You’ll Love These Baked Chicken Wings

• Oven-baked for a healthier twist without sacrificing crunch
• Packed with bold, smoky, and savory spices
• Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd
• Easy to customize with your favorite seasonings
• Perfect for year-round parties, potlucks, or casual dinners

Ingredients

For the Baked Chicken Wings:

• 2 pounds (900g) split chicken wings
• ½ cup oil (vegetable or olive oil)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1½ teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon instant chicken stock (optional, for extra savory flavor)

Optional Garnish:

• Lemon slices
• Fresh chopped cilantro

How to Make Baked Chicken Wings

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix

In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and instant chicken stock if using. This spice blend is what gives the wings their rich, well-rounded flavor.

Step 2: Season the Chicken Wings

Place the split chicken wings in a large salad bowl. Drizzle the oil over the wings, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly on top. Use clean hands or a large spoon to toss the wings thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated in oil and spices.

Allow the wings to rest for at least 30 minutes so the spices can soak in — or, for even more flavor, cover and refrigerate them overnight.

Step 3: Bake the Wings

Preheat your oven to 450ºF (230ºC) with the rack in the middle position. While the oven heats, line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Arrange the seasoned chicken wings on the baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded.

When you place the wings in the oven, reduce the temperature to 340ºF (170ºC) and bake for 50–60 minutes. If you like, flip them halfway through to ensure even crisping.

Step 4: Rest and Garnish

Once baked, carefully remove the wings from the oven and place the baking sheet on a cooling rack. Let them rest for about 5 minutes — this helps the juices redistribute and keeps the wings crisp.

Garnish with lemon slices and fresh cilantro for a pop of color and bright flavor. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Tips for the Best Baked Chicken Wings

• Pat the wings dry before seasoning to ensure crisp skin
• Use a wire rack on top of your baking sheet if you want extra air circulation for even crisping
• Customize the spices to your liking — smoked paprika, chili powder, or even lemon pepper work well
• Don’t skip the rest time after baking, it makes a big difference for tenderness
• Marinate overnight if possible for deeper flavor

Serving Suggestions

Baked chicken wings are a fantastic blank canvas. Here are a few ways to serve them:

• Game Day Platter: Add celery sticks, blue cheese or ranch dressing, and carrot sticks for a classic sports snack
• Family Dinner: Serve with baked potato wedges and a fresh salad
• Summer BBQ: Pair with grilled corn on the cob and an ice-cold lemonade
• Winter Comfort: Enjoy with mac and cheese or warm potato salad

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 375ºF (190ºC) oven for about 10 minutes, which helps preserve their crispy texture.

FAQs

Can I freeze baked chicken wings?
Yes — let them cool completely, then store in an airtight freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375ºF (190ºC) for 15–20 minutes.

Do I have to use oil?
A bit of oil helps the seasonings stick and promotes browning, but you can reduce the amount slightly if you prefer.

Can I use boneless chicken?
Absolutely — boneless chicken thighs or drumsticks work great with the same spice blend.

Let’s Stay Connected

If you try these Baked Chicken Wings, I’d love to know how they turned out! Feel free to leave a comment or tag me on social media so I can see your delicious creation.

The Goods

Baked Chicken Wings

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These easy Baked Chicken Wings are crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor thanks to a simple homemade spice rub. Perfect for parties or family dinners.

Course Chicken, Dinner, Lunch, Main Course

Cuisine American

Recipes

For the Baked Chicken Wings:

• 2 pounds 900g split chicken wings
• ½ cup oil vegetable or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1½ teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt or to taste
• 1 teaspoon instant chicken stock optional, for extra savory flavor

Optional Garnish:

• Lemon slices
• Fresh chopped cilantro

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Mix

• In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and instant chicken stock if using. This spice blend is what gives the wings their rich, well-rounded flavor.

Step 2: Season the Chicken Wings

• Place the split chicken wings in a large salad bowl. Drizzle the oil over the wings, then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly on top. Use clean hands or a large spoon to toss the wings thoroughly, ensuring every piece is coated in oil and spices.
• Allow the wings to rest for at least 30 minutes so the spices can soak in — or, for even more flavor, cover and refrigerate them overnight.

Step 3: Bake the Wings

• Preheat your oven to 450ºF (230ºC) with the rack in the middle position. While the oven heats, line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup.
• Arrange the seasoned chicken wings on the baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded.
• When you place the wings in the oven, reduce the temperature to 340ºF (170ºC) and bake for 50–60 minutes. If you like, flip them halfway through to ensure even crisping.

Step 4: Rest and Garnish

• Once baked, carefully remove the wings from the oven and place the baking sheet on a cooling rack. Let them rest for about 5 minutes — this helps the juices redistribute and keeps the wings crisp.
• Garnish with lemon slices and fresh cilantro for a pop of color and bright flavor. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.