Name: Baked Chicken Wings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings (fresh or thawed); 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; 2 teaspoons honey; 6 garlic cloves (minced); 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; low sodium soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option); chopped green onions (for garnish); prepared Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip (optional, but recommended for dipping)

Baked chicken wings are the perfect combination of crispy, flavorful, and easy to prepare. They are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, whether you are hosting a game day gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in. The secret to these wings is a delicious marinade made with low sodium soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option), brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, and freshly ground black pepper. This balance of savory and sweet will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Why It’s My Go-To

These baked chicken wings have become a staple in my kitchen for several reasons. First and foremost, they are incredibly easy to make and require minimal prep time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant. The best part? You can enjoy them guilt-free, knowing that they are baked instead of fried. Not only do they turn out perfectly crispy in the oven, but they are also a healthier alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

The Ingredient Lineup

To create these mouthwatering baked chicken wings, gather the following ingredients:

2 pounds chicken wings – The star of the show, choose fresh or thawed wings.
1 tablespoon brown sugar plus 1 teaspoon – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
2 teaspoons honey – Enhances the glaze and gives a beautiful caramelization.
6 garlic cloves, minced – Provides a robust flavor that complements the soy sauce.
1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper plus 1 teaspoon – Adds a spicy kick that elevates the dish.
Low sodium soy sauce or tamari – The base of the marinade, ensuring a perfect umami flavor.
Chopped green onions – For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.
Prepared Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip – Optional, but highly recommended for dipping!

Toolbox for This Recipe

Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools handy:

Mixing Bowl – For combining the marinade ingredients.
Whisk – To blend the marinade smoothly.
Baking Sheet – A large sheet to spread the wings for even cooking.
Wire Rack – Optional, but it allows for air circulation, making wings extra crispy.
Meat Thermometer – To ensure your chicken wings are cooked to perfection.

Step-by-Step: Baked Chicken Wings

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the low sodium soy sauce (or tamari), brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk together until the sugar is dissolved, and all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 2: Marinate the Wings

Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss them in the marinade until they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving crispy wings.

Step 4: Arrange the Wings

Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, and place a wire rack on top if you have one. Arrange the marinated chicken wings in a single layer on the rack or directly on the baking sheet. Make sure there is space between each wing for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake the Wings

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. The wings should be golden brown and crispy when done.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the wings are cooked through, remove them from the oven. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with a side of Chipotle Aioli or the optional prepared Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip. Enjoy!

Make It Fit Your Plan

These baked chicken wings are versatile and can easily fit into various dietary preferences:

Gluten-Free – Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Low-Carb – Skip the brown sugar and honey and replace them with a low-carb sweetener.
Spicy – Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.
Sweet and Sour – Mix in a little pineapple juice for a tropical twist.

Chef’s Notes

For the crispiest wings, consider patting them dry with paper towels before marinating. This helps remove excess moisture, allowing the skin to crisp up beautifully in the oven. Additionally, remember to check the internal temperature of the wings; they should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Feel free to experiment with different marinades or spices to create your own unique flavor profiles.
These wings are perfect for meal prep; just store them in an airtight container after cooking.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooked wings in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Common Questions

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely before marinating to ensure even absorption of the flavors.

How can I make these wings extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, try broiling the wings for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!

What should I serve with these wings?

These wings pair well with a variety of sides, such as celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders for a fun finger food feast.

Can I make these wings in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Cook them in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

In Closing

Baked chicken wings are not just a meal; they are an experience. With their rich flavors and satisfying crunch, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Take the time to marinate them well, and you’ll be rewarded with wings that are bursting with flavor. Don’t forget to share your creation with friends and family—they won’t be able to resist going back for more! Enjoy these baked chicken wings with your favorite dipping sauce and make it a night to remember.