Making delicious BBQ wings in the oven is easy and requires just a few simple ingredients. With this method, you can enjoy juicy, saucy wings with crispy skin right in your own oven.
Introduction
BBQ chicken wings are a classic appetizer and tailgating food. While they are often fried, baking them in the oven produces wings that are just as delicious, without all the added fat and calories.
Oven-baked wings get crispy from the dry heat of the oven. Then they are tossed in a sticky, finger-licking BBQ wing sauce. The sauce caramelizes in the heat of the oven, adhering to the skin for maximum flavor.
This easy method requires only chicken wings, baking powder, oil, and your favorite BBQ wing sauce. In just over an hour, you’ll have a platter of irresistible BBQ wings to enjoy. Follow the steps below to learn how to make BBQ wings in the oven.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds chicken wings, tips removed, wings separated at the joint
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup BBQ wing sauce
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prep the Wings
- Line a large baking sheet with foil and set an oven-safe cooling rack on top. The rack allows airflow around the wings for even cooking and crisping.
- Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. Make sure they are dry so the baking powder will stick.
- Place the wings in a large bowl and sprinkle the baking powder over them. Toss to coat the wings completely. This gives the wings a crispy “fried” texture.
Step 2: Bake the Wings
- Arrange the wings on the rack in a single layer, without overcrowding.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 425°F.
- Remove pan from oven and carefully flip each wing using tongs. Return to oven.
- Bake for another 15-20 minutes until wings are browned and crispy.
Step 3: Toss the Wings in Sauce
- Transfer the crispy baked wings to the bowl.
- Add the vegetable oil and toss to coat.
- Pour in the desired amount of BBQ wing sauce. Start with 1/2 cup. You can always add more.
- Toss the wings until they are evenly coated in sauce.
Step 4: Return Wings to Oven
- Spread the sauced wings back on the rack in a single layer.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes more.
- Remove from oven. The sauce will have caramelized on the wings for finger-licking flavor.
Serving Suggestions
BBQ wings are fun to eat with your hands. Serve with:
- Celery and carrot sticks
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Additional BBQ sauce for dipping
Keep in mind oven-baked BBQ wings will not be as crispy once sauced and baked again. For maximum texture, wait to coat them in sauce until just before serving.
Leftover baked wings store well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven until warmed through. Add extra sauce as needed before serving.
FAQ
How long does it take to make BBQ wings in the oven?
It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes total cook time. First bake the wings for 45 minutes, then toss in sauce and bake 10 more minutes.
What’s the best BBQ wing sauce to use?
Any prepared BBQ wing sauce like Sweet Baby Ray’s works well. For homemade, combine barbecue sauce, honey, and hot sauce.
How do I get the skin extra crispy?
Baking powder is the secret ingredient for ultra crispy wings. Simply coat the seasoned raw wings in baking powder before baking.
Can I use an air fryer instead of the oven?
Yes, air fryer wings cook up just as crispy! Follow the same steps at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway.
How should I season the wings?
Plain or just salt and pepper is fine since they’ll be coated in sauce. Or season with garlic powder, chili powder, cayenne, etc. before baking.
Conclusion
Crispy oven-baked BBQ wings are a crowd-pleasing appetizer made easy. Toss dry wings in baking powder then bake until browned and crispy. Finish with your favorite sticky, saucy BBQ wing sauce and bake again just to adhere. Enjoy juicy wings with caramelized sauce using this simple method. Oven-baked BBQ wings are sure to be a hit at your next game day party or weeknight dinner.