Oven Fried Chicken Wings (Extra Crispy, No Deep Frying!)
Introduction
Oven Fried Chicken Wings are the perfect combination of crispy texture and juicy flavor — without the mess of deep frying. Coated in a seasoned flour and cornstarch mixture, these wings bake to golden perfection in the oven while staying tender inside. They’re ideal for game nights, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving comfort food with less oil.
Ingredients & Quantities
2 lbs (900g) chicken wings, split and tips removed
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon baking powder (optional but helps crisp skin)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk or buttermilk
Cooking spray or 2–3 tablespoons oil for baking
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available.
2. Pat wings dry with paper towels — dry skin is key to crispiness.
3. In a large bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and baking powder.
4. In another bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.
5. Dip each wing into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the flour mixture.
6. Arrange wings in a single layer on the rack or baking tray. Lightly spray or brush with oil.
7. Bake for 35–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
8. For extra crunch, broil for the last 3–5 minutes while watching closely.
9. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Origin & Cultural Significance
Chicken wings became iconic in American cuisine, especially after Buffalo wings gained popularity in New York during the 1960s. Oven-fried versions evolved as a healthier alternative, allowing home cooks worldwide to enjoy crispy wings without deep frying. Today, wings are a universal comfort food featured at gatherings, sports events, and casual celebrations across cultures.
Description
These wings come out crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, with a flavorful seasoned crust. The cornstarch helps create a light, crunchy texture similar to fried wings — but baked for a lighter feel.
Optional Additions
Cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat
Parmesan cheese mixed into coating
Lemon zest for freshness
BBQ, buffalo, honey garlic, or sweet chili sauce for tossing after baking
Smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor
Tips for Success
Always dry the wings well before coating.
Use a wire rack to allow hot air circulation.
Don’t overcrowd the pan — space helps crispiness.
Flip halfway through baking for even browning.
Let wings rest 3–5 minutes before serving to keep juices inside.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving – based on 6 servings)
Calories: 320–360
Protein: 22g
Fat: 15–18g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Sodium: ~550mg
(Values vary depending on coating amount and sauces.)
Conclusion
Oven Fried Chicken Wings are a simple, delicious alternative to deep-fried wings. With minimal oil and easy preparation, they deliver all the crunch and flavor you want — straight from your oven.
Recommendation
Serve these wings with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or spicy mayo. Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Enjoying crispy comfort food doesn’t have to mean heavy frying. Baking reduces excess oil while preserving flavor and texture, making these wings a satisfying option that fits into a more balanced lifestyle. Small tweaks — like using whole-grain flour or adding spices instead of extra salt — can make them even more nourishing without sacrificing taste.