Are you ready to take your chicken wing game to the next level? Forget soggy, bland wings – we're diving into the world of crispy, flavorful perfection with this incredible dry rub recipe. This isn't just another recipe; it's a journey to homemade cooking bliss, resulting in delicious dishes that will have everyone asking for more. Perfect for game day, a casual weeknight dinner, or any get-together, these wings are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 2 tablespoons paprika (smoked paprika adds a deeper flavor)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels – this is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
Make the Dry Rub:
- In a small bowl, combine all the dry rub ingredients: paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and oregano. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed.
Coat the Wings:
- Place the chicken wings in a large bowl and generously pour the dry rub over them. Use your hands to toss the wings until they are completely coated with the spice mixture. Make sure every wing is evenly covered for consistent flavor.
Bake to Perfection:
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Arrange the chicken wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this ensures even cooking and crispy wings.
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Bake for 45-50 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). For extra crispy wings, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Serve and Enjoy!:
Serve your delicious, crispy chicken wings immediately. They're fantastic on their own, but you can also serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or BBQ sauce.
Tips for the Best Dry Rub Chicken Wings:
- Don't skip the patting dry step: This is key for achieving crispy skin.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For milder wings, omit it altogether.
- For extra flavor: Marinate the wings in the dry rub for at least 30 minutes before baking, or even overnight in the refrigerator for maximum flavor penetration.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: This ensures even cooking and crispy skin.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Wings: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme to the dry rub for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Sweet and Spicy Wings: Increase the brown sugar to 2 tablespoons and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a sweeter and smokier kick.
- Garlic Parmesan Wings: Add 1 tablespoon of grated parmesan cheese and 2 cloves of minced garlic to the dry rub for a savory and cheesy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This recipe provides a healthy meal option, balancing protein and flavor. Remember that nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade chicken wings!