Are you craving finger-licking good chicken wings but tired of the same old greasy, saucy versions? Then get ready to elevate your wing game with this ultimate guide to creating unbelievably flavorful dry rub chicken wings. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a game-day feast, or a casual get-together with friends. It’s a simple yet impressive recipe that will quickly become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Prepare for the best chicken wings you've ever tasted!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats (tips discarded)
- 2 tbsp paprika (smoked paprika adds a deeper flavor)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
Step 2: Make the Dry Rub
In a medium bowl, combine all the dry rub ingredients: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, chili powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, sea salt, oregano, and thyme. Mix thoroughly until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Wings
Add the chicken wings to the bowl with the dry rub and toss to coat them evenly. Make sure each wing is generously covered with the spice mixture. You can use your hands or tongs for this step.
Step 4: Bake or Air Fry the Wings
Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 45-50 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the wings are crispy and cooked through.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken wings from the oven or air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful wings. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, easy, and healthy meal!
Tips for Perfect Dry Rub Chicken Wings:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, leading to steaming instead of crisping.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness. For milder wings, omit it altogether.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better the flavor of your chicken wings.
- Let the rub sit: For even more intense flavor, marinate the wings in the dry rub for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Wings: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary to the dry rub.
- Spicy BBQ Wings: After baking or air frying, toss the wings in your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Sweet and Spicy Wings: Add 2 tablespoons of honey to the dry rub for a sweet and spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per wing, approximate):
This will vary based on wing size and specific ingredients used. For a more accurate calculation, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients and measurements. However, a general estimate would be approximately 100-150 calories, 8-12g fat, and 10-15g protein per wing.
This recipe provides a great base for quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and sauces to create your own unique flavor combinations. Enjoy!