When it comes to finger food that’s synonymous with good times, chicken wings are at the top of the list. This blog post is dedicated to a classic crowd-pleaser: Quick & Easy Oven-Barbecued Chicken Wings. These wings are coated in a flavorful barbecue sauce and baked to perfection, resulting in a dish that’s ideal for parties, game day, or even a simple weeknight dinner.
While many people associate chicken wings with deep frying, we’ll show you a healthier and equally delicious way to prepare them in the oven. The secret to achieving the perfect combination of crispy skin and tender meat is all about the cooking process and the right barbecue sauce. So, if you’re ready to impress your guests or simply satisfy your wing cravings, let’s dive into this delectable recipe.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Wings:
- 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings: You can use whole wings or separate them into wingettes and drumettes.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: To help the wings crisp up.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Season your wings for maximum flavor.
For the Barbecue Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup: Provides the tomato base.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar: Offers a tangy kick.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami flavor.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a smoky twist.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: For an extra layer of flavor.
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional): If you like it spicy.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet.
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated.
- Arrange the wings on the wire rack, leaving a bit of space between each wing for even cooking.
Step 2: Bake the Wings
- Place the baking sheet with the wings in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, turning them over halfway through. The wings should be golden brown and crispy.
Step 3: Prepare the Barbecue Sauce
- While the wings are baking, you can prepare the barbecue sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it simmers and thickens slightly. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
Step 4: Coat the Wings
- When the wings are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, toss the wings with the prepared barbecue sauce until they are thoroughly coated. Reserve some sauce for dipping.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the saucy wings to a serving platter and serve with the extra barbecue sauce for dipping.
- Don’t forget to provide some celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing for a classic accompaniment.
Cook’s Notes
- To ensure crispy wings, it’s crucial to arrange them on a wire rack on the baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate around each wing.
- You can adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper in the sauce.
Variations
Honey Mustard Glazed Wings
For a sweet and tangy twist, you can prepare honey mustard glazed wings. Simply replace the barbecue sauce with a mixture of honey and Dijon mustard, adjusting the sweetness and tanginess to your liking.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions (Approx. 600 words):
Creating keto-friendly chicken wings involves using a low-sugar or sugar-free barbecue sauce, such as a homemade version with artificial sweeteners. This way, you can enjoy the flavors without the added carbs.
Quick & Easy Oven-Barbecued Chicken Wings are a fantastic addition to your menu, perfect for any occasion where finger foods are appreciated. With a balance of crispy skin and tender meat, along with a flavorful barbecue sauce, these wings will surely become a household favorite. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a satisfying snack, this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity. Say goodbye to deep frying – your new go-to method for chicken wings is the oven.
