BBQ Wings

These BBQ Wings are the perfect addition to any gathering, whether it’s a summer barbecue, game night, or a family dinner. They are easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, making them a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. With their tangy BBQ sauce and crispy skin, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds—and maybe thirds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these flavorful wings ready for baking.
• Crispy Texture – The combination of baking powder and cornstarch ensures a perfectly crispy exterior without frying.
• Versatile Sauce Options – Feel free to customize your BBQ sauce or serve with various dips to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly – These wings are a hit with both kids and adults, making them ideal for family gatherings.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week for quick meals or snacks.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you’ll need to make these delicious BBQ Wings.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Sheet pan rack
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl – A spacious bowl allows you to easily toss ingredients together without mess.
• Baking sheet – Ideal for catching drips while baking and ensuring even heat distribution.
• Sheet pan rack – Elevates the wings for better airflow, resulting in that coveted crispy texture.

Ingredients

These BBQ Wings are super easy to make and are so delicious and tangy that everyone at the table will lick their fingers squeaky-clean. Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

For the Wings

• 2 lbs chicken wings ($6.49*)
• 2 tsp salt ($0.06)
• 2 tsp baking powder ($0.04)
• 2 tsp cornstarch ($0.02)
• 1 tsp garlic powder ($0.10)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika ($0.10)
• ½ tsp onion powder ($0.05)
• ¼ tsp black pepper (freshly cracked) ($0.02)
• ½ cup BBQ Sauce ($0.58**)

How to Make BBQ Wings

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings

Pat the chicken wings dry with a paper towel and place them in a large mixing bowl. Mix the salt and baking powder together in a small bowl. Toss the dried chicken wings in this mixture until evenly coated.

Step 2: Refrigerate for Crispiness

Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and set up a sheet pan rack on top of it. Place the wings on this rack in a single layer, then refrigerate for at least an hour or up to 8 hours.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Position an oven rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Once preheated, take out the wings from the fridge and pat them dry again to remove any moisture.

Step 4: Seasoning

In another large mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and black pepper. Toss the wings in this seasoning blend until well-coated.

Step 5: Bake at Low Temperature

Clean your sheet pan rack before placing it back over the lined baking sheet. Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the rack without overlapping them. Bake for 12 minutes, then flip each wing over and bake for another 12 minutes.

Step 6: Increase Oven Temperature

After removing the wings from the oven, raise its temperature to 450°F (230°C). Clean your sheet pan rack again as you’ll use it once more.

Step 7: Add BBQ Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, add 1/4 cup of BBQ Sauce and toss half of the baked wings in it until evenly coated. Place these sauced wings back on the clean sheet pan rack. Toss the remaining BBQ Sauce with the last batch of wings before placing them on the rack.

Step 8: Final Bake

Return both batches of BBQ Wings to your hot oven for an additional 10 to 12 minutes until they become glossy with dark char spots.

Once they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have started developing some charring, pull them from the oven. Serve hot alongside your favorite dipping sauces! Enjoy licking those fingers clean!

How to Serve BBQ Wings

Serving BBQ Wings is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. You can create a fun and interactive dining atmosphere by offering different sauces and sides for your guests.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing – A creamy and tangy dip that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of BBQ wings.
• Blue Cheese Sauce – Offers a bold flavor contrast, ideal for those who enjoy rich and savory tastes.
• Honey Mustard – Its sweet and tangy profile complements the barbecue sauce beautifully.

With Fresh Vegetables

• Celery Sticks – Crunchy and refreshing, these sticks help balance the richness of the wings.
• Carrot Sticks – Naturally sweet and crunchy, they add a vibrant color to your serving platter.
• Cucumber Slices – Light and hydrating, cucumber slices provide a cool contrast to the hot wings.

With Grains

• Cornbread – Sweet and moist, cornbread makes for a comforting side that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
• Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice with herbs adds a subtle flavor that complements the wings without overpowering them.

How to Perfect BBQ Wings

To achieve the best BBQ Wings, focus on preparation techniques and cooking methods. Here are some tips to elevate your wing game:

• Use Baking Powder – This helps to make the skin crispy while keeping the meat tender inside.
• Dry Brine Overnight – Letting the wings sit in salt overnight enhances their flavor significantly.
• Cook at Two Temperatures – Start low to cook through, then crank up the heat for crispiness and caramelization.
• Use Quality BBQ Sauce – Choose a sauce you love or make your own for a personal touch.
• Monitor Internal Temperature – Ensure your wings reach 165°F for safe consumption while remaining juicy.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Wings

Adding side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your BBQ Wings:

1. Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy salad that provides freshness and balances the richness of wings.
2. Potato Wedges – Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside; seasoned potato wedges make a hearty side.
3. Macaroni Salad – Creamy pasta salad contrasts nicely with spicy flavors, making it a crowd favorite.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds a smoky element when grilled, enhancing your BBQ theme.
5. Baked Beans – Hearty beans cooked in a sweet sauce complement the flavors of BBQ perfectly.
6. Sweet Potato Fries – Their natural sweetness provides an interesting flavor dynamic next to BBQ wings.
7. Vegetable Platter – A mix of fresh veggies offers crunch and color, perfect for dipping or snacking.
8. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter deliver warmth and comfort as an accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making BBQ Wings can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are some common mistakes that can lead to less-than-ideal results.

• Skipping the Drying Step: Not drying the wings properly before seasoning can lead to soggy skin. Always pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure crispiness.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many wings on the sheet pan can cause uneven cooking. Make sure they are in a single layer and not touching each other.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking wings in a cold oven will prevent them from achieving that perfect crispy texture. Always preheat your oven before baking.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Failing to check the internal temperature may result in undercooked wings. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F for safety.
• Rushing the Sauce Application: Applying sauce too soon can lead to burnt wings. Wait until they have cooked thoroughly before tossing them in BBQ sauce.
• Using Low-Quality BBQ Sauce: The flavor of your BBQ Wings greatly depends on the sauce. Choose a high-quality BBQ sauce for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BBQ Wings in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BBQ Wings

• Wrap wings tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating BBQ Wings

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Place wings on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat wings in a skillet over medium heat, tossing occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about making BBQ Wings.

How do I make my BBQ Wings crispy?

To achieve crispy BBQ Wings, ensure you dry them thoroughly before seasoning and bake at high temperatures, especially during the final stages.

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings! Just be sure to thaw them completely before following the recipe instructions.

What should I serve with BBQ Wings?

BBQ Wings pair well with ranch or blue cheese dip, celery sticks, and carrot sticks for a refreshing crunch!

Are these BBQ Wings spicy?

The recipe itself is not spicy but you can add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to your seasoning blend if you prefer some heat!

How do I customize my BBQ Wings?

Feel free to customize your BBQ Wings by trying different marinades or sauces like teriyaki or honey garlic for unique flavors!

Can I grill these BBQ Wings instead of baking?

Absolutely! You can grill these wings over medium heat, turning occasionally until cooked through and charred for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

These BBQ Wings are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious and versatile. You can customize them with various sauces or spices according to your taste preferences. Whether it’s for game day, family gatherings, or just a casual dinner, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!