Baked Chicken Wings with Garlic and Paprika

Craving a snack that hits all the right notes of crispy goodness, bold flavor, and easy preparation? Look no further than this incredible recipe for Baked Chicken Wings with Garlic and Paprika. These wings come out perfectly crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and infused with the warm, smoky taste of paprika paired with the robust punch of garlic. Whether you’re whipping them up for a game day, family dinner, or casual gathering, this dish is bound to become your new go-to comfort food favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make these wings a quick kitchen win.
• Rich, Flavorful Seasoning: Garlic and paprika combo creates a perfect balance of smoky and savory taste.
• Healthier Alternative: Baking instead of frying means less oil without sacrificing crispiness.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish for family and friends.
• Customizable Spice Level: Easy to adjust seasoning to your personal heat preference.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on a handful of simple, easy-to-find ingredients that work in harmony to deliver amazing texture and flavor. Each ingredient plays a distinct role in making your baked chicken wings irresistibly tasty and visually inviting.

• Chicken Wings: The star of the dish, choose fresh or fully thawed wings for the best results.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings sharpness and depth to the seasoning.
• Paprika: Adds smoky warmth and a vibrant red color that makes these wings pop.
• Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and promotes crispy skin when baked.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential to enhance all the natural flavors.
• Optional Spices: A pinch of cayenne or chili powder for extra kick if you like!

Variations for Baked Chicken Wings with Garlic and Paprika

Feel free to make this recipe truly your own! The simple base offers plenty of room to tailor the flavors or adjust to fit dietary preferences without losing the essence of the dish.

• Spicy Twist: Add more cayenne or hot sauce for wings that bring the heat.
• Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic lift.
• Smoky Sweet: Mix in a bit of brown sugar for a subtle caramelized finish.
• Gluten-Free: Made entirely with natural spices and no breading, perfect for gluten-sensitive eaters.
• Garlic-Free Option: Use extra paprika and smoked salt to keep flavor without garlic.

How to Make Baked Chicken Wings with Garlic and Paprika

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Wings

Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.

Step 3: Make the Garlic and Paprika Seasoning

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and any optional spices. Mixing these well ensures every wing will be richly coated in flavor.

Step 4: Coat the Wings Thoroughly

Add the wings to the bowl and toss until each piece is evenly covered with the seasoning mixture. Use your hands or tongs to make sure nothing is left untouched.

Step 5: Arrange and Bake

Spread the seasoned wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between pieces to help them crisp up nicely.

Step 6: Bake and Flip

Bake for 25 minutes, then flip each wing to the other side and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let the wings rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices and flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Chicken Wings with Garlic and Paprika

• Dry the Wings Well: Ensuring wings are dry before seasoning leads to crispier skin when baked.
• Use Baking Rack: Position wings on a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow hot air circulation and extra crunch.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give wings room on the tray to prevent steaming and soggy spots.
• Adjust Seasonings After Baking: Taste and sprinkle a little extra paprika or salt if needed before serving.
• Rest Before Serving: Resting wings helps the juices redistribute for moist, tender bites.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Wings with Garlic and Paprika

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the rich spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve with crunchy celery sticks and creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the savory wings. A side of roasted vegetables or crispy fries rounds out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange wings on a wooden board with dipping sauces in small bowls for a casual, shareable platter. Or stack them neatly on a large plate and garnish with edible flowers for a stylish touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor but may lose some crispiness.

Freezing

Freeze wings in a single layer on a baking tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat wings in a hot oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore crunch and warmth, avoiding the microwave to keep texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use frozen wings for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and pat dry the wings before seasoning and baking for the best crispy texture.

How do I make these wings spicier?

Add extra cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the seasoning mix to boost the heat level.

Is it necessary to use olive oil?

Olive oil helps the seasoning stick and promotes crispiness, but you can substitute with vegetable or avocado oil if preferred.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use a larger baking sheet and avoid crowding to maintain even cooking.

How can I make the wings extra crispy?

Using a wire rack on your baking tray and drying the wings well before seasoning will give extra crunch.

Final Thoughts

Enjoying homemade Baked Chicken Wings with Garlic and Paprika is a simple pleasure anyone can master in their kitchen. This recipe’s delightful balance of flavors, crispy texture, and easy preparation make it a standout dish to share with loved ones. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor every bite of these delicious wings!

Related Posts

• Warm Crack Chicken Dip
• Garlic Butter Flatbread
• Beef Tenderloin Crostini

Print