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Crispy Dry-Rub Chicken Wings

This recipe features chicken wings seasoned with a bold dry spice rub, then baked or fried until crispy and golden. The wings develop a crunchy exterior with a smoky, seasoned flavor, highlighting the importance of proper drying and seasoning for maximum crunch and taste.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds chicken wings preferably split into drumettes and flats
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for coating wings
  • 2 teaspoons paprika smoked or sweet
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust for heat preference
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Equipment

  • Baking sheet or fryer
  • Mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. This step ensures the skin will crisp up instead of steaming, so dry thoroughly until no moisture remains.
  2. Combine the dry spices—paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt—in a small bowl. Mix well to create an even seasoning blend.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the dried wings with olive oil until evenly coated. This helps the spices adhere and promotes browning during cooking.
  4. Sprinkle the spice mix generously over the oily wings, then toss again so each piece gets an even coating of seasoning and rubs. Press the spices into the skin gently for better adherence.
  5. Arrange the seasoned wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack for crispy results. Ensure they are in a single layer with space between each piece.
  6. Bake the wings in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30–35 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Optionally, flip them halfway through for even crispiness.
  7. Once cooked, remove the wings from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. The external crunch will set further as they cool slightly.
  8. Serve the wings hot with your favorite dipping sauces or simply enjoy their smoky, crispy exterior with a tender, well-seasoned interior.