Go Back
Plate of crispy garlic butter chicken wings garnished with herbs and pine nuts, served with dipping sauce.

Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Wings:

  • 2 pounds chicken wings drumettes and flats, skin-on
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder not baking soda, This is the secret to crispy wings without frying—don’t skip it!
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika optional but recommended for depth of flavor

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3-4 garlic cloves finely minced
  • Fresh garlic brings bold aromatic flavor—pre-minced will work in a pinch, but fresh is best.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps carry the flavor and adds a nice finish to the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley optional, For a pop of freshness and color.
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes optional, Add this if you like a little kick with your wings.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preparing the Wings for Maximum Crispiness

  • Dry the wings thoroughly: Use paper towels to pat the wings completely dry. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so this step is key to getting that golden, crunchy skin.
  • Even coating with baking powder and seasoning: Toss the wings evenly in baking powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. This not only adds flavor but also helps to dry out the skin, enhancing the crisp factor.

Step 2: Baking the Wings to Crispy Perfection

  • Use a wire rack on a baking sheet: Placing wings on a rack allows hot air to circulate all around, which helps crisp the skin evenly without the need for frying.
  • High heat is your friend: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway. The high temperature ensures the skin gets crunchy while keeping the meat juicy.
  • Check for doneness: Wings should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.

Step 3: Making the Garlic Butter Sauce

  • Cook the garlic gently: Melt butter in a pan and sauté minced garlic just until fragrant—about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic turns bitter.
  • Enhance with extras: Add olive oil, a pinch of salt, and optional herbs or red pepper flakes to round out the sauce and give it a fresh, vibrant finish.

Step 4: Tossing and Serving

  • Coat while hot: Immediately toss the hot wings in the garlic butter sauce so every piece gets evenly coated with that delicious glaze.
  • Serve with your favorite sides: These wings are fantastic with crisp celery sticks, creamy ranch dressing, or a simple green salad to balance the richness.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

 
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 26g