Butter Baked Chicken Wings: A Flavorful and Crispy Delight
Chicken wings are always a crowd-pleaser, whether for a game day snack, a casual dinner, or a party appetizer. Butter Baked Chicken Wings take this beloved dish to the next level by combining rich, savory flavors with a perfectly crispy texture. This recipe is simple yet delicious, using classic ingredients like onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika, all enhanced with the creamy goodness of butter.
Unlike deep-fried wings, this butter-baked method provides a healthier option while still delivering the same crispy results you crave. The combination of butter and seasoning ensures the wings stay juicy while developing a golden, crispy skin that’s irresistible. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for anyone looking to impress their family and friends.
Ingredients for Butter Baked Chicken Wings
For the Wings:
- 12 medium chicken wings (with tips on or off, depending on your preference)
- 3 tablespoons onion powder
- 3 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons paprika (feel free to add more if you like)
- 1/4 cup butter, cut into cubes
- Olive oil spray (for greasing the baking dish)
How to Make Butter Baked Chicken Wings
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Begin by washing the chicken wings thoroughly under cold water. After washing, use a paper towel to pat them dry. This step is important because it helps the seasoning stick to the wings and ensures they bake up crispy, rather than steaming in their own moisture.
Step 2: Season the Wings
- Sprinkle the Wings with Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the wings, ensuring each wing is well-coated with the flavorful spices. If you prefer a stronger flavor, feel free to add more paprika or garlic powder to suit your taste.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Grease the Baking Dish: Spray a baking dish with olive oil to prevent the chicken wings from sticking. This also helps with the overall crisping process.
Step 4: Arrange the Wings in the Dish
- Place the Wings in the Dish: Lay the seasoned chicken wings flat in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they’re spread out evenly, without overlapping, to ensure they cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
Step 5: Add the Butter
- Top with Butter: Cut the butter into small cubes and place them on top of the chicken wings. The butter will melt during baking, infusing the wings with a rich, savory flavor and contributing to their crispy texture.
Step 6: Bake the Wings
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake the wings for 35-40 minutes. This initial step allows the wings to cook through and become tender while staying juicy.
Step 7: Baste the Wings
- Baste with Pan Juices: After the wings have baked for 35-40 minutes, remove the foil and baste the wings with the pan juices. Use a spoon to drizzle the melted butter and flavorful juices back over the wings. This will help further enhance the flavor and moisture of the wings.
Step 8: Crisp the Wings
- Increase the Temperature: Turn the oven temperature up to 500°F (260°C) and bake the wings for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. The high heat will give the wings a deliciously crispy skin while keeping the inside tender.
Tips for Perfect Butter Baked Chicken Wings
- Dry the Wings Well: For the crispiest wings, be sure to dry them thoroughly before seasoning. Excess moisture on the wings can prevent them from becoming crispy and cause them to steam rather than bake.
- Use High-Quality Butter: The butter is a key ingredient in this recipe, so using high-quality, unsalted butter will give your wings the best flavor. You can also experiment with different flavored butters, such as garlic or herb butter, for a unique twist.
- Add Extra Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with the seasoning. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, or toss in some dried herbs like thyme or oregano for extra flavor. You can also substitute smoked paprika for a more intense, smoky flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Foil: The foil cover helps the wings cook evenly and retain moisture. Once you remove it, the skin will become golden and crispy. Be sure to bake the wings uncovered at the end to achieve that crispy texture.
- Baste for Extra Flavor: Basting the wings during baking is essential for keeping them juicy and enhancing the flavor. If you prefer, you can baste the wings halfway through the cooking process, as well as after removing the foil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings. However, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Bake the wings covered for about 45-50 minutes before increasing the temperature for crisping. Be sure to fully thaw the wings before cooking for best results.
Can I make these wings spicier?
Absolutely! If you enjoy a little heat, add some cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or drizzle some hot sauce over the wings before baking. You can also use a spicy paprika for an extra kick.
Can I use chicken drumsticks instead of wings?
Yes, you can substitute chicken drumsticks for wings. Drumsticks will require a longer cooking time, so bake them for 45-50 minutes at 350°F before increasing the temperature to crisp the skin. The butter and seasoning method will work just as well.
Can I make these wings in advance?
While chicken wings are best served fresh, you can prep them ahead of time by seasoning and refrigerating them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the steps as usual, adding a few extra minutes to the initial baking time if the wings are cold.
How do I store leftover butter baked chicken wings?
Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the skin crisps back up.
Can I use a different type of fat instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute butter with olive oil or vegetable oil. However, butter provides a rich flavor that enhances the wings’ texture and taste, so we recommend using butter for the best results.
Butter Baked Chicken Wings are the perfect combination of crispy, flavorful, and easy-to-make. The seasoning blend, along with the rich butter, ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a family dinner, these wings are sure to be a hit. Follow this simple recipe and enjoy juicy, crispy wings that everyone will love!