Crispy Old Bay Chicken Wings Recipe: Perfectly Seasoned and Baked to Perfection

When you think of chicken wings, you probably imagine those hot, crispy bites perfect for game days or casual gatherings. But what if I told you there’s a wing recipe that takes things to a whole new level of flavor and crunch? This Old Bay Chicken Wings recipe delivers just that! With the iconic taste of Old Bay seasoning and the perfect crispy texture, these wings are sure to become your new go-to.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I discovered this amazing recipe over at Insanely Good Recipes, and I just had to share it with you all. These wings are not only easy to make but also incredibly addictive. Whether you're hosting a party or just craving something special, this dish will hit the spot every single time.

Why Old Bay Chicken Wings are So Special

Old Bay seasoning is a spice blend originally created for seafood, but its versatility knows no bounds! The blend of spices, including celery salt, paprika, and black pepper, gives these wings a robust flavor that’s perfectly balanced. And thanks to the baking powder, the wings come out of the oven incredibly crispy without the need for frying. It’s the best of both worlds: flavorful and crispy, yet surprisingly simple to make at home.

Now, let’s talk about the key to crispy wings—patting the chicken dry. This one step makes all the difference, ensuring that the wings get that delicious crunch you're after. Add in the Old Bay seasoning, and you’ve got a winning combination!

A Bit of History: Old Bay’s Flavorful Journey

Old Bay seasoning has been a staple in American kitchens since the 1940s, originally created in Maryland for seasoning crabs. Its unique blend of herbs and spices quickly made it a beloved seasoning beyond seafood. These Old Bay Chicken Wings take advantage of that zesty flavor to create a mouthwatering, savory dish that’s perfect for chicken. Whether you’re a fan of its traditional use or just discovering it, Old Bay offers an exciting twist on classic chicken wings.

How to Make Old Bay Chicken Wings

Here’s how you can recreate this easy, crispy, and delicious Old Bay Chicken Wings recipe at home.

Ingredients:

• 4 pounds whole chicken wings (not split)
• 3 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
• 1 ½ tablespoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 475°F. Line a large-rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray the rack generously with cooking spray. The rack allows for air to circulate around the wings, ensuring they become crispy on all sides.
2. Dry the wings with paper towels—this is crucial for achieving crispy skin. If the wings aren’t dry, they’ll steam instead of crisp up in the oven. Place them in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag.
3. Season the wings: In a small bowl, mix together the Old Bay seasoning, baking powder, and salt. Toss the wings in this mixture until they’re evenly coated. The baking powder will help create that extra crunch without adding any flavor.
4. Arrange and bake: Lay the wings out in a single layer on the prepared wire rack. Bake for 40-50 minutes, flipping them over halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. For even crispier wings, you can broil them for an additional 4-6 minutes, but keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn.
5. Serve and enjoy: Once baked, let the wings cool for about 5 minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese. Trust me, these wings are so good, you might not even need the sauce!

Pro Tips:

• Add extra spice: For those who like an extra kick, mix a bit of cayenne pepper into the seasoning blend before tossing the wings.
• Dipping sauces: Serve with a side of ranch, blue cheese, or even a honey mustard dip for added flavor contrast.
• Side pairing: These wings are excellent with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or even a crunchy coleslaw.

Variations:

• Air Fryer Option: If you prefer using an air fryer, cook the wings at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The result will still be crispy and flavorful.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free, and you have a quick, gluten-free snack perfect for any gathering.

Final Thoughts:

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy, flavorful chicken wing. With the punchy flavor of Old Bay seasoning and the foolproof method of baking instead of frying, this Old Bay Chicken Wings recipe is both delicious and easy to make at home. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just yourself, these wings will disappear in no time!

Did you try this recipe? Let me know how it turned out! Be sure to leave a comment below and share this recipe with your friends. And don’t forget to follow me for more mouthwatering recipes like this one!