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Crispy baked chicken wings evenly coated in a flavorful red spice dry rub.

Dry Rub Chicken Wings – Don’t Lose This! Perfect Recipe


  • Author: Eleanor
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Packed with bold, savory spices and baked to crispy perfection, these Dry Rub Chicken Wings are an ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer. A balanced rub of paprika, garlic, onion powder, brown sugar, and a hint of cayenne coats each wing, delivering big flavor without needing messy sauces.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Wings:

  • 4 lbs chicken wings (split into flats and drumettes)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Dry Rub Mixture:

  • 2 tbsp paprika (sweet or smoked)

  • 1 tbsp garlic powder

  • 1 tbsp onion powder

  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)

  • 1 tbsp dried oregano

  • 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper

  • 1 tbsp salt (kosher or sea salt)

  • 2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to desired heat level)

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 1 tsp ground cumin

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 tbsp dry mustard

  • 1 tsp smoked salt

  • Zest of 1 lemon or lime


Instructions

  1. Prep Chicken: Pat the chicken wings thoroughly dry with paper towels. Place them in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil, tossing until all pieces are evenly coated.

  2. Mix Dry Rub: In a small bowl, whisk together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, dried oregano, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, chili powder, and cumin.

  3. Apply Rub: Sprinkle the dry rub over the oiled chicken wings. Use your hands to toss and massage the rub onto every wing until thoroughly and evenly coated.

  4. Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 to 60 minutes (or up to overnight) to allow the spices to penetrate the meat.

  5. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack inside the sheet for maximum crispiness.

  6. Bake: Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet/rack, making sure they do not overlap. Bake for 35–40 minutes (flipping halfway through) until the skin is golden brown, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  7. Rest & Serve: Let the wings rest for 3–5 minutes before serving hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or honey mustard.

Notes

  • Ultra-Crispy Hack: Baking the wings on an oven-safe wire rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet allows heat to circulate underneath, resulting in an all-around crispy texture.

  • Grilling Option: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (approx. 400°F). Grill wings for 25–30 minutes, turning frequently to prevent brown sugar from scorching.

  • Air Fryer Method: Cook in a single layer at 400°F (200°C) for 20–22 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

  • Spice Level: Omit or reduce cayenne pepper for mild wings, or add extra cayenne/chili flakes for higher heat.

  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

  • Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven or toaster oven for 15 minutes to preserve crispness.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer / Snack
  • Method: Baking / Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 3–4 wings)
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 1.5 g
  • Sodium: 780 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12.5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Fiber: 0.8 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg

Keywords: dry rub chicken wings, crispy baked wings, game day wings, spice rubbed chicken wings, easy baked wings