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Crispy Dry Rub Chicken Wings

Crispy Dry Rub Chicken Wings are a flavorful, crunchy alternative to saucy wings. Coated in a savory spice blend and baked, air fried, or grilled to perfection, these wings offer bold seasoning with no mess. Perfect for game days, casual dinners, or whenever you want finger-licking deliciousness without sticky sauce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Appetizer, Snack, Main Dish
Cuisine American, Casual Dining, Game Day Food
Servings 4 (about 1 pound of chicken wings)
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Rimmed baking sheet with wire rack (for oven method)
  • Air fryer basket (for air fryer method)
  • Grill grate (for grilling method)
  • Meat thermometer
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Paper towels

Ingredients
  

Dry Rub

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness and caramelization)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Wings

  • 1 pound chicken wings (split into flats and drumettes)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Wings: Pat chicken wings thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for crispy skin.
  • Make Dry Rub: In a large bowl, combine baking powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne, brown sugar, and salt. Mix well.
  • Coat Wings: Add the wings to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the dry rub.

Choose Cooking Method:

  • Oven: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange wings in a single layer on a wire rack placed over a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
    Air Fryer: Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place wings in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 25–30 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway.
    Grill: Prepare grill for indirect heat at 375°F (190°C). Grill wings for 30–35 minutes, flipping regularly.
  • Rest & Serve: Remove wings and let rest for 5 minutes. Optionally, toss with a drizzle of olive oil or sprinkle finishing salt for enhanced texture. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use aluminum-free baking powder to avoid bitter flavors.
  • For less heat, reduce or omit cayenne pepper.
  • Omit brown sugar for a fully savory rub or substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier twist.
  • Don’t overcrowd wings during cooking; ensure airflow for best crispiness.
  • Wings are best served fresh but can be reheated in an air fryer or oven to maintain crispness.
Keyword air fryer wings recipe, crispy chicken wings dry rub, easy wing seasoning, game day appetizers, oven baked wings