Name: Irresistible Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-486816H50M20S
Total time: PT-486816H50M20S
Cuisine: Americans
Ingredients: • 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil• 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Chicken wings have long been a crowd-pleasing favorite, and the combination of salt and pepper is a classic flavor profile that never fails to satisfy. These irresistible Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings take the humble wing to new heights, delivering a perfect balance of crunch, juiciness, and bold seasoning in every bite.

Whether you’re hosting a game-day gathering, a casual family dinner, or looking for a tasty appetizer, these wings are sure to impress. Their addictive flavor and easy preparation make them a must-have recipe in any home cook’s arsenal.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓

What sets these Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings apart is the combination of a perfectly crispy exterior and a juicy, tender interior. The secret lies in the double-frying technique, which creates a delightful textural contrast that will have your guests reaching for more. Plus, the accessibility of the ingredients and the make-ahead versatility of the recipe make it a practical choice for any occasion.

Beyond the irresistible taste and texture, these wings are a nutritious option as well. The protein-packed chicken provides a satisfying source of lean protein, while the simple seasoning blend of salt and pepper offers a healthier alternative to heavily breaded or sauced wings.

🛒 What You Need to Prepare Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings ❓

• 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

The beauty of this Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of crisp chicken, coarse salt, and freshly ground black pepper creates the Asian-inspired flavor profile that has made wing recipes perennially popular.

📝 How to Make Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings Step-by-Step ❓

• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
• Step 2: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help them get extra crispy in the oven.
• Step 3: In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with the vegetable oil, sea salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
• Step 4: Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other.
• Step 5: Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
• Step 6: Serve the Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings immediately, garnished with additional salt and pepper if desired.

⏱️ Timing Overview

• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
• Total time: 50-55 minutes

Compared to traditional deep-fried chicken wings, which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings recipe saves you over 10 minutes of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.

👩🏻‍⚕️ Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 445
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fat: 31g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 1,012mg

These Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings provide approximately 68% of your daily protein requirements and 44% of your daily sodium needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.

🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Reduced-fat option: Use chicken tenders or drumsticks instead of wings, which have less skin and fat.
• Lower-carb version: Omit the oil and toss the wings in a mixture of melted butter or olive oil, salt, and pepper instead.
• Dairy-free adaptation: This recipe is already dairy-free, so no modifications are necessary.
• Added protein: Serve the wings alongside a protein-rich side dish, such as a leafy green salad or a quinoa-based dish.
• Boost vegetables: Roast some vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or broccoli, alongside the wings for a complete, balanced meal.

These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a creamy, tangy dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese.
• Pair with a fresh, crunchy coleslaw or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
• Complement the wings with a side of roasted potatoes or a hearty grain like quinoa or brown rice.
• For a game-day spread, serve the wings alongside other finger foods like mini sliders, vegetable skewers, or loaded nachos.
• Create an impressive appetizer platter by arranging the wings alongside other savory bites, like stuffed mushrooms or bacon-wrapped dates.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Make sure to arrange the wings in a single layer with space between them, or they won’t get crispy.
• Skipping the drying step: Patting the wings dry with paper towels before seasoning is crucial for achieving the perfect crispness.
• Undercooking the wings: Be sure to bake the wings for the full 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, to ensure they are cooked through and crispy.
• Overusing seasoning: While salt and pepper are the stars of this recipe, it’s important not to overdo it, as the seasoning can become overpowering.
• Forgetting to let the wings rest: Allow the wings to rest for a few minutes before serving, as this will help the seasoning adhere better.

🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe

These Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings retain their quality remarkably well:

• Refrigeration: Store the baked wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing unbaked: Arrange the seasoned, raw wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked wings to cool completely, then transfer them to a resealable bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the wings in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until they’re hot and crispy. You can also reheat them in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes.

❓ FAQs

Can I make the wings ahead of time?

Absolutely! The wings can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator, or you can freeze them either before or after baking. For unbaked wings, simply arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable bag or container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. For baked wings, allow them to cool completely before freezing.

Can I use other types of chicken besides wings?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to use chicken tenders, drumsticks, or even boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. Chicken tenders and breasts may require less time, while drumsticks may need a bit more.

Is there a way to make these wings lower in sodium?

For a lower-sodium version, you can use a salt-free seasoning blend or reduce the amount of salt in the recipe. You can also opt for low-sodium soy sauce or tamari as a dipping sauce. Additionally, serving the wings with a fresh, crunchy salad or steamed vegetables can help balance the sodium content of the dish.

What should I do if my wings don’t get crispy?

If your wings aren’t achieving the desired crispiness, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take. First, make sure to pat the wings dry thoroughly before seasoning and baking. You can also try baking the wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, which will allow more air circulation around the wings. Additionally, ensure that the wings are in a single layer and not touching each other on the baking sheet.

Can I add other seasonings to the wings?

Absolutely! While the classic salt and pepper combination is delicious, you can experiment with a variety of seasonings to customize the flavor profile. Try adding a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. You can also mix in some dried herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano, to complement the salt and pepper.

Conclusion

These Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a game-day snack, a family-friendly dinner, or a sophisticated appetizer, they’re sure to impress with their irresistible crunch and bold seasoning. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the oven. So, gather your friends and family, fire up the oven, and get ready to indulge in the ultimate in crispy, flavorful chicken wing perfection.