Dry Rub Baked Chicken Wings

This recipe transforms simple chicken wings into a crispy, smoky, and deeply flavorful dish that requires no sauce. The wings get coated in a spice-packed dry rub that blends smoky paprika, garlic, onion, chili, and a touch of sweetness. As they bake in the oven, the skin turns beautifully golden and crunchy while the meat stays tender and juicy inside.

Perfect for gatherings, parties, or weeknight dinners, these wings strike the right balance between convenience and flavor. They taste amazing fresh out of the oven but also pair well with dips like ranch or blue cheese. The dry rub locks in bold flavors, making every bite delicious without needing heavy coatings or deep frying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dry rub baked chicken wings recipe highlights smoky flavors with a crisp finish.

Crispy texture: Wings bake until the skin turns crunchy and golden.

Bold seasoning: A mix of paprika, garlic, onion, and chili adds rich flavor.

Juicy meat: Inside stays tender while the outside crisps perfectly.

Simple method: Easy prep with no frying required.

Customizable flavors: Adjust heat, sweetness, or smokiness as you like.

Perfect for gatherings: A guaranteed hit for family meals, game nights, or casual parties.

For a fun twist, try mixing a little brown sugar into the dry rub for a caramelized edge, or add crushed chili flakes if you want extra heat. A sprinkle of smoked paprika brings out a deeper BBQ-style flavor. You could also toss the wings in finely chopped fresh herbs after baking for a fresh and aromatic finish.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken Wings:

• 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Dry Rub:

• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon or lime wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Wings

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the chicken wings dry, which helps the skin crisp up in the oven. Place wings into a large mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil, tossing until they are lightly coated.

2. Mix the Dry Rub

In a small bowl, stir together smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, brown sugar, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the blend is evenly combined and fragrant.

3. Season the Wings

Sprinkle the dry rub mixture over the chicken wings, tossing thoroughly to make sure every piece is fully coated with the seasoning blend. Spread wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one so they crisp evenly.

4. Bake Until Crispy

Place the tray in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through for even cooking. The skin should turn golden and crunchy while the inside stays juicy and tender.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the wings to a serving platter once done. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and brightness, and serve with lemon or lime wedges on the side for an optional zesty touch.

Tips & Variations

• Extra Crispy: Place wings on a wire rack above the baking sheet for better airflow.
• Sweeter Twist: Add more brown sugar to the dry rub for a caramelized, sweet finish.
• Spicy Upgrade: Increase the cayenne or add chili flakes for more heat.
• Flavor Change: Swap in Cajun seasoning, curry powder, or BBQ seasoning for a new variation.

Serving Suggestions

These wings shine as a snack on their own but taste even better with sides. Serve them alongside celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dip for a classic pairing. They also go well with potato wedges, fries, or garlic bread. For a heartier meal, add cornbread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh coleslaw. When serving at a party, combine them with nachos, sliders, or a simple salad.

Final Thoughts

Dry rub baked chicken wings are a foolproof way to enjoy crispy, flavorful wings without the mess of frying or the heaviness of sauces. With a smoky spice blend and juicy texture, they work as a versatile dish for nearly any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer, a snack, or the main dish, these wings always deliver on taste, crunch, and satisfaction.