These crispy dry rub chicken wings are packed with bold flavors and cooked to perfection in either the oven or air fryer. With a blend of savory spices and a crunchy exterior, they make the perfect appetizer, game-day snack, or main dish.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how these wings turn out incredibly crispy without needing a deep fryer. The combination of spices adds the perfect balance of heat and smokiness, and the baking powder helps create that irresistible crunch. Whether I’m making them for a party or just craving a delicious snack, these wings always hit the spot. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be customized with different spice blends.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 lbs chicken wings, split at joints, tips removed
1 tbsp baking powder (aluminum-free)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1 tbsp olive oil
Directions
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) or preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil until they are evenly coated.
In a separate bowl, mix the baking powder, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and cumin.
Sprinkle the dry rub over the wings, tossing to coat them evenly.
For Oven: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the wings in a single layer and bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown.
For Air Fryer: Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until crispy and fully cooked.
Remove from the oven or air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes (oven) or 25 minutes (air fryer)
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories per serving: 320 kcal
Variations
Spicier Version: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Sweet & Smoky: Mix in a teaspoon of brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Herb-Infused: Add a little dried thyme or rosemary for an herby twist.
Lemon-Pepper: Swap out the cumin and chili powder for lemon zest and extra black pepper.
Buffalo Style: Toss the cooked wings in buffalo sauce after baking for a saucy finish.
Storage & Reheating
Storage: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating (Oven): Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the wings for 10-12 minutes until heated through.
Reheating (Air Fryer): Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Reheating (Microwave): Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, though they may lose crispiness.
FAQs
How do I make my wings extra crispy?
Using baking powder in the seasoning mix helps create a crispier texture. Also, patting the wings dry before seasoning removes excess moisture, leading to better crisping.
Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes, but I prefer to thaw them first for even cooking. If cooking from frozen, add a few extra minutes and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I make these wings ahead of time?
Yes! I bake or air-fry them, let them cool, and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, I reheat them in the oven or air fryer for a fresh crispiness.
What dipping sauces go well with these wings?
These wings pair well with ranch, blue cheese dressing, honey mustard, or a simple garlic aioli.
Can I use a different seasoning blend?
Absolutely! I switch up the spices based on my cravings—sometimes adding lemon pepper, Cajun seasoning, or even a barbecue rub.
Conclusion
These crispy dry rub chicken wings are easy to make, packed with bold flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether baked or air-fried, they always turn out crispy and delicious. I love experimenting with different spice blends, and they’re a guaranteed hit every time. Give them a try and enjoy the crunch.
Recipe:
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Crispy Dry Rub Chicken Wings
These crispy dry rub chicken wings are packed with bold flavors and have a perfectly crunchy exterior. Whether baked or air-fried, they make a great appetizer, game-day snack, or main dish. The secret to their crispiness? A blend of savory spices and baking powder!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
2 lbs chicken wings, split at joints, tips removed
1 tbsp baking powder (aluminum-free)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp cumin
1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) or the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat dry the wings with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Coat the wings with olive oil in a large bowl.
- Mix the dry rub ingredients (baking powder, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and cumin) in a separate bowl.
- Toss the wings with the seasoning mixture until fully coated.
- Cook in the oven:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
- Arrange the wings in a single layer and bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Cook in the air fryer:
- Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
- Rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
For extra crispiness, make sure to pat the wings dry before seasoning.
Baking powder (not baking soda) is key for that crispy texture.
Customize the flavor by adjusting the spices to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes (oven) or 25 minutes (air fryer)
- Category: Appetizer Main Course
- Method: Baking Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 320 kcal
