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Crispy Cajun Baked Chicken Wings

Crispy Cajun Baked Chicken Wings
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Crispy Cajun Baked Chicken Wings combine a perfect crunch, bold smoky Cajun spices, and juicy chicken, all baked in the oven for a healthier alternative to frying. This easy recipe yields irresistibly crispy wings with a spicy kick and a bright finish, ideal for game days, parties, or flavorful meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Wings

  • Fresh chicken wings with skin-on (about 2 pounds)

Seasoning & Coating

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar (for tossing after baking)

Optional Garnishes

  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Your Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available to allow air circulation and crispiness.
  2. Dry the Wings: Pat the chicken wings thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture; this is essential for crispy skin.
  3. Toss Wings with Baking Powder and Oil: In a large bowl, coat the wings evenly with baking powder and olive oil. The baking powder helps achieve a golden, crunchy skin without drying the meat.
  4. Apply the Cajun Seasoning: Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning blend (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper) evenly over the wings, fully coating each one.
  5. Bake and Flip: Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake for 25 minutes, then flip each wing over and bake for an additional 20 minutes until wings are crisp and cooked through.
  6. Add a Splash of Lemon or Vinegar: Immediately after baking, toss the wings lightly with lemon juice or a splash of vinegar to brighten the flavors and cut through the richness.

Notes

  • Ensure wings are dried thoroughly before coating to maximize crispiness.
  • Use a wire rack during baking to allow even air circulation around wings.
  • Baking powder is key; do not substitute with baking soda.
  • Space wings evenly on the rack to prevent steaming and sogginess.
  • Adjust cayenne and spices gradually to control heat level.
  • Pairs well with ranch, blue cheese dip, or honey mustard sauces.
  • Store leftovers in airtight containers refrigerated up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months.
  • Reheat in a 400°F (205°C) oven on a wire rack for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crispy chicken wings, Cajun chicken wings, baked wings, spicy wings, healthy wings, game day snacks

Find it online: https://mealsbymary.com/crispy-cajun-baked-chicken-wings/