Easy Dry Rub Chicken Wings in Oven or Air Fryer
Wings are everyone’s favorite! Skip the sauce and try out this dry rub
When it comes to chicken wings, most people immediately think of buffalo wings or other saucy variations. But if you’re looking for a new spin on the classic dish, why not give dry rub chicken wings a try? This recipe for easy dry rub chicken wings in the oven or air fryer is sure to become a favorite in your household.
One of the great things about dry rub chicken wings is that they’re incredibly versatile. You can experiment with different spice combinations to create your own unique flavor profile. Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a more subtle seasoning, the options are endless.
Healthy Dry Rub Chicken Wings
Not only are dry rub chicken wings incredibly flavorful, but they’re also a healthier alternative to traditional saucy wings. By omitting the sauce, you can significantly reduce the calorie and fat content of the dish. This makes them a great choice for those who are watching their weight or sticking to a specific diet plan.
Baked Chicken Wings with Chipotle Dry Rub
The best way to cook dry rub chicken wings is by baking them in the oven or air fryer. This method ensures that the chicken wings are crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. The smoky flavor from the chipotle dry rub adds an extra layer of deliciousness to the wings.
The Best Dry Rubbed Smoked Chicken Wings
For those who love the smoky flavors of barbecue, you can also try smoking your dry rub chicken wings. Using a Traeger grill or smoker, you can infuse the wings with a rich, smoky flavor that will take them to a whole new level. Trust us, once you try smoked dry rub chicken wings, you’ll never want to go back to saucy wings again.
If you’re looking for a delicious and healthier alternative to saucy chicken wings, give this recipe for easy dry rub chicken wings a try. Whether you bake them in the oven or air fryer, you’re guaranteed to end up with flavorful and crispy wings that everyone will love.
Recipe Ingredients:
- Chicken wings (about 2 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Recipe Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels, then sprinkle the dry rub mixture over the wings, making sure to coat them evenly.
- Place the wings on a baking rack set inside a baking sheet. This will allow the heat to circulate around the wings and ensure that they cook evenly.
- Bake the wings for 40-45 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. If using an air fryer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cooking times.
- Remove the wings from the oven or air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Prepare:
Preparing dry rub chicken wings is a simple process that starts with gathering all the necessary ingredients. Begin by preheating your oven or air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
While the oven is preheating, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This mixture will be the dry rub for the wings.
Next, pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial to achieving crispy wings. Sprinkle the dry rub mixture over the wings, making sure to coat them evenly.
Place the wings on a baking rack set inside a baking sheet. This setup allows the heat to circulate around the wings, ensuring they cook evenly. If you’re using an air fryer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for arranging the wings.
Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. If you’re using an air fryer, adjust the cooking time according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Once the wings are cooked, remove them from the oven or air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and flavorful wings.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this easy dry rub chicken wings recipe is minimal. It takes approximately 10 minutes to gather and mix the ingredients, and another 5 minutes to pat the wings dry and apply the dry rub. The baking time is approximately 40-45 minutes in the oven or as per the instructions for the air fryer. Therefore, the total preparation time including baking is around 50-60 minutes.
Servings:
This recipe is designed to serve 4 to 6 people, depending on appetite and serving size preferences. If you’re hosting a party or a larger gathering, you can easily double or triple the recipe to accommodate more guests. With their irresistible flavor and crispy texture, these wings are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Nutrition Facts:
While the exact nutrition facts may vary slightly depending on the size of the chicken wings and the amount of dry rub used, here is a general overview of the nutritional information for this recipe:
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the recipe (approximately 4-6 wings)
- Calories: 250-350
- Total Fat: 15-25g
- Carbohydrates: 1-2g
- Protein: 25-35g
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used. It’s always a good idea to check the nutrition label of the specific products you’re using to ensure accuracy.
Tips:
- For an extra crispy texture, you can broil the wings for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of spices in the dry rub according to your taste preferences. If you like it spicier, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of spices accordingly.
- For a smokier flavor, you can use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika in the dry rub mixture.
- Don’t forget to check the internal temperature of the chicken wings with a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through. The minimum safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C).
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
A: It is recommended to use fresh or thawed chicken wings for the best results. Frozen wings may not cook evenly and could result in a less crispy texture.
Q: Can I make the dry rub in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dry rub mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container until ready to use. This can save time when you’re ready to make the wings.
Q: Can I use this dry rub on other meats?
A: Absolutely! This dry rub is versatile and can be used on other meats like chicken thighs, pork chops, or even ribs. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination.
Q: Can I make these wings on a grill?
A: Yes, you can certainly grill these dry rub chicken wings instead of baking or air frying them. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook the wings for 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally for even cooking.
Dry rub chicken wings are a delicious and healthy alternative to saucy wings that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, family gathering, or simply craving a flavorful snack, these wings are sure to impress. So skip the sauce and give this easy dry rub chicken wings recipe a try today!
