Crispy Chicken Wings with Aioli

Name: Crispy Chicken Wings with Aioli
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Globetrotter Food Guide

I love making crispy chicken wings at home, especially when paired with a homemade aioli that elevates the dish to new heights. The combination of perfectly seasoned wings with a tangy, creamy dip is simply unbeatable. I always make sure to marinate the wings beforehand to enhance the flavors, and the result is consistently delicious. The crunch and full-bodied taste are ideal for game nights or casual gatherings, making them a favorite among family and friends.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-20T13:54:28.351Z

When I first tried making chicken wings, I was on a quest for that perfect crispy texture. After several experiments with different techniques, I discovered that air frying resulted in the crispiest wings without all the oil. Coating the wings in a mixture of spices and allowing them to marinate overnight really makes a difference in flavor. The best part is dipping them into my homemade garlic aioli, which adds a creamy texture and balances out the spice perfectly.

I love serving these wings at gatherings because everyone enjoys them, and they can be made in larger batches. One helpful tip is to bake them on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around the wings and achieves an even crispier finish. Trust me; your guests won't be able to get enough of these delightful bites!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy texture paired with juicy meat
Homemade aioli that's bursting with flavor
Perfect for parties or a cozy night in

      

Enhancing Flavor with Marinades

Marinating the chicken wings is a crucial step to achieving maximum flavor. When you combine the baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, you're not just adding seasonings; you're building a flavor profile that permeates the meat. A minimum marination time of 30 minutes is recommended, but for an even deeper flavor, consider letting the wings sit overnight in the refrigerator. The longer they marinate, the more intense the flavors will be.

Using baking powder is an innovative technique that helps to create that desired crispy texture. It alters the pH level of the chicken skin, breaking down proteins and helping to create a more browned and crunchy crust during baking. Make sure to evenly coat all the wings, as uneven coating can lead to inconsistent texture.

Perfecting Your Aioli

Aioli can be personalized according to your taste preferences. While this recipe uses mayonnaise as its base for ease and consistency, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist or avocado for a creamy, healthier version. Just keep in mind that these substitutions can alter the texture and flavor profile, so adjust the garlic and lemon juice accordingly to balance the taste.

To ensure the aioli is creamy and smooth, make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly. If you find that it’s too thick, a splash of water or extra lemon juice can help achieve your desired consistency. Always taste and tweak the seasoning to add more brightness or kick, depending on your palate.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for crispy chicken wings and the creamy aioli:

For the Chicken Wings

2 pounds chicken wings
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Aioli

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your wings and aioli:

Prepare the Chicken Wings

In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until the wings are well coated. For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.

Cook the Wings

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and arrange the marinated wings in a single layer on the rack. Bake for 40 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Make the Aioli

In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve

Once the wings are cooked, serve them hot with the aioli on the side for dipping. Enjoy!

These steps will guide you to tasty wings that everyone will rave about!

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, let the wings sit uncovered in the refrigerator for an hour before cooking to dry them out.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you notice your wings aren't as crispy as you hoped, ensure that they are completely dry before applying the baking powder mixture. Moisture can prevent that perfect crunch. You can also bake them longer, keeping an eye out for golden brown edges as an indicator of doneness. If using a convection oven, you may need to reduce the baking time slightly since the circulating air can expedite the cooking process.

In case your wings seem to burn before they become crispy, try reducing the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and extend the baking time. This allows the wings to cook thoroughly without charring too quickly, ensuring you reach that coveted crunch without compromising the meat's juiciness.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover chicken wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method allows the wings to regain some of their original texture rather than steaming them in the microwave, which can lead to sogginess.

For longer storage, consider freezing the wings. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or vacuum-sealed bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen wings?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the aioli?

You can use Greek yogurt for a healthier option.

→ Can I make these wings ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the wings up to 24 hours in advance and bake them just before serving.

→ What should I serve with the chicken wings?

They pair perfectly with celery sticks, carrots, and additional dipping sauces.