what temperature and how long to bake chicken wings

The optimal temperature and baking time for chicken wings depend on how crispy you want them and the size of the wings. Here’s a breakdown:

For crispy wings:

• Temperature: 400°F (200°C) is a good starting point. If you want extra crispy wings crank it up to 425 degrees, but keep a watch on them so they don’t burn.
• Time: 40-50 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through (around 20-25 minutes).

For even crispier wings (with a bit of a longer cook time):

• Temperature: Start at 250°F (120°C) for 30 minutes or longer. Then, increase the temperature to 425°F (220°C) for 20-30 minutes, flipping halfway. This two-stage approach allows the fat to render more slowly before a final blast of heat to crisp the skin.

General Tips for Crispy Wings

• Dry the wings: Pat the wings VERY dry with paper towels before seasoning. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
• Season generously: Use your favorite seasonings, including salt and pepper. Baking powder can also help dry/crisp the skin
• Air circulation: Arrange wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Using a wire rack on the baking sheet allows for better air circulation around the wings
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you have too many wings, bake them in batches to ensure even cooking and crisping.
• Check for doneness: The wings are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure. The juices should also run clear.

Important Considerations:

• Wing size: Larger wings may need slightly longer cooking times.
• Oven variations: All ovens cook slightly differently, so check on your wings towards the end of the cooking time and adjust as needed.
• Sauce: If you’re saucing the wings, it’s best to do this at the very end of the cook, or after they come out and you can put them back in the oven for a few minutes when they’re sauced up
• Always use a meat thermometer! Ensure the internal temperature of the wings reaches 165°F (74°C) to be sure they are cooked through and safe to eat.