Garlic Herb Chicken Wing Bake
Highlighted under: Quick Fix Eats
I've always been a fan of chicken wings, but it wasn't until I started experimenting with herbs and garlic that I found my ultimate recipe. This Garlic Herb Chicken Wing Bake comes together effortlessly and results in wings that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. With a blend of fresh herbs and garlic, every bite bursts with flavor. It's a dish that brings my family together and is perfect for casual get-togethers or game nights. Prepare to impress your guests with this delicious recipe!
When I first tried making chicken wings at home, I knew I had to find a way to enhance their flavor without deep frying. That's when I discovered the power of baking them with a rich combination of garlic and fresh herbs. The aroma that fills the kitchen is nothing short of addictive!
Over time, I've perfected this technique, ensuring that the wings remain juicy while achieving that crispy skin we all love. The trick is to season them well and use a high heat. I promise, this recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, golden exterior with tender meat inside
- Delicious garlic and herb flavor that tantalizes the taste buds
- Great for parties or a cozy family dinner
The Importance of Proper Marinade
Marinating chicken wings is crucial for infusing them with flavor. The mixture of garlic, rosemary, thyme, and olive oil not only tenderizes the meat but also creates a rich, aromatic taste. Allow the wings to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if time permits, extending this to 2 hours can enhance the flavor exponentially. To ensure every wing is adequately coated, use your hands to massage the marinade into the skin, ensuring you get every nook and cranny.
For those who prefer a bolder taste, consider adding a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade. This addition will introduce a gentle heat that complements the herbs beautifully. Additionally, if fresh herbs aren’t available, you can substitute with dried herbs, though I recommend using only one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Baking Tips for Extra Crispiness
To achieve that perfect crispy skin, it's essential to arrange the wings in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of baking, which prevents that desirable crunch. If you have a wire rack, consider placing it on top of the baking sheet; this allows air to circulate around the wings as they bake, promoting even crispiness. Baking at the higher temperature of 425°F (220°C) also helps to render the fat from the wings quickly, resulting in a golden brown exterior.
Keep an eye on the wings as they bake. After the first 30 minutes, you can start checking for doneness. The wings should be a deep golden brown, and the skin should appear crispy. If they need a little more time but are getting too dark, you can tent them with aluminum foil to prevent burning while they finish baking.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to get started on your tasty wings:
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Garlic Herb Chicken Wings:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, mix the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Wings
Place the chicken wings in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss well to ensure the wings are evenly coated.
Bake the Wings
Arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy
Once done, remove the wings from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Serve these wings with your favorite dipping sauces!
Pro Tips
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the wings for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
Once the wings are perfectly baked, consider serving them with a side of homemade garlic aioli or a tangy blue cheese dip. These sauces complement the herbaceous flavors well and add a creamy contrast to the crispy wings. For a fresh crunch, a simple celery and carrot stick garnish can elevate the presentation and freshness of your meal.
If serving for game night or a party, you might want to create a platter with a variety of dips. Try adding a spicy buffalo sauce for those who enjoy a kick or a mellow ranch dressing for a classic pairing. It's a great way to cater to different taste preferences and make the meal even more enjoyable.
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
If you want to prep ahead, marinate the chicken wings the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to deepen, making each bite even more delicious. For optimal results, ensure they are tightly sealed in an airtight container to avoid any cross-contamination with other foods in the fridge.
Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, I recommend using an oven or air fryer rather than a microwave to maintain the crispiness. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and reheat the wings for about 10-15 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.
→ How do I store leftover wings?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I change the herbs used in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite herbs or even add a little heat with some chili flakes.
→ What should I serve with these wings?
They pair wonderfully with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your choice of dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese.
Garlic Herb Chicken Wing Bake
I've always been a fan of chicken wings, but it wasn't until I started experimenting with herbs and garlic that I found my ultimate recipe. This Garlic Herb Chicken Wing Bake comes together effortlessly and results in wings that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. With a blend of fresh herbs and garlic, every bite bursts with flavor. It's a dish that brings my family together and is perfect for casual get-togethers or game nights. Prepare to impress your guests with this delicious recipe!
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a bowl, mix the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Place the chicken wings in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Toss well to ensure the wings are evenly coated.
Arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Once done, remove the wings from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the wings for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 30g