Zesty Oven-Baked BBQ Chicken Wings Recipe

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 lb chicken wings, split at the joint
• 1 tbsp olive oil

BBQ Sauce & Zest

• ½ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• Juice of 1 lime (≈2 tbsp)
• Juice of ½ orange (≈1 tbsp)

Seasonings & Garnish

• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Bake & Finish

1. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Place a wire rack on top; the rack allows hot air to circulate, giving every side of the wing a chance to crisp.
2. Arrange the wings. Lay the seasoned wings in a single layer on the rack, making sure they don’t touch. This spacing prevents steaming and encourages a uniform golden crust.
3. Bake the first round. Roast for 20 minutes, then flip each wing using tongs. Brush both sides with about half of the prepared glaze, then return to the oven for another 10‑12 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is caramelized.
4. Final glaze and garnish. Remove the wings, brush with the remaining glaze while still hot, and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Let them rest for 5 minutes; this short pause lets the juices redistribute and the glaze set.
5. Serve. Transfer the wings to a serving platter. They’re perfect alongside brunch staples like eggs benedict, avocado toast, or a light fruit salad. Enjoy while the skin is still crisp and the zest is bright.