Question

How can you make BBQ chicken wings in the oven without drying them out and still getting that great charred flavor from the grill?

Answer 1

Making BBQ chicken wings in the oven that are moist and flavorful, with a charred flavor similar to grilling, can be achieved by following these steps:

1. Preparation: Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture from the wings helps them crisp up in the oven.

2. Marinate or Season: Marinate the chicken wings in your favorite BBQ sauce or seasoning. Alternatively, you can create a marinade using a combination of oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and a touch of sugar. Allow the wings to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, let them marinate in the fridge overnight.

3. Use a Rack: Place a wire rack on a baking sheet. Elevating the wings on a rack allows hot air to circulate evenly around them, promoting even cooking and preventing them from sitting in their juices, which can cause sogginess.

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to a high temperature, typically around 425-450°F (220-230°C).

5. Baking: Arrange the marinated wings on the wire rack, making sure they're not touching each other. This allows the heat to circulate freely, leading to crispier results. Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 25-35 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.

6. Broil for Char: After the wings are fully cooked and have developed a nice color, you can give them a quick broil for a minute or two to achieve a charred appearance and extra flavor. Keep a close eye on them during broiling to prevent burning.

7. Baste with Sauce: For that extra BBQ flavor, brush the wings with more BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking and let it caramelize slightly.

8. Resting Time: Allow the wings to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, keeping them moist and tender.

By using these steps, you can achieve delicious and charred BBQ chicken wings straight from the oven, without drying them out. While it may not perfectly replicate the flavor of a grill, it can come quite close, and it's a convenient alternative for times when grilling is not possible.