Garlic Herb Chicken Wing Bake
Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes
I absolutely love making Garlic Herb Chicken Wing Bake because it turns a simple chicken dinner into something spectacular! The aromatic blend of garlic and fresh herbs fills my kitchen with a mouthwatering scent that has everyone asking for seconds. Not only is it easy to prepare, but the recipe allows the flavors to develop beautifully during baking, resulting in tender, juicy wings that are simply irresistible. If you want a flavorful dish that’s sure to impress, this is the one to try!
When I first experimented with baking chicken wings, I knew that I wanted to incorporate bold flavors that would make them truly stand out. That’s when I decided to combine garlic with fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, creating a wonderful balance that elevates the dish. The outcome was absolutely delightful, and now it's a favorite among family and friends.
To ensure that each wing is perfectly seasoned, I recommend marinating them for at least 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful bite. Trust me, the savory aroma and crispy skin are worth the wait!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy, flavorful skin with a burst of garlic goodness
- Healthy and easy meal option that's perfect for weeknights
- Can be served with a variety of dips and sides
The Importance of Marinating
Marinating the chicken wings is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. The garlic and herbs in the marinade penetrate the meat, infusing it with flavor and moisture. I like to marinate the wings for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, letting them sit in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight will elevate the taste even further. Just be sure to cover the bowl tightly to prevent any contamination.
Using olive oil in the marinade not only helps to carry the flavor of the garlic and herbs into the wings, but it also improves the crispiness of the skin during baking. The oil creates a nice barrier that promotes even browning, giving you that delightful golden color when they come out of the oven.
Baking Techniques for Perfect Wings
To achieve crispy chicken wings, it’s essential to space them out evenly on the baking sheet. Overcrowding the wings can cause steaming instead of baking, preventing that desirable crispy texture. I recommend using a large baking sheet or even two if necessary, ensuring that each wing has space around it to allow hot air to circulate fully.
Keep an eye on your wings as they bake, especially towards the end of the cooking time. You want them to be golden brown with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you find they are browning too quickly, you can cover them lightly with aluminum foil to prevent burning while they finish cooking.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Garlic Herb Chicken Wing Bake
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready for a smooth cooking experience!
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Marinate the Wings
Add the chicken wings to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange Wings on Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the marinated wings in a single layer on the sheet.
Bake the Wings
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the wings are golden and crispy.
Serve
Remove the wings from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve with lemon wedges.
Enjoy your delicious Garlic Herb Chicken Wings with your favorite dipping sauces!
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftover Garlic Herb Chicken Wings, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked wings in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. This method keeps the wings from sticking together, making it easy to reheat just what you need.
To reheat the wings, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. For an extra touch, you can broil them for the last couple of minutes to enhance crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
These Garlic Herb Chicken Wings are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. While lemon wedges add a bright acidity that complements the savory flavors, you can also consider serving them with a variety of dips. A tangy yogurt-based sauce or a spicy buffalo sauce can enhance the flavor profile further, appealing to different taste preferences.
For a complete meal, pair the wings with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. A light coleslaw can provide crunch and contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the wings wonderfully. I often serve them at gatherings and find that they make a great finger food, perfect for easy snacking.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating for best results.
→ How can I make these wings spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to the marinade.
→ Can I grill these wings instead of baking?
Absolutely! Just grill them over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, turning frequently.
→ What sides pair well with these wings?
They go great with coleslaw, potato salad, or a fresh garden salad.
Garlic Herb Chicken Wing Bake
I absolutely love making Garlic Herb Chicken Wing Bake because it turns a simple chicken dinner into something spectacular! The aromatic blend of garlic and fresh herbs fills my kitchen with a mouthwatering scent that has everyone asking for seconds. Not only is it easy to prepare, but the recipe allows the flavors to develop beautifully during baking, resulting in tender, juicy wings that are simply irresistible. If you want a flavorful dish that’s sure to impress, this is the one to try!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Garlic Herb Chicken Wing Bake
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Add the chicken wings to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the marinated wings in a single layer on the sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the wings are golden and crispy.
Remove the wings from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve with lemon wedges.
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 32g