Healthy Homemade Crispy Chicken Wings (No Frying, No Excess Oil!)

Fourth Of July Favs
Healthy Homemade Crispy Chicken Wings (No Frying, No Excess Oil!)

If you’ve ever struggled with soggy homemade chicken wings… same. Honestly, I had avoided making them at home for years because they never turned out quite right—until now. 

After testing different techniques, I finally found the secret to perfectly crispy, oven-baked chicken wings without the need for frying or any added oil. And let me tell you... after this, I’m basically Bobby Flay.

Why You’ll Love These Healthy Chicken Wings:

  • No frying, no oxidized oils
  • Crispy, golden skin—without deep frying
  • Simple ingredients & minimal prep
  • Perfect for backyard BBQ’s, game day, parties, or an easy weeknight dinner

The Secret? A Quick Parboil + High-Heat Bake 

The trick is to parboil the wings first—just a quick 7 minutes in boiling water. This step helps render some of the fat, dries out the skin, and sets you up for oven-crisped perfection every time. 

Whether you’re prepping for game day, a Fourth of July BBQ, or just a weeknight dinner, these wings are a total crowd-pleaser. Toss them in your favorite sugar-free sauce—Buffalo, BBQ, or something spicy—and enjoy a cleaner, homemade version of your favorite takeout wings.

Be Well Tips for the Crispiest Baked Wings:

  • Dry them really well after boiling—moisture is the enemy of crisp!
  • Use a wire rack for better airflow and even cooking.
  • Don’t skip the high heat—450°F is key for golden, crunchy skin.

Want more chicken recipes? Check out my favorites here!

  • Prep Time

    10 minutes

  • Total Time

    45

  • Servings

    4

  • Freezer Friendly

    Yes

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds chicken wings, split and tips removed
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Your favorite wing sauce - Buffalo, teriyaki, BBQ, etc. (I am using Primal Kitchen - code KELLY for 15% off)

Directions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt. Once boiling, add the wings and parboil for 7 minutes.
  2. Drain the wings and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step is key for crispiness!
  3. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
  4. Place the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet (for even crisping) or directly on a parchment-lined baking tray.
  5. Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through at the 20-minute mark.
  6. Once crispy and golden, toss the wings with your favorite sauce while they’re still hot.
  7. Serve immediately with celery sticks, ranch, or whatever sides you love.