These Crispy Baked Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings require just four simple ingredients and come together in about 30 minutes in the oven or air fryer. Seasoned with salt and freshly ground black pepper, they’re baked until golden and crisp. Serve with a salad or roasted potatoes for a quick, satisfying meal.
This salt-and-pepper chicken wing recipe is simple and crowd-pleasing. Pair with a fresh salad and roasted potatoes for a complete, balanced meal the whole family will enjoy.
The combination of salt and pepper highlights the natural flavor of the chicken and adds just enough spice to make these wings addictive without overwhelming them.
One of the most important steps to get irresistibly crispy skin is removing excess moisture from the wings before cooking. Read on for tips to help you achieve the crunchiest results.
Why you’ll love this chicken wings recipe
Crispy texture – Baking or air-frying wings creates a satisfyingly crisp exterior. The simple salt-and-pepper seasoning enhances the chicken, producing a golden, flavorful crust.
Easy to make – With only a few steps—season, arrange, and cook—this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Use an oven or air fryer depending on what you have.
Versatile – Serve these wings as an appetizer with dipping sauces or as a main with a large salad and roasted vegetables. They pair well with ranch, blue cheese, buffalo sauce, or sriracha mayo, and they adapt easily to different sides.
Simple yet flavorful – This recipe relies on minimal ingredients and no breading, showcasing the classic salt-and-pepper profile. It’s a great option for picky eaters and anyone who prefers uncomplicated, honest flavors.
Ingredients
This easy salt-and-pepper wing recipe uses only four basic ingredients.
- Chicken wings: Use wingettes (flats) and drummettes. If wing tips are attached you can remove them or leave them on.
- Olive oil: Extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil works well to help crisp the skin and prevent sticking.
- Sea salt: Draws out moisture and seasons the wings for a better crunch.
- Black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a warm, aromatic heat that balances the salt.
See the recipe card below for exact quantities.
💭Pro tip: Season directly on a baking sheet or combine salt and pepper in a small bowl first—either method works.
Variations
- Different cuts: Use drumsticks, thighs, or bite-size breast pieces if you prefer boneless options.
- Add herbs: Toss with fresh parsley, thyme, rosemary, or cilantro after cooking for bright flavor.
- Kid friendly: Reduce the black pepper if cooking for sensitive palates.
Make it Nutrient Dense
Even with a short ingredient list, small choices can boost nutrition. Choose higher-quality wings when possible—pastured or locally sourced chicken offers better flavor and potentially improved nutrition.
Cook grains or vegetables in bone broth to increase nutrient density, and serve a spoonful of fermented condiments like sauerkraut or kimchi to support gut health. Simple fermented pickles or cherry tomatoes also make great accompaniments.
Helpful Tips
Work with dry wings. Pat wings thoroughly with paper towels to remove moisture—this step is key for crisp skin.
Preheat the oven or air fryer. Make sure the appliance is fully preheated so wings cook evenly. Allowing wings to sit at room temperature briefly can also help even cooking.
Mind the cooking time. Cook times vary by appliance and wing size. Keep an eye on them and use a thermometer if you’re unsure—internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Minimize clean-up. Lining a baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup easy, though it can reduce crispiness slightly by restricting airflow. Use a crisper tray or cooling rack over a sheet for the best crunch.
Allow resting. Let wings rest for a few minutes after cooking to let juices redistribute for juicier meat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
The printable recipe card is below for exact measurements and serving info.
Season the wings, then cook in an air fryer or oven. A convection toaster-oven with crisper trays works particularly well for this recipe.
Step 1. Season wings
Preheat oven, toaster oven, or air fryer to 400°F (190°C). Pat wings dry, toss with oil, salt, and pepper, and arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet or crisper tray.
Step 2. Bake
Bake for about 25 minutes or until cooked through, depending on size and appliance.
💭Pro tip: Do not wash raw chicken before cooking; this can spread bacteria. Pat dry instead.
Step 3. Broil wings
Flip the wings and broil for a few minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crisp.
Step 4. Cool slightly
Remove from the oven and let the wings rest a few minutes before serving.
💭Pro tip: Basket-style air fryers often need less cook time than tray-style units—check early to avoid overcooking.
Helpful Tools & Links
Useful tools for making these wings include an air fryer or convection oven, a sturdy baking sheet, and a mixing bowl. Choose quality kitchen tools you already own or can borrow from a friend.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish with fresh parsley or sliced green onions and serve as part of a finger-food spread for game day. For a main course, pair with a large salad such as Caesar salad, baked potatoes, roasted cabbage, or a simple garden salad.
Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings pairing suggestions
Storage and Reheating Instructions
To store: Keep wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Freeze for up to one month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To reheat: For best texture, reheat on a baking rack in an unpreheated oven or toaster oven until warmed through. This helps preserve crispiness.
FAQs
Pat wings dry before seasoning, avoid overcrowding the pan, and use a cooling rack or crisper tray to allow air circulation. These steps promote a crisp exterior.
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes, depending on wing size and your fryer model. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Freshly ground black pepper provides a mild, earthy heat. Use white pepper for a subtler flavor or red chili flakes if you want more heat.
Looking for more simple recipes? Try other quick mains and sides for balanced meals.
Printable Recipe
Crispy Baked Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings Recipe
Anya @ Prepare & Nourish
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings wingettes and drummettes
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons sea salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Season chicken wings: Preheat oven, toaster oven, or air fryer to 400°F (190°C). Pat the wings dry, toss with oil, salt, and pepper, and spread in a single layer on a baking sheet or cooling rack over a sheet pan.
- Bake the wings: Bake for about 25 minutes or until cooked through and juices run clear.
- Broil for color: Flip and broil for 3–5 minutes until skin is golden and crisp.
- Rest and serve: Remove from oven, let cool for a few minutes, then serve.
Notes
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven on a rack for best crispiness.
Helpful tips:
- Dry wings thoroughly before seasoning to improve crispiness.
- Cooking time varies by appliance; check for 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
- Use a crisper tray or cooling rack set over a sheet pan for best airflow; parchment eases cleanup but can reduce crispiness.