Chicken wings are a popular dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course. While there are many ways to prepare them, baking is one of the healthiest methods as it requires little oil and results in crispy, delicious wings. However, the key to perfectly baked chicken wings lies in knowing how long to cook them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to achieve the perfect baked chicken wings.

Preparing the Chicken Wings

Before you start cooking, you need to prepare your chicken wings. First, clean and dry them thoroughly. Rinse the wings with cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is essential to prevent any bacteria from spreading and to ensure that the seasoning sticks to the wings.

Next, season the chicken wings to your liking. You can use any seasoning you like, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try different marinades or sauces to give your wings a unique flavor.

Once seasoned, let the chicken wings sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes. This step allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat and enhances the flavor.

Remember to wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces that came into contact with raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.

Setting up the Oven

The next step is to set up your oven for baking. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and choose the right baking sheet. A rimmed baking sheet is ideal as it prevents the chicken wings from rolling around and spilling any juices.

Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent the wings from sticking to the sheet and to make cleaning up easier.

By preheating the oven, you ensure that the chicken wings cook evenly and retain their moisture. This step also reduces the cooking time and prevents any undercooked or overcooked wings.

Now that you have prepared your chicken wings and set up your oven, it’s time to start cooking. In the next section, we will go through the steps to bake your chicken wings to perfection.

Cooking the Chicken Wings

After setting up your oven, it’s time to cook the chicken wings. Start by placing the chicken wings on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between the wings to allow air to circulate and ensure even cooking. You can also use a wire rack to elevate the wings and allow excess fat to drip off.

Next, bake the chicken wings in the preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 25-30 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the wings, so it’s best to check the internal temperature to ensure they are fully cooked.

Checking the Internal Temperature of the Chicken Wings

To check the internal temperature of the chicken wings, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the wing, making sure not to touch the bone. The temperature should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is lower, continue cooking for a few more minutes and check again.

Checking the internal temperature is crucial for ensuring that the chicken wings are fully cooked and safe to eat. Undercooked chicken can cause foodborne illnesses, so it’s essential to always check the temperature.

Once the chicken wings are fully cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute and the wings to cool down slightly.

You can serve the chicken wings as is or toss them in your favorite sauce. Popular sauces include buffalo, barbecue, honey mustard, or teriyaki. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for added flavor and presentation.

In conclusion, baking chicken wings in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy this classic dish. By following these steps, you can ensure that your chicken wings are perfectly cooked every time. Remember to clean and dry your chicken wings before seasoning, preheat your oven, choose the right baking sheet, and check the internal temperature for safety. Happy cooking!