Get ready to elevate your game day snacking with these mouthwatering Baked Margarita Chicken Wings! Imagine succulent, crispy wings slathered in zesty marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella, all finished with a sprinkle of fresh basil. This delightful twist on a classic dish will have your taste buds dancing and your guests begging for more. With just 10 minutes of prep and a total cook time of only 50 minutes, you’ll be serving up a crowd-pleasing favorite in no time. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to bring the flavors of your favorite pizza to your next gathering!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella, shredded
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to ensure easy cleanup.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispy skin during baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together to create a uniform seasoning mixture.
- Add the chicken wings to the seasoning mixture and toss thoroughly, ensuring each wing is evenly coated with the spices and oil.
- Arrange the seasoned wings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded to allow proper air circulation and even cooking.
- Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispy texture.
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, remove the wings from the oven and spread marinara sauce over each wing, then sprinkle shredded fresh mozzarella on top.
- Return the wings to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the wings rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to set and the wings to cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves before serving, adding a bright, fresh flavor to the dish.
- Serve hot and enjoy the margarita-inspired chicken wings with additional marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Tips
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: Make sure to thoroughly pat the chicken wings dry before seasoning. Removing excess moisture is key to achieving that perfect crispy skin.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When placing the wings on the baking sheet, ensure they are in a single layer with space between each piece. This allows for proper air circulation, which is essential for even cooking and crispiness.
- Turn for Even Cooking: Remember to turn the wings halfway through the baking process. This simple step helps to ensure that all sides get that delicious golden-brown color and crispy texture.
- Cheese It Up: For an extra cheesy experience, feel free to add more mozzarella or even try different types of cheese like provolone or parmesan for a unique twist.
- Garnish with Freshness: Don’t skip the fresh basil garnish! It not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile, giving your wings a fresh, aromatic finish.
- Serve with Extra Sauce: For those who love a little extra flavor, serve additional marinara sauce on the side for dipping. It perfectly complements the wings and keeps the flavor party going!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 145mg
