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Keto Chicken Wing - Crispy, Saucy, and Low-Carb Comfort Food

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes
  • 1 tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder (not baking soda)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (check label for no added sugar)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce or coconut aminos (optional for umami, choose low-carb)
  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Lemon wedges, to serve (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the wings. Pat the wings very dry with paper towels. Removing moisture is key to crisp skin. If you have time, leave them uncovered in the fridge for 30–60 minutes to dry further.
  2. Mix the dry coat. In a small bowl, combine baking powder, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder or cayenne if using.
  3. Season. Place wings in a large bowl. Drizzle with avocado oil and toss. Sprinkle the dry mixture over the wings and toss again until evenly coated.
  4. Choose your cooking method. Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Set a wire rack over a sheet pan lined with foil. Arrange wings in a single layer. Bake 35–45 minutes, flipping at 25 minutes, until deeply golden and crisp.
  5. Air fryer: Preheat to 390°F (200°C). Arrange wings in a single layer (work in batches). Cook 10 minutes, flip, then cook 8–12 more minutes until crisp.
  6. Grill: Medium-high heat, indirect if possible. Grill 18–25 minutes, turning occasionally, until skin is crisp and internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).
  7. Make the sauce. In a small pan, melt butter over low heat. Stir in hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce or coconut aminos. Simmer 30 seconds, then remove from heat. Taste and adjust salt or heat.
  8. Toss and finish. Transfer hot, crispy wings to a bowl. Pour in the sauce and toss to coat. Garnish with chopped herbs and a squeeze of lemon if you like.
  9. Serve. Plate with celery sticks, cucumber slices, or a keto-friendly ranch or blue cheese dip.