Baked BBQ Chicken Wings

Bring the tailgate vibes to your kitchen with these sticky, smoky, and utterly irresistible Baked BBQ Chicken Wings.

There’s nothing like biting into a perfect chicken wing—crisp skin, juicy meat, and a saucy glaze that gets all over your fingers in the best way. While there are countless ways to enjoy wings—spicy, sweet, garlicky, dry-rubbed—sometimes it’s the classic barbecue version that hits the spot.

These baked BBQ chicken wings are made for game days, casual get-togethers, or even weeknight dinners when comfort food is calling. The first time I brought a tray of these to a neighbor’s backyard potluck, the platter was wiped clean within minutes, and guests were actually licking their fingers, asking for the recipe. So be prepared to share!

Unlike fried versions, these wings are baked until golden and crisp, then slathered in a thick, sticky layer of barbecue sauce that caramelizes just enough in the oven to make them irresistible. The ingredient list keeps things simple: meaty chicken wings, a few pantry staples for seasoning, and a good-quality sugar-free BBQ sauce that delivers bold flavor without the added sugar crash. They’re easy to whip up, universally loved, and come with the added bonus of minimal cleanup—just don’t forget the napkins, because things are bound to get deliciously messy.

Are These Baked BBQ Chicken Wings Healthy?

While chicken wings don’t top any superfood lists, baking instead of frying already gives this recipe a leg up in the health department. You’ll cut down significantly on oil and fat while still getting that crave-worthy crunch, thanks to a secret ingredient: baking powder.

Using a sugar-free barbecue sauce helps keep added sugars in check, and if you’re watching your fat intake, opting for skinless wings is a simple switch. Want a meat-free alternative? Try Buffalo Cauliflower Wings—all the flavor, no chicken necessary.

BBQ Sauce Breakdown: Store-Bought Vs. Homemade

The secret to seriously swoon-worthy wings? It’s all about the sauce. For these baked BBQ chicken wings, I recommend using a high-quality sugar-free BBQ sauce—but whether you go store-bought or homemade is totally up to you.

Store-bought options are a huge time-saver and come in tons of flavor profiles, from smoky chipotle to spicy habanero. Just be sure to scan the label for sneaky added sugars or artificial ingredients if you’re keeping things clean. I like to keep a few go-to bottles in my pantry for last-minute wing nights or busy weeknights.

That said, if you’re up for a DIY moment, you can’t beat the flavor payoff of homemade BBQ sauce. Homemade BBQ sauce takes just a few minutes to make and gives you full control over the sweetness, tang, and spice. Want it a little smokier? Add smoked paprika. Prefer a bit of heat? Toss in a pinch of cayenne. Plus, making it from scratch means no weird preservatives—just real ingredients and bold flavor.

Whichever route you choose, don’t skimp on the sauce. It’s the final glossy glaze that makes these wings downright addictive.

Serving Suggestions

If you’re feeling ambitious, you can also try whipping up your own homemade Low-Carb Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce or Keto BBQ Sauce. Pair these wings with a crisp side like Apple Coleslaw or Southern Coleslaw to cut through the richness, or go all in with indulgent options like Mac And Cheese Bites or Battered Fries. Serving a crowd? Add in some Teriyaki Chicken Wings and Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings for a full-on wing night spread.

Recipe