Awesome Almond-Crusted Chicken Wings

Name: Awesome Almond-Crusted Chicken Wings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken wings; 1 cup crushed almonds; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 egg, beaten; 1/2 cup yogurt; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 1 tsp honey; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love making these Awesome Almond-Crusted Chicken Wings for gatherings or cozy nights at home. The crunchy almond coating gives a unique twist to traditional wings, and the flavor combination is simply irresistible. I've found that baking rather than frying retains all the flavor while keeping them lighter. Pairing them with a tangy dipping sauce takes them to the next level. Who doesn't love crispy wings that are both delicious and a little healthier? Let's get started!

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-17T15:50:28.566Z

When I first decided to try almond-crusted chicken wings, I was skeptical about how they would turn out. But after experimenting with different spices and methods, I landed on a combination that I really love. The almonds not only add a satisfying crunch, but they also bring a subtle nuttiness that complements the chicken beautifully. Trust me, once you try these, you'll never want to go back to ordinary wings!

I typically serve these wings at parties, and they always vanish within minutes. One tip I’d recommend is making sure to finely chop the almonds to ensure that they adhere well to the chicken. This small detail makes a big difference in texture and flavor, so don’t skip it!

        Why You'll Love These Wings
        Crunchy almond coating with a unique flavor
Baked for a healthier take on classic wings
Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in

      

The Perfect Crunch

Achieving that perfect crunchy coating on your almond-crusted chicken wings is all about the right balance of ingredients. The crushed almonds provide not only flavor but also a delightful texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat of the wings. If you're in a bind and don’t have crushed almonds, you can substitute with finely chopped walnuts or pecans for a slightly different yet delicious nutty flavor. Just ensure that they are crushed well to maintain the right texture when baked.

To get an even better crunch, consider double-dipping the wings. After the first dip in the egg and almond-breadcrumb mixture, you can repeat the process. This extra layer creates a thicker crust that will hold up during the baking process and give a satisfying crunch with each bite.

Baking for Healthier Wings

Baking the wings instead of frying them not only reduces the fat content but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish as the wings caramelize in the oven. Positioning the wings directly on the baking sheet allows for even airflow, which means they will cook more evenly. For an extra layer of health, using a wire rack to elevate the wings can help them crisp up even more by allowing fat to drip away as they bake.

It's essential to bake the wings at the right temperature to ensure that they are cooked through while achieving that golden brown exterior. I recommend checking their internal temperature; they should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. If you notice they're not browning as much as you'd like by the 30-minute mark, you can switch your oven to broil for a couple of minutes at the end, but keep a watchful eye to prevent burning.

Dipping Sauce Variations

The yogurt-based dipping sauce adds a refreshing tang that complements the richness of the almond-crusted wings beautifully. However, feel free to customize this to suit your taste preferences. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture. You can also swap out the yogurt for sour cream or even a dairy-free alternative if you're catering to dietary restrictions.

If you want to prepare this sauce ahead of time, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just ensure it's kept in an airtight container. Serving the wings with a variety of dipping options, such as a spicy mustard or a sweet chili sauce, can also elevate your appetizer spread and cater to a broader range of palates.

Ingredients

For the Wings

2 lbs chicken wings
1 cup crushed almonds
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten

For the Dipping Sauce

1/2 cup yogurt
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and match your spices to create your own signature flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Chicken Wings

In a bowl, season the wings with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

Set Up the Breading Station

In another bowl, mix crushed almonds and breadcrumbs together. In a separate bowl, beat the egg.

Bread the Wings

Dip each wing in the beaten egg, then coat it in the almond-breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.

Bake the Wings

Place the breaded wings on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Prepare the Dipping Sauce

While the wings are baking, mix the yogurt, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until well combined.

Serve

Once the wings are done, remove them from the oven and serve hot with the dipping sauce.

Enjoy your delicious wings at your next gathering!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken wings in your favorite spices for a few hours before breading.

Ingredient Insights

The chicken wings are the star of this dish; choosing fresh, high-quality wings will make a significant difference in taste and texture. If you’re opting for frozen wings, make sure to thaw them properly in the refrigerator overnight before preparing. This step is crucial, as it ensures even cooking and that the seasoning will adhere better.

Almonds not only lend a nutty flavor but are also rich in protein and healthy fats, which contribute to the overall nutritional profile of the wings. Consider experimenting with flavored almonds, like smoked or spicy varieties, to add an unexpected twist to your wings. Make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

Serving Suggestions

When serving your almond-crusted chicken wings, consider pairing them with an array of fresh, crunchy veggies like carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper slices. This not only provides color to your platter but also adds a healthy side that balances the richness of the wings. Set up a fun, DIY dipping station where guests can choose their favorite sauce combinations.

If you're cooking for a crowd, scaling this recipe is simple. Just remember to increase baking time if you're using multiple trays of wings, as they'll require a little more time to cook through. Alternatively, if you plan to make a smaller batch, you can reduce the ingredient amounts proportionately without any loss of flavor.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftover almond-crusted wings, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the wings on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain their crispiness compared to microwaving.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the baked wings. Allow them to cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After freezing, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. When ready to eat, reheat directly from frozen in the oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, making sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use skinless chicken wings?

Yes, skinless wings will still hold the coating well, but keep in mind they may be less juicy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I make these wings in advance?

Yes, you can bread the wings ahead of time and refrigerate them. Bake them right before serving.

→ What can I serve with these wings?

These wings pair well with a variety of sides, such as a fresh salad, veggie sticks, or roasted potatoes.