Preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F) and place a wire rack on a baking sheet to ensure even crisping.
Pat the chicken wings dry thoroughly with paper towels; removing surface moisture helps them crisp up better. Place the wings in a mixing bowl.
Sprinkle the baking powder, salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder over the wings. Toss everything together with tongs until the wings are evenly coated, ensuring the baking powder is well distributed.
Arrange the wings skin side up on the wire rack, giving each piece plenty of space to allow air circulation. This promotes even crisping and prevents sogginess.
Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they turn deep golden and the skin looks crackly. Keep an eye on them after 25 minutes to prevent burning.
Use tongs to flip the wings carefully, skin side down, then return them to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they are crispy and bubbling.
Once done, transfer the wings to a clean plate and brush them with hot sauce while they’re still hot. This keeps the skin crisp and adds vibrant flavor. Let them rest for 5 minutes to settle and stay crispy.
Serve the wings immediately, enjoying their golden, crackly exterior and juicy interior. Pair with celery sticks or your favorite dipping sauce for the perfect bite.