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Experience the ultimate in crispy indulgence with my Salt and Vinegar Chicken Wings. This wing recipe combines the classic taste of salt vinegar chips with a simple oven-baking method to create perfectly golden, ideally crunchy, and boldly flavorful wings that are impossible to resist! This easy to follow, step by step recipe will ensure you serve up a plate of mouthwatering, perfectly flavorful chicken wings every time.

“Guess who’s leaving another review for this recipe because she can’t help herself! It’s almost Super Bowl time, everyone. MAKE THESE WINGS FOR SUPER BOWL. You’re welcome. Favorite recipe in the world!’

– SUE
Overhead photo of a dozen vinegar salt wings in a bowl lined with parchment paper with ramekin of dipping sauce next to the chicken wings.

Update: This recipe was originally published in January 2015. Over the years I have made small tweaks to this chicken wing recipe so it’s truly *chef’s kiss* perfect! Plus, there’s now a step by step video showing you exactly how easy these potato chip flavored wings are to make at home.

Hi, friends! What are you’re thoughts on salt and vinegar potato chips? Growing up I had a serious love for those perfectly tangy, salty chips.

During my last trip to the grocery store I had a most glorious request that involved the beloved chips from my youth. While I was there, one of their managers asked if I knew how to make salt n’ vinegar chicken wings. She said some of the other employees and herself were absolutely obsessed with the ones in their deli department where they were made fresh daily.

Right then and there I knew I just had to try and recreate those crave-worthy wings at home. And I did just that! So, Amber, this recipe goes out to you.

Overhead photo of raw chicken wings with salt and vinegar seasonings in a large mixing bowl.

About these salt and vinegar wings

Chicken wings with roasted, tender, incredibly juicy meat, impossibly crispy skin, and all the robust flavor.

This salt and vinegar wings recipe has the perfect combination of salty and tangy flavor found in the chips! These wings have a nice flavorful, bold bite and tang from the duo of vinegars and are balanced out by the fleeting salty flavor. With an extremely subtle hint of sweetness and zip from the touch of sugar and dry ranch mix, these wings are highly addictive!

Perfectly crispy, juicy and bold in flavor, if you like salt and vinegar chips, I can absolutely guarantee you will fall head over heels in love with these wings!

And, since these wings are oven baked and not deep fried, you can indulge without all the guilt! Hello winning at life!

Why you’ll love this recipe

  • Original and Unique Recipe: I created this recipe for salt and vinegar wings back at the end of 2014 and published in it 2015. It’s an original take that offers a distinctive flavor combination, setting it apart from countless variations that have come into existence online since. It provides an authentic and unique twist that you won’t find elsewhere, ensuring your wings are a standout choice.
  • Unmatched Flavor Profile: This vinegar salt wings recipe delivers a perfect balance of tangy and salty flavors, enticing your taste buds with every bite. The unique seasoning blend ensures these hot wings will stand out from the crowd with a distinct, mouthwateringly perfect taste.
  • Crispy Perfection: This recipe guarantees a crispy, beautifully golden exterior that contrasts beautifully with a tender, juicy chicken interior. The marinating, seasoning and oven-cooking method ensures each wing reaches that perfect crunch without the need for frying.
  • Simplicity and Ease: I designed this salt vinegar wings recipe with home cooks of all skill levels in mind. The recipe features straightforward ingredients, a simple preparation process, and a hassle-free cooking method to create impressively delicious hot wings – without spending hours in the kitchen. Hooray!
Overhead photo of nine crispy, baked chicken wings on a wire rack inserted into a baking pan.

What is salt and vinegar seasoning?

Salt and vinegar is a robust seasoning used to flavor a variety of foods, from chips and French fries to popcorn and chicken wings! Salt vinegar seasoning provides a harmonious balance of zesty salt and bold vinegar flavors.

Ingredients for salt and vinegar chicken wings

  • Chicken Wings: You can’t make wings without the chicken wings! You’ll need to separate them into drumettes and flats to ensure even cooking.
  • Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh and not expired as it’s crucial for achieving a crispy texture on the wings.
  • Kosher Salt: To enhance all the other flavors.
  • Distilled White Vinegar: Vinegar adds a sharp, tangy flavor essential for that classic salt and vinegar flavor.
  • Malt Vinegar: Malt vinegar lends a rich, distinctive flavor that contributes to the classic tangy flavor found in the potato chips. Swap: You can use apple cider if needed.
  • Dry Ranch Mix: Dry ranch spices is the secret ingredient that provides a savory, herby flavor that mimics the spice found in the chips. I recommend making your own or using a high-quality brand to ensure the best flavor.
  • Granulated Sugar: You just need a pinch (1 teaspoon) of white sugar to balance the acidity of the vinegars.
  • Garlic Powder: Garlic powder lends a subtle garlic flavor that enhances the seasonings of these wings. Use a good brand to avoid any clumping.

Variations

  • Spicy Vinegar Salt Wings: Craving hot hot wing? I got you! Simply add 1 teaspoon (more or less to taste) of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the vinegar and salt marinade before marinating the chicken wings.
  • Lemon Herb Salt Vinegar Wings: Prefer the tang of fresh lemon to vinegars? Swap the malt vinegar for fresh lemon juice and add up to 1 tablespoon of your favorite dry herbs (think: thyme, parsley, basil, etc.) to the salt and vinegar wing seasoning mix.
  • Cajun Salt and Vinegar Chicken Wings: If you love the flavor of the big easy, this one’s for you. Simply add 1 to 2 tablespoons of cajun flavored seasoning to the salt and vinegar marinade. Marinate the wings and bake according to the recipe.
  • Garlic Parmesan Vinegar Wings: Add 1/4 cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese and 1 or more teaspoons garlic powder to the salt and vinegar sauce. Toss the cooked wings with the parmesan sauce and enjoy.
  • Air Fryer Salt and Vinegar Wings: Preheat your air-fryer to 375-degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes. Grease the basket and arrange the chicken wings in an even layer, leaving space in between each wing for air to circulate. Air fry the wings for 10 minutes total, flipping the wings over half way through frying. Then follow the recipe as directed.
  • Deep Fryer Vinegar Chicken Wings: Heat peanut oil to between 350-375-degrees Fahrenheit. Add the wings to the hot oil in batches and deep-fry until they’re golden brown all over and an instant read thermometer reads 165-degrees when inserted into the chicken wing – away from the bone. Then, follow the recipe card as directed.
Close-up photo of three salt and vinegar chicken wings garnished with flakey sea alt and sliced scallions.

How to make this recipe for salt and vinegar wings

These chicken wings are truly crispy and bursting with delicious salt and vinegar flavor, and yet they are also so easy to make! With just a few minutes of preparation you can make crispy, better than restaurant-quality wings in your very kitchen!!

Salt vinegar wing seasoning

  1. Make the salt and vinegar sauce: Combine all the sauce ingredients in a small jar or container with a tight fitting lid. Vigorously shake to combine. Set aside.
  2. Marinate Chicken Wings: Place the wings in a large zip-closure bag. Pour HALF the salt and vinegar sauce over the wings. Seal the bag and shake to coat the wings. Transfer to the refrigerator and allow to marinate for at least 3 hours, or up to overnight.

Baking chicken wings

  1. Preheat oven: Arrange one oven rack in the lower third position and one in the top third position. Preheat oven to 250 degrees F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy clean up. Place a wire rack insert on top of the baking sheet. Spray the rack with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the wings from sticking.
  2. Dry wings and toss with baking powder: Remove chicken wings from the marinade, gently shaking excess marinade off the wings. Discard marinade. Transfer wings to a clean work surface lined with paper towels. Pat the wings thoroughly dry. Transfer the dried wings to a large zip-closure bag. Add the baking powder and kosher salt to the bag. Seal and shake the bag vigorously to evenly coat the wings. Transfer the wings SKIN SIDE UP to the wire rack baking sheet in a single layer.
  3. Cook Chicken Wings at Low heat: Bake the chicken wings on the LOWER shelf in the oven for 30 minutes.
  4. Cook Chicken Wings at High heat: Move the wings to the UPPER shelf and increase the oven temperature to 425 F. Bake for an additional 20 minutes. Remove the wings from the oven and flip them over. Return to the oven and continue to bake for 20 minutes, or until the wings are golden brown and the skin is crispy!
  5. Toss wings and serve: Transfer the vinegar chicken wings to a large mixing bowl. Pour the remaining salt and vinegar sauce over the wings. Toss well to coat. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert tips for the most success!

  • Use Quality Ingredients. Select good-quality chicken wings and brands of vinegars. As well, make the ranch spice yourself or use a reputable brand.
  • Marinate for at Least 3 Hours. If you’re looking for that classic salt and vinegar flavor, you’ll need to marinate the wings in the salt vinegar sauce for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight.
  • Dry the Wings Thoroughly. Be sure to pat the wings dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure the wings become crispy during baking.
  • You Need Baking Powder. You MUST coat the wings with baking powder – not baking soda – before baking. Baking powder raises the PH levels in the skin, which breaks down the proteins and promotes that golden brown crispness.
  • Use an Oven Rack. Arrange the seasoned chicken wings onto a wire rack set over a baking sheet. The rack allows air to circulate around the wings, promoting crispiness on all sides.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan. Arrange the raw wings in a single layer on the wire rack, leaving space in between each chicken wing. Over-crowding will cause your wings to steam instead of bake.
  • Bake the Wings on Low Heat, then High Heat. Baking the wings at a lower temperature first allows the fat to render and the meat to cook gently. Raising the temperature towards the end of baking renders any remaining fat and gives the skin that enviable, crispy texture. This two-step baking process ensures you get both tender meat AND crispy skin!
  • Toss in Additional Seasonings After Baking. After baking, toss the wings with the reserved salt vinegar sauce, flaky sea salt, and any extra seasonings to enhance the flavors.
  • Rest Chicken Wings. Just like everything you cook, you need to let the wings rest for a few minutes after baking. Resting allows the juices to redistribute.

Step-by-step photos: making this recipe at home

Overhead photo collage of how to make crispy salt and vinegar chicken wings step by step with written instructions on each step.

FAQs: frequently asked questions

Do I have to marinate chicken wings? 

If you want a truly salt and vinegar flavored wing, I highly suggest you marinate the wings first. The salt and vinegar sauce doubles as a marinade, so there are no extra ingredients needed to marinate the wings!

After marinating the wings make sure you discard the marinade! Since you will not be actually cooking the marinade, it is unsafe to eat since it has been in contact with raw chicken.

If you want a more subtle, very mildly flavored salt and vinegar chicken, you can cut disregard the step for marinating the wings and start with step 3 of the recipe.

How much vinegar should I use?

For a 2-pound batch of salt vinegar wings, you’ll need a little more than 1 cup of vinegar. A combination of white vinegar and malt vinegar will lend the most authentic flavor. But you can use apple cider vinegar for a different, unique flavor.

What’s the best way to get a crispy texture?

These baked salt & vinegar chicken wings have an extremely crisp, golden exterior with incredibly tender and juicy meat. They taste like they were deep fried without all the hot oil and messy grease!

There are a few tricks you must follow in order to achieve truly crispy chicken wings made in the oven:

For crispy wings, be sure to pat them thoroughly dry to remove the excess moisture before seasoning and cooking. Also, you need to use baking powder when seasoning the chicken wings. Baking powder helps draw moisture out of the chicken skin, aiding in evaporation and promoting crisping. The third trick is a two-bake method. First, bake the wings at a low temperature to dry out the skin and melt the fat. Then, switch the oven to a higher heat to crisp the skin.


Should I bake or fry the wings?

I personally think both methods work great. Baking is healthier and easier for large batches of vinegar and salt wings. However, frying will obviously provide a crispier texture. It honestly just depends what you’re looking for and how much of a mess you want to make. 

How can I achieve restaurant-quality wings at home?

The first key is to marinate the chicken wings in the salt and vinegar mixture overnight. The second key is a two-step cooking process. First, bake the wings at a lower temperature until they’re cooked through, then raise the temperature and bake the vinegar salt wings until they’re extra crispy.

When should I add the salt and vinegar seasoning?

For the most intense salt and vinegar flavor, be sure to marinate the chicken wings in the sauce. Then, toss the wings in the seasoning immediately after cooking while they’re still hot. This allows the wings to absorb the flavors better.

What dipping sauce for vinegar wings?

If you are like me, and absolutely must have some sort of sauce for dipping, I have a couple suggestions to go along with this salt and vinegar wings recipe:

  • I tried these baked salt & vinegar chicken wings with some chipotle ranch and they were good.
  • Then, I dipped some in a plain Sriracha and gobbled them up.
  • And next, I whipped up a quick Sriracha mayo and was in food heaven. But, I’m biased because I can eat Sriracha off my fingertips and be happy.
  • However, my favorite was simply to make a little extra salt and vinegar sauce. Using the sauce as a dip results in the ultimate explosion of salt and vinegar taste.

But obviously you can use your favorite variety of dressing as a dip!

Is this chicken wing recipe Keto-friendly?

This chicken wing recipe is keto-friendly and low in carbs.

Gluten-free?

This vinegar salt wings recipe as written is not gluten-free. To make gluten-free salt and vinegar chicken wings, replace the malt vinegar with apple cider vinegar.

Photo of a dozen crispy baked salt and vinegar hot wings sprinkled with flakey sea salt and thinly sliced chives.

Serving salt and vinegar hot wings

Salt and vinegar chicken wings make a great appetizer, lunch, snack or dinner. Below are some serving suggestions and dishes that pair well:

Common serving suggestions

Unique serving ideas

  • Wing Salad: Make a salt and vinegar chicken wing salad by tossing the wings with leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, hard boiled eggs, seasoned croutons, parmesan cheese, and a vinegar-based dressing.
  • Southern Style Dinner: Transform the wings into a crispy chicken dinner and serve with a side of macaroni and cheese or baked beans, collard greens or grilled corn on the cobs, and cheesy beer bread
  • Chicken Wing Pizza: Remove the chicken meat from the wings and roughly chop. Then, use the salt and vinegar sauce on the pizza crust and top with shredded mozzarella. Bake until almost golden and then top with the leftover chicken and whatever pizza toppings you love (caramelized onions are great here). Continue to bake until the crust is golden, the chicken is warm, and the cheese is melted. 

storing leftovers

  • Allow leftover baked chicken wings to cool completely to room temperature.
  • Once cool, store leftover salt and vinegar chicken wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating instructions

  • Oven: Reheat vinegar salt wings in a 200-degree Fahrenheit oven for 10-12 minutes, or until warm throughout,
  • Air Fryer: Add leftover chicken wings to an air fryer basket and air fry at 400-degrees Fahrenheit for 4-5 minutes, or until warm throughout.

Freezing instructions

  • Allow leftover oven baked hot wings to cool completely to room temperature.
  • Once cool, transfer wings to a freezer safe resealable bag or storage container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Pro-Tip: If you plan on freezing your wings, do not toss them in the salt and vinegar sauce. Simply follow the recipe, marinating the wings in the seasonings, baking the wings, and then cooling them to room temperature. Follow the instructions above for reheating and toss with the vinegar salt sauce just before serving.
Close-up photo of crispy salt vinegar wing garnished with flaky sea salt.

So, what are you waiting for? Get into the kitchen (or into your car, if you have to go to the grocery store first) and make these Baked Salt & Vinegar Wings!

Until next time, friends, cheers!

Cheyanne

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More recipes for chicken wings!

Overhead photo of a dozen salt and vinegar wings in a parchment lined bowl with a small bowl of vinegar sauce off to the side.

Salt and Vinegar Wings

4.97 from 27 votes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Experience the ultimate in crispy indulgence with my Salt and Vinegar Wings. This chicken wing recipe combines the classic taste of salt vinegar chips with a simple oven-baking method to create perfectly golden, ideally crunchy, and boldly flavorful wings that are impossible to resist! This easy to follow, step by step recipe will ensure you serve up a plate of mouthwatering, perfectly flavorful hot wings every time.

Equipment

  • 1 Airtight Jar or Container – for making the salt and vinegar marinade/sauce
  • 2 Large Zip-Closure Bag OR Large Bowl – for marinating the chicken wings and toss with baking powder
  • 1 Large Rimmed Baking Sheet – with wire rack – for baking the wings

Ingredients 

Chicken Wings

  • 2 pounds Chicken Wings – separated into drumettes and flats (SEE NOTES)
  • 2 ½ tsp Baking Powder – DO NOT use baking soda!
  • 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt

Salt and Vinegar Marinade and Sauce

  • 1/2 Cup White Distilled Vinegar
  • 6 TBS Malt Vinegar – or Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 2 TBS Flaky Sea Salt (Maldon) – plus more for garnishing
  • 2 1/4 tsp Dry Ranch Mix
  • 1 tsp Granulated Sugar
  • ¼ tsp Garlic Powder
  • Optional Garnishes: Sliced Chives or Scallions and Flaky Sea Salt

Instructions

  • Make the Salt and Vinegar Sauce:  To a small jar, bowl or container with a tight fitting lid, add both vinegars, flakey sea salt, ranch mix, sugar, and garlic powder.
    Use a whisk to stir or seal the jar and vigorously shake to thoroughly combine all the ingredients – making sure both salt and sugar are completely dissolved. 
  • Marinate Chicken Wings: Add the chicken wings to a large zip-closure bag or bowl. 
    Pour HALF of the salt and vinegar sauce over the wings.  Seal the bag and shake to coat the wings or toss the wings to coat.
    Transfer the chicken wings to the refrigerator and allow to marinate for at least 3 hours, or preferably up to overnight.
  • Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Pan: When ready to cook, arrange one oven rack to the lower third position and one to the top third position in the oven.  Then, preheat the oven to 250 degrees F. 
    Line a large rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy clean up.  Place a wire rack insert on top of the baking sheet.  Spray the rack with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the wings from sticking.
  • Dry Wings and Toss with Baking Powder:  Remove the chicken wings from the marinade, gently shaking the excess marinade off the wings and discarding the marinade. 
    Transfer the wings to a clean work surface lined with paper towels and pat the wings completely dry.
    Transfer the dried wings to a large zip-closure bag or bowl. Add the baking powder and kosher salt to the chicken wings.  Seal the bag and shake vigorously to evenly coat the wings. Alternatively, if you used a bowl, vigorously toss the wings to evenly coat them in the baking powder.
    Once all the wings are coated, transfer them SKIN SIDE UP to the wire rack set int baking sheet, arranging the wings in a single, evenly spaced layer. (Tip: Don't over-pack the wings onto the rack or they'll steam instead of bake.)
  • Bake Chicken Wings at 250° Fahrenheit on Bottom Shelf:  Place the chicken wings into the oven on the BOTTOM shelf and bake for 30 minutes.
  • Cook Chicken Wings at 425° Fahrenheit: Move the baking pan of chicken wings to the UPPER shelf and then increase the oven temperature to 425 F.
    Bake the wings for 20 minutes. 
    Remove the wings from the oven and flip them over. 
    Then, return the wings to the oven and continue to bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the wings are golden brown, the skin is crispy, and the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165° Fahrenheit.
  • Toss Wings in Remaining Sauce:  Remove the vinegar salt wings from the oven and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the remaining salt and vinegar sauce all over the wings and toss well to fully coat them in the sauce. 
  • Serve salt and vinegar wings immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or hot sauce, celery sticks, and carrot sticks or french fries. Enjoy!

Video

Notes

  1. To separate chicken wings into drumettes and flats: Remove wing tips from chicken wings with a sharp chef’s knife, or kitchen shears, at the joint. (save tips for making stock or discard)  Separate chicken drumettes from flats by cutting through the joint between the two. The joint is easy to find, bend the flat from the wing backwards, exposing joint.  
  2. The recipe for the cooking method of these wings adapted from Cook’s Illustrated and Recipetineats.com
  3. Need to Scale the Recipe? Hover your mouse over the number of servings in the recipe card. You’ll see a sliding scale pop up, you can use that to scale the recipe up or down as needed.
  4. Got questions? I’ve got answers! If you ever run into an issue, have a question, or need any clarification – please feel free to drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can! 
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and the nutrition facts are an estimate based upon 4 servings. Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 293kcal    Carbohydrates: 3g    Protein: 22g    Fat: 20g    Saturated Fat: 5g    Cholesterol: 94mg    Sodium: 496mg    Potassium: 444mg    Sugar: 1g    Vitamin A: 180IU    Vitamin C: 1mg    Calcium: 123mg    Iron: 1mg

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Slightly angled, overhead shot of Baked Salt & Vinegar Chicken Wings pouring out of a salt and vinegar chips bag.