• Heat Up Your Oven: First, heat your oven up to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is crucial for getting that crispy exterior we all love on our Ponderosa wings.
• Prep the Wings: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings with olive oil, ensuring each wing is lightly coated. This helps the spices stick and gives the wings their signature crispy skin.
• Season Generously: Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the wings. Toss until they’re evenly coated in the spice mix. This step is where the magic happens, infusing the wings with the bold flavors reminiscent of Ponderosa steakhouse chicken wings.
• Arrange for Baking: Line your baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a rack on top (if you have one). Arrange the wings in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching. This allows the heat to circulate properly, giving you evenly cooked, crispy wings.
• Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the wings are golden brown and crispy. Halfway through, turn the wings over to ensure they crisp up on all sides.
• Saucy Finish: In the last 10 minutes of baking, brush your wings with BBQ sauce. Return them to the oven to caramelize the sauce slightly. This step adds a sweet and tangy glaze that complements the spicy seasoning.
• Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove the Ponderosa chicken wings from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, with your favorite sides and dips.

Pro Tips for Perfect Ponderosa Wings

• Pat Wings Dry: Before seasoning, pat the wings dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture and helps achieve that coveted crispy texture.
• Space Them Out: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Spacing the wings ensures they cook evenly and get crispy all around.
• Take a Break: After baking, letting the wings rest for a few minutes helps the juices redistribute, making every bite juicy and tasty.