Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
Pat the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels – this is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Place the dried wings in a large mixing bowl. In a small bowl, combine baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the wings and toss thoroughly until every piece is well coated. The baking powder coating should look like a light dusting covering all surfaces.

Step 2: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). If using a wire rack, place it inside a large rimmed baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray. Arrange the wings on the rack in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch or overlap – this ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness. If not using a rack, line your baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange wings with space between each piece.

Step 3: Low-Temperature Bake
Bake the wings at 250°F for 30 minutes. This initial low-temperature baking renders out the fat and begins drying the skin, which is the foundation for crispiness. Don’t worry if they don’t look impressive yet – this step is essential!

Step 4: High-Temperature Crisp
After 30 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Continue baking for 20 minutes. Flip the wings using tongs and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the wings are deeply golden brown and crispy. The total baking time at high heat is about 40-45 minutes. The wings should be crackling crispy and an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
While the wings finish their final baking stage, prepare your sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned (burnt garlic is bitter). Pour in the honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until completely smooth with no lumps. Pour this slurry into the simmering sauce while whisking constantly. Continue cooking and stirring for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens noticeably and becomes glossy. It should coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in red pepper flakes if using.

Step 7: Toss Wings in Sauce
Remove the crispy wings from the oven and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. Transfer the wings to a large clean bowl. Pour about two-thirds of the honey garlic sauce over the wings and toss thoroughly using tongs until every wing is beautifully coated and glistening. Reserve the remaining sauce for drizzling or dipping.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the sauced wings to a serving platter. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy, with the reserved sauce on the side for extra dipping. Have plenty of napkins ready – these are gloriously messy in the best possible way!