1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Wings

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). The oven should be preheated fully to ensure that the wings cook evenly and become crispy. While the oven is heating, prepare your chicken wings by patting them dry with paper towels. This step is essential because removing excess moisture helps the wings crisp up in the oven.

Place the wings in a large bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil, and then season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and paprika (if using). Toss the wings to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.

2. Bake the Wings

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent the wings from sticking. Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the baking sheet. Be sure the wings are not overcrowded so that they can bake evenly and become crispy.

Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Bake until the wings are golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The skin should be crisp, and the inside should be juicy and tender.

3. Prepare the French Onion Dip Sauce

While the wings are baking, prepare the French onion dip sauce. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sour cream and the onion soup mix. Stir in the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard (if using) for a touch of creaminess and depth of flavor. The mustard gives the dip a tangy kick that pairs well with the creamy texture of the sour cream.

If desired, add freshly chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese to the sauce for an added burst of flavor and richness. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. The sauce should be creamy and flavorful, with the onion soup mix providing the signature French onion dip taste.

4. Coat the Wings with the Sauce

Once the wings are baked and crispy, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the French onion dip sauce over the wings and toss them gently to coat each wing thoroughly. The creamy sauce should cling to the crispy wings, creating a rich, flavorful coating.

5. Serve the Wings

Transfer the coated wings to a serving platter. Garnish with additional parsley or Parmesan cheese, if desired, for an extra pop of flavor and color. Serve the wings immediately while they are still warm and crispy.