Chicken Wings for babies baby led weaning

Chicken Wings for Babies

Complete guide on how to prepare and serve chicken wings to your baby, by age.

High ProteinIron-RichZinc SourceB Vitamin BoostBone-BuildingBrain-Boosting Fats

Safety Information

Allergen Risk
Low (2/5)
Choking Hazard
Very High (5/5)

How to Serve Chicken Wings to a 6–9 Months Old

How to Cut

Chicken wings are not recommended for babies under 9 months due to their high choking hazard, presence of bones, and inconsistent texture. If you wish to offer chicken protein at this age, opt for skinless, boneless, well-cooked shredded or finely mashed chicken breast or thigh instead. Always remove any visible fat, cartilage, and all bones. Pieces should be offered in strips about the width and length of your finger (5-7 cm/2-3 in), or mashed for a safe texture. Never leave your baby unattended while eating meats.

Serving Instructions

For 6-9 month-olds, chicken wings are not appropriate due to their high choking risk. Instead, offer boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh, well-cooked and shredded or mashed. Serve about 15-30g (0.5-1 oz) as part of a meal, combined with iron-rich vegetables (like peas or broccoli) and a source of healthy fat (such as avocado or olive oil). Ensure a variety of textures and flavors alongside grains or soft fruit for balanced nutrition and optimal exposure.

How to Serve Chicken Wings to a 9–18 Months Old

How to Cut

Chicken wings still pose a significant choking risk at this age, especially due to bones and tough skin. If you want to offer chicken wings, remove all skin, loose cartilage, and as much fat as possible. Pull off the meat in thin shreds or small pieces (around 1 cm/0.5 in) free of bones. Supervise closely and never allow your toddler to gnaw on bones unsupervised. Alternatively, offer strips of boneless chicken, cooked and shredded, or soft, tender pieces your baby can gum easily. Always double-check for tiny bones before serving.

Serving Instructions

From 9-18 months, if offering chicken meat from wings, always ensure all bones, skin, and cartilage are removed. Serve about 20-30g (0.75-1 oz) per meal, shredded or cut into small, tender pieces for self-feeding. Pair with vitamin C-rich sides (like bell pepper or orange) and a starchy food (such as sweet potato or polenta) for a balanced meal. Always supervise; never allow your child to handle a whole wing alone.

How to Serve Chicken Wings to a 18+ Months Old

How to Cut

For children 18 months and older, chicken wings can be introduced with extra care, but always under close supervision. Remove all visible skin, cartilage, and as much fat as possible. Carefully separate the meat from the bones, checking thoroughly for small, sharp fragments. Shred or cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces (about 1.5 cm/0.6 in). If your child is ready, you may offer a whole wing to gnaw on while you supervise closely to prevent choking. Remind your child not to bite off large chunks or put an entire wing in their mouth. Practice with softer, boneless meats first.

Serving Instructions

From 18 months, chicken wings can be served with great caution. Offer 25-35g (0.9-1.25 oz), ensuring all bones and cartilage are removed from the meat for bite-sized pieces, or give a whole wing only under close supervision. Pair with a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, and a healthy fat for a balanced plate. Encourage slow eating, small bites, and always supervise when eating meat from the bone.

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