Chicken wings are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, whether it's game night or a family dinner. This traditional recipe gives you crispy, spicy wings that are hard to resist. Perfect for any occasion, they're sure to be a hit!
Chicken wings: The star of the dish. Make sure they are fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
All-purpose flour: Creates a light, crispy coating on the wings when fried.
Garlic powder and onion powder: Add depth and savory notes to the wings.
Paprika: Provides a mild, smoky flavor and a beautiful color.
Vegetable oil: Used for frying; choose an oil with a high smoke point for best results.
Hot sauce: The base for the wing sauce, adding heat and tanginess.
Butter: Melts into the hot sauce, creating a rich, smooth coating for the wings.
Pair these wings with a side of crunchy celery sticks and a classic blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. They also go great with a cold beer or a refreshing lemonade to balance the heat.
First, get your oil preheating to 375°F in either a deep fryer or a large pot. This ensures that once your wings hit the oil, they cook to the perfect crispness.
While the oil heats, prepare your coating. In a bowl, mix together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This blend will give your wings a flavorful, crispy crust.
Pat your chicken wings dry with paper towels. This is crucial as it helps the flour mixture stick better, resulting in a crispier wing. Once dry, coat them thoroughly in the flour mixture, making sure each wing is well-covered.
When your oil is ready, carefully add the wings in batches. Fry them for 10-12 minutes. You'll know they're done when they're golden brown and crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the pot, as this can lower the oil temperature and affect cooking.
While the wings are frying, melt the butter in a separate saucepan over low heat. Add the hot sauce and stir until well combined. This will create a smooth, spicy sauce to coat your wings.
Once the wings are fried, toss them in the hot sauce mixture until they're evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.