Name: Fried Chicken Wings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Buttermilk; 4 pounds Bone-in, skin-on chicken wings; 2 cups All-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons Ground paprika; 1.5 tablespoons Seasoned salt; 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Onion powder; Vegetable oil (for frying)

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When I think of comfort food, Fried Chicken Wings always comes to mind. I remember the first time I had them during a family gathering; the crispiness of the wings, paired with a tangy dipping sauce, was an unforgettable experience. They bring back memories of laughter, family, and friends gathered around a table, sharing stories and enjoying delicious bites. The beauty of Fried Chicken Wings is that they can be dressed up with various flavors or simply enjoyed in their classic form. Whether I’m hosting a game night or just looking for a quick snack, these wings never disappoint. They’re perfect for any occasion and can be made in large batches, making them an ideal choice for gatherings. Plus, who doesn’t love the sound of crispy chicken cooking in hot oil? It creates anticipation and excitement, and the aroma fills the kitchen, drawing everyone in. Get ready to recreate this cherished dish in your own kitchen and experience the joy they bring!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
24 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Deep Fryer, Dutch Oven, Deep Frying Thermometer, Baking Sheet

The Charm of This Fried Chicken Wings

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the things I love most about Fried Chicken Wings is how versatile they are. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a lively celebration, these wings fit right in. They make for a delightful appetizer at parties or can be enjoyed as the main event—either way, they’re sure to please!

Endless Flavor Combinations

With Fried Chicken Wings, the flavor possibilities are endless. You can create a variety of sauces, from spicy buffalo to sweet teriyaki, or even a classic barbecue glaze. Experimenting with different marinades allows you to personalize each batch to your taste, making every occasion unique. That’s what keeps me coming back for more!

Simple Yet Satisfying

The best part is that making Fried Chicken Wings is surprisingly simple. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can whip up a batch that rivals your favorite restaurant. The satisfaction of biting into a crispy wing, perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden perfection, is unbeatable.

A Family Favorite

These wings have a way of bringing people together, making them a family favorite. I often find myself sharing my recipe with friends, and it’s always a hit. Watching loved ones enjoy a plate of freshly fried wings is a joy that makes cooking worthwhile.

Ideal for Sharing

Fried Chicken Wings are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a cozy night in, they create a communal vibe. Everyone loves to dig in together, and the experience becomes more than just a meal; it’s about connection and enjoyment.

Recipe Ingredients for Fried Chicken Wings

Every great dish starts with quality ingredients, and Fried Chicken Wings are no exception. The combination of these ingredients is what makes the wings so flavorful and satisfying. Each component plays a vital role in creating the ultimate crispy, juicy experience that we all crave.

2 cups buttermilk – The secret to tender and juicy wings, buttermilk helps to marinate and infuse the chicken with flavor.
4 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken wings – These wings are the star of the dish; their skin crisps up beautifully, creating that perfect crunch.
2 cups all-purpose flour – Essential for dredging, the flour creates a crispy coating that’s hard to resist.
2 tablespoons ground paprika – Adds a smoky flavor and vibrant color to the wings.
1½ tablespoons seasoned salt – This brings a savory punch to the recipe, enhancing all the flavors.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses the wings with a lovely garlicky aroma.
1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic, adding depth to the taste.
vegetable oil – Necessary for frying. Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for the best results.

How to Cook Fried Chicken Wings

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process for Fried Chicken Wings. The steps are straightforward, but there’s a bit of magic that happens during frying that you won’t want to miss!

Start by pouring buttermilk into a large bowl. The key here is to ensure that the wings soak up all that creamy goodness. This will help tenderize them. You’ll need 2 cups of buttermilk.
Add the chicken wings to the bowl, ensuring they’re fully submerged in the buttermilk. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let them marinate for at least one hour or up to overnight in the refrigerator. The longer they marinate, the more flavors they absorb.
Once ready, combine the flour, paprika, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and onion powder in a shallow dish. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Next, heat about three inches of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or deep fryer until it reaches 350°F. You can use a deep-frying thermometer to check the temperature. It’s crucial for frying the wings properly.
Take 5 to 6 chicken wings out of the buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off. This step is important to avoid a soggy coating.
Dredge each wing in the seasoned flour, pressing firmly to ensure they are coated well. The coating will create that sought-after crunch.
Carefully drop the coated wings into the hot oil, frying them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot to maintain the oil temperature.
Once browned, transfer the wings to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Repeat the dredging and frying steps for the remaining wings.
To keep the wings warm while you finish frying, arrange them in a single layer on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet, leaving space between each wing. Place them in a 200°F oven.
Finally, serve your Fried Chicken Wings with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the crispy, savory goodness!

Things Worth Knowing

Marination is Key: Allowing the chicken to soak in buttermilk not only adds flavor but also tenderizes the meat, resulting in a juicier bite.
Temperature Control: Keeping the oil temperature stable is crucial. If it’s too low, the wings will absorb more oil and become greasy. Too high, and they may burn before cooking through.
Don’t Rush: Give each batch of wings enough space in the oil. This ensures they cook evenly and develop that desired crunchy exterior.
Use Fresh Oil: For the best flavor and texture, avoid reusing oil too many times. Fresh oil makes a significant difference in the final result.

Change It Up

If you’re looking to customize your Fried Chicken Wings, here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

Storage: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispness.
Freezing: Yes, you can freeze cooked wings! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.
Pairing: These wings pair excellently with celery sticks and your choice of blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
Spicy Version: For those who enjoy heat, consider adding cayenne pepper to the flour mixture or toss the fried wings in a spicy sauce after cooking.
Glaze Options: Experiment with different sauces, such as honey garlic or maple BBQ, to create a sweet and sticky coating.
Cooking Method: Try air-frying the wings for a healthier, less oily option while achieving a crispy texture.

Accompaniments for Fried Chicken Wings

When serving Fried Chicken Wings, it’s all about creating a spread that compliments the crispy, savory flavor. Here are some fantastic accompaniments:

Classic Dipping Sauces: Serve with blue cheese dressing, ranch, or spicy buffalo sauce to enhance the flavor of the wings.
Crunchy Sides: Pair with a fresh vegetable platter, including carrots and celery sticks, for a refreshing contrast.
Fries or Onion Rings: Golden fries or crispy onion rings make for excellent side dishes that pair perfectly with chicken wings.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a nice crunch and balance the richness of the fried wings.
Southern-themed Meal: Create a full Southern feast by serving the wings alongside cornbread and macaroni salad.
Game Day Snacks: These wings are a must-have for game day. Set up a buffet with various snacks for an enjoyable viewing experience.

FAQ

To achieve ultra-crispy Fried Chicken Wings, ensure your oil is hot enough—ideally around 350°F. Dredging the wings thoroughly in seasoned flour also helps create that crunchy exterior. Additionally, consider double frying the wings. After the initial fry, let them rest for a few minutes, then fry them again for about 3-5 minutes until golden brown. This method gives you that satisfying crunch that everyone loves!

Yes, you can use frozen wings, but it’s essential to thaw them completely before frying. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for the best results. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which can cause the oil to splatter during frying. This will ensure that your Fried Chicken Wings cook evenly and achieve that crispy texture.

There are many delicious sauces that pair perfectly with Fried Chicken Wings. Popular choices include classic buffalo sauce, honey garlic, and barbecue sauce. You can also create a spicy glaze by mixing hot sauce with melted butter. For something unique, consider a sweet chili sauce or a teriyaki glaze. The choice is yours and can really elevate your wings to the next level!

To store leftover Fried Chicken Wings, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving them as this will make the coating soggy. Enjoy them again just as you did fresh!

Conclusion

The charm of Fried Chicken Wings lies in their crispy exterior and juicy interior, making them a delightful dish for any occasion. Each bite offers a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist. I encourage you to try this recipe and share it with loved ones; you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy the process, and more importantly, enjoy the wings!

Fried Chicken Wings

The ultimate comfort food, Fried Chicken Wings are juicy, crispy, and bursting with flavor. A perfect choice for gatherings, game nights, or just satisfying your cravings. Try this easy recipe tonight and enjoy the deliciousness!

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 cups Buttermilk
4 pounds Bone-in, skin-on chicken wings
2 cups All-purpose flour
2 tablespoons Ground paprika
1.5 tablespoons Seasoned salt
1 teaspoon Garlic powder
1 teaspoon Onion powder
Vegetable oil for frying

Equipment

Deep Fryer
Dutch oven
Deep Frying Thermometer
Baking Sheet

Method

Start by pouring buttermilk into a large bowl. The key here is to ensure that the wings soak up all that creamy goodness. This will help tenderize them. You’ll need 2 cups of buttermilk.
Add the chicken wings to the bowl, ensuring they’re fully submerged in the buttermilk. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let them marinate for at least one hour or up to overnight in the refrigerator. The longer they marinate, the more flavors they absorb.
Once ready, combine the flour, paprika, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and onion powder in a shallow dish. Mix well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Next, heat about three inches of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven or deep fryer until it reaches 350°F. You can use a deep-frying thermometer to check the temperature. It’s crucial for frying the wings properly.
Take 5 to 6 chicken wings out of the buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off. This step is important to avoid a soggy coating.
Dredge each wing in the seasoned flour, pressing firmly to ensure they are coated well. The coating will create that sought-after crunch.
Carefully drop the coated wings into the hot oil, frying them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot to maintain the oil temperature.
Once browned, transfer the wings to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Repeat the dredging and frying steps for the remaining wings.
To keep the wings warm while you finish frying, arrange them in a single layer on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet, leaving space between each wing. Place them in a 200°F oven.
Finally, serve your Fried Chicken Wings with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the crispy, savory goodness!

Notes

Tip 1: To make your own buttermilk, measure 2 cups of milk, remove 2 tablespoons, and mix in 2 tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let this mixture sit for 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.
Tip 2: Don’t try to fry too much chicken at once. Frying more than 4-5 wings at a time will drop the temperature of the oil too much, leading to greasy chicken.
Tip 3: I never recommend deep frying anything in olive oil, as it will burn.