The tantalizing aroma wafting through the kitchen can transform any moment into a celebration, especially when it’s time for Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings! These wings are not just a snack; they’re an experience that merges the delight of crispy, golden skin with a juicy interior, ensuring that every bite is a flavorful explosion. With an easy-to-follow brining process that allows you to customize the spice level, these wings can be tailored to suit your taste buds perfectly. Whether you’re hosting a game-day gathering or simply craving a comfort food fix, you’ll appreciate their quick prep and adaptability—ideal for frying, baking, or air frying. So, are you ready to elevate your wing game and impress your friends? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are Crispy Spicy Wings a Must-Try?
Unforgettable Flavor: The unique blend of spices elevates these wings to a new level of taste that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Quick to Prepare: With just a few steps, you’ll have perfectly brined and coated wings ready for frying, baking, or air frying!
Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Perfect for game-day or family dinners, these wings will be the star of the table. Pair them with sides like sweet potato fries or ranch dipping sauce from my Cajun Chicken Pasta for an even heartier meal!
Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice levels to suit everyone’s palate—mild or fiery, you’re in control.
Crispy Perfection: The combination of cornstarch and flour ensures a crunchy coating that locks in the juiciness for an ultimate bite!
Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings Ingredients
For the Wings
• Chicken Wings – Use organic options for better flavor and quality.
• Sea Salt – Adjust based on taste preference for the best flavor enhancement.
For the Brine
• Almond Milk – Serves as the brining base; substitute with regular buttermilk if desired.
• Large Eggs – Binds the coating; can be replaced with Dijon mustard or mayonnaise for an egg-free option.
• Hot Sauce – Provides spiciness to the brine; adjust to control the heat level.
For the Seasoning
• Smoked Paprika – Adds a smoky flavor; regular paprika can be used for a milder touch.
• On Everything All-Purpose Blend – A versatile seasoning blend; can be made at home or bought pre-made.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Enhances heat; omit if a milder flavor is desired.
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the crispy coating; gluten-free flour is a great substitute if needed.
• Cornstarch – Ensures extra crispiness; arrowroot is an excellent alternative for gluten-free versions.
For Cooking
• Vegetable Oil (for frying) – Ensure wings fry properly; opt for oils with a high smoke point like canola.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings
Step 1: Marinate the Wings
Clean and rinse the chicken wings thoroughly, then pat them dry. In a large bowl, combine sea salt, smoked paprika, and the On Everything All-Purpose Blend to coat the wings evenly. Add the almond milk, eggs, and hot sauce, mixing well. Let the wings marinate in the mixture for a minimum of 10-15 minutes (or ideally 1-2 days in the refrigerator) to absorb all those vibrant flavors.
Step 2: Prepare Coating
While the wings are marinating, prepare your dredging station. Set out three bowls: one with cornstarch, the second with the wet mixture of eggs, almond milk, and hot sauce, and the last with a seasoned combination of all-purpose flour, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. This will create a crisp and flavorful coating for your Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings.
Step 3: Dredge the Wings
Once the wings have marinated, it’s time to coat them. Start by dipping each wing into the cornstarch, ensuring an even layer covers them. Next, transfer the wings into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off, then move them to the seasoned flour blend to coat thoroughly. Ensure each wing is well covered for that delicious crunch after frying.
Step 4: Fry the Wings
Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven to a steady medium-low temperature (about 350°F). Working in small batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully add the wings and fry them for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a stunning golden-brown color. Keep an eye on them, as you want to maintain crispy perfection without burning.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once the wings are fried to a delightful, crispy finish, remove them from the oil and let them drain on a wire rack. This helps retain their crispiness. Serve your Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings hot, and feel free to pair them with delicious dipping sauces or sides, like fries or a refreshing green salad.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings
Fridge: Store leftover Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure they are cooled completely before sealing to maintain crispness.
Freezer: For longer storage, place cooled wings in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place wings on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This will help restore their crispiness.
Room Temperature: It’s best to consume wings within 2 hours of frying if left at room temperature. Beyond that, refrigerate to ensure food safety.
Expert Tips for Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings
• Marination Time: Allow wings to marinate for at least an hour for maximum flavor retention. Overnight marination is even better!
• Coating Consistency: Ensure wings are well-coated in cornstarch, egg mixture, and seasoned flour. This creates that irresistible crunchy layer!
• Oil Temperature: Maintain oil at 350-375°F during frying. Too low and they’ll become greasy; too high and they’ll burn.
• Batch Cooking: Fry wings in small batches to avoid overcrowding. This ensures even cooking and preserves their crispy texture.
• Cooling Method: Let wings drain on a wire rack after frying. This prevents sogginess and keeps them crunchy for longer.
• Storage Tip: Store leftover Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat to restore crispness!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline meal prep! You can marinate the wings in the brine for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing them to soak up all that delicious flavor. Simply combine the seasoning and brine ingredients, coat the wings, and refrigerate. Additionally, you can prepare the coating mixtures (cornstarch, egg wash, and seasoned flour) a day ahead and store them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, dredge the marinated wings in the prepared coatings and fry them for crispy, golden perfection—creating a crowd-pleasing dish that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh!
Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings Variations
Feel free to make these wings your own with delicious twists for every palate!
- Air-Fried: Swap frying for air-frying in your air fryer to cut calories while still achieving crispy wings.
- Baked: Coat wings and lay them on a baking sheet. Bake at 425°F for 30-35 minutes for a healthier option!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch to ensure everyone can enjoy these delightful wings without worry.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk for any non-dairy milk option you love, allowing flexibility in your brining process.
- Herbs Boost: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the coating for an aromatic and enjoyable flavor.
- Crispy Without Frying: Try a broiler method after baking—broil for the last few minutes to get that golden crunch.
- Sweet & Spicy: Mix honey or maple syrup into the hot sauce before brining for a tantalizing sweet-heat combination.
- Flavor Infusion: Experiment with flavored oils or unique hot sauces to give your wings a signature twist!
Whether you go for the baked option or an adventurous flavor infusion, the joy of Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings is in the customization. Try pairing them with sides like sweet potato fries or a fresh salad, like in my Garlic Parmesan Chicken for a balanced, delightful meal.
What to Serve with Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings
There’s nothing better than gathering around a table filled with mouthwatering flavors to complement your favorite wings!
-
Creamy Coleslaw: The cool crunch of coleslaw balances the spiciness of the wings, offering a refreshing contrast that elevates every bite.
-
Sweet Potato Fries: These soft and sweet fries provide a delightful contrast to the crispy chicken and satisfy your craving for comfort food.
-
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up sauce and makes for a satisfying addition to your meal.
-
Beer: A cold, refreshing beer complements the heat of the wings and enhances the overall experience of game-day gatherings.
-
Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumber salad adds a refreshing touch that cuts through the richness of the wings, making it an ideal palate cleanser.
-
Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa brings bright, zesty flavors that perfectly complement the seasoning of the wings, sparking joy in every bite!
-
Honey Mustard Dip: The sweetness of honey with a tangy twist offers a delicious alternative to traditional wing sauces, making snacking irresistible.
-
Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the savory wings, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
-
Chocolate Mousse: End your feast on a sweet note with creamy chocolate mousse for a simple yet decadent dessert that will please every palate.
Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken wings?
Absolutely! For the tastiest results, opt for organic chicken wings if available. They tend to be fresher and more flavorful. Look for wings that are plump and have a pinkish hue without any dark spots. You want them to appear firm and not overly soft or slimy.
How should I store leftover wings for maximum freshness?
Very well! To keep your leftover Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure that the wings have completely cooled before sealing to maintain their crispy texture. If you want them to last longer, freezing is a great option!
Can I freeze these wings? If so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing is simple. Once the wings have cooled, place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, just reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes.
What should I do if my wings come out soggy?
Very! If your wings turn out soggy, it’s often due to overcrowding in the fryer or not allowing them to drain after frying. Ensure you fry in small batches, giving each wing ample space to cook evenly. After frying, always place them on a wire rack to let excess oil drain away, preserving that delightful crunch!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! For those with dietary restrictions, you can make the wings gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and cornstarch. If you’re avoiding dairy, use almond milk instead of buttermilk and consider an egg substitute like 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard or mayonnaise to maintain the recipe’s integrity. Always check for allergies when preparing for guests as well!
Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Clean and rinse the chicken wings thoroughly, then pat them dry. In a large bowl, combine sea salt, smoked paprika, and the On Everything All-Purpose Blend to coat the wings evenly. Add the almond milk, eggs, and hot sauce, mixing well. Let the wings marinate in the mixture for a minimum of 10-15 minutes (or ideally 1-2 days in the refrigerator) to absorb all those vibrant flavors.
- While the wings are marinating, prepare your dredging station. Set out three bowls: one with cornstarch, the second with the wet mixture of eggs, almond milk, and hot sauce, and the last with a seasoned combination of all-purpose flour, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt.
- Once the wings have marinated, it's time to coat them. Start by dipping each wing into the cornstarch, ensuring an even layer covers them. Next, transfer the wings into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off, then move them to the seasoned flour blend to coat thoroughly.
- Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven to a steady medium-low temperature (about 350°F). Working in small batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully add the wings and fry them for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a stunning golden-brown color.
- Once the wings are fried to a delightful, crispy finish, remove them from the oil and let them drain on a wire rack. Serve your Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings hot.
Leave a Reply