Fried Chicken Wings

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil, for deep frying (about 2-3 cups, depending on the size of your pan)

For the Sauce (Optional):

• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce or honey BBQ sauce (for tossing the wings after frying)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for mixing with the sauce)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Perfect Fried Chicken Wings

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Wings

For tender, flavorful wings, marinate your chicken in buttermilk for at least 1 hour or overnight if possible. The buttermilk not only helps tenderize the meat but also adds moisture, which is essential for juicy wings. You can also add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and hot sauce to the marinade to infuse the wings with more flavor. Stir everything together and refrigerate.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

While the chicken is marinating, mix together the dry ingredients for the coating. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. The cornstarch and baking powder are essential for getting that ultra-crispy exterior. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a deep pot or large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll want the oil to reach a temperature of about 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping in a small bit of the coating mixture. If it sizzles and floats to the top, the oil is ready for frying.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Wings

Once the chicken has marinated, remove it from the buttermilk, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Then, dredge the wings in the flour mixture, making sure each wing is evenly coated. Press the coating onto the chicken gently to ensure it sticks well. For extra crispiness, you can double coat the wings by dipping them back in the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture again.

Step 5: Fry the Wings

Carefully place the coated wings in the hot oil, one at a time, without overcrowding the pan. Fry the wings in batches, cooking for about 8-10 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking on all sides. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Drain and Rest

Once the wings are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes so the coating can set and become even crunchier.

Step 7: Toss in Sauce (Optional)

If you’d like to add a sauce, now’s the time! In a small bowl, mix your choice of buffalo sauce or honey BBQ sauce with a tablespoon of melted butter for a smoother texture. Toss the fried wings in the sauce until they are well-coated. Alternatively, you can serve the wings plain and offer dipping sauces on the side.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your crispy fried chicken wings immediately while they’re still hot! Garnish with chopped parsley or celery sticks for a classic touch. Pair with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing if desired. These wings are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying them on a lazy afternoon or serving them at a party.

Why These Fried Chicken Wings are So Irresistible

• Crispy Coating: The secret to ultra-crispy wings lies in the combination of cornstarch, baking powder, and a good coating of seasoned flour. This ensures the wings are crunchy on the outside while staying tender and juicy on the inside.
• Flavorful Inside and Out: By marinating the chicken in buttermilk and seasoning it with spices, you infuse flavor into the meat itself, not just the outside. The spices in the coating also add an extra layer of taste.
• Customizable Sauces: Once you have the crispy wings ready, you can coat them in your favorite sauce. Whether you’re a fan of the spicy kick of buffalo sauce or prefer a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, these wings can be made to suit any flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy fried chicken wings can be served in a variety of ways:

• Classic Style: With a side of celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
• Buffalo Style: Tossed in buffalo sauce with a side of crisp carrots and dipping sauces.
• BBQ Style: Coated in a sweet BBQ sauce, served with cornbread or a green salad.

Final Thoughts

Fried chicken wings are a crowd-pleaser for a reason—they’re crispy, flavorful, and downright delicious. This Fried Chicken Wings recipe gives you all the tips and tricks to make wings that are perfectly golden on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying them with a spicy buffalo sauce or keeping them classic, these wings will quickly become your go-to recipe for any occasion. Get ready to enjoy a plate of wings that everyone will be asking for seconds of!