As I pulled my first batch of Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings from the bubbling oil, the sizzle and aroma filled my kitchen, instantly igniting my taste buds. These wings are a celebration of flavor—marinated in a spicy buttermilk brine, they offer a perfect balance of juicy tenderness inside and a satisfyingly crispy exterior. Whether you’re gearing up for game day or just yearning for a fun meal, these wings are not only a crowd-pleaser but also easily customizable with options like air-frying or baking for a healthier twist. With this recipe in hand, you can set aside the takeout menu and bring the joy of homemade comfort to your table. Curious to see how I turn those simple ingredients into a sensational feast? Let’s dive in!
Why are these wings a must-try?
Crispy, golden perfection: These wings boast an unbeatable crunch that breaks open to reveal juicy, flavorful meat inside.
Spicy kick: Perfectly marinated in a bold, spicy buttermilk brine, they elevate your taste experience.
Versatile options: Choose between frying, baking, or air-frying to suit your cooking preference or dietary needs.
Quick and easy: Ready in under an hour, these wings are the answer to your last-minute cravings.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, they’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ready to indulge? Pair these with homemade ranch or dive into a platter alongside Spicy Korean Fried or even Crispy Bang Bang Chicken Bites for a full flavor experience!
Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings Ingredients
For the Wings
• Organic Chicken Wings – The heart of this dish, providing a satisfying meaty texture; frozen wings can be used after thawing.
• Large Eggs (2) – These bind the coating and help achieve that irresistible crispiness; substitute with 1 tablespoon of dijon mustard or mayonnaise each for binding.
• Almond Milk (1 cup) – Serves as a base for the brine, adding moisture; feel free to swap with whole milk or your favorite plant-based milk.
For the Seasoning
• Smoked Paprika (2 Tbsp + 1 tsp) – Delivers a deep, smoky flavor that enhances the wings; regular paprika or chili powder can be used for a different twist.
• On Everything All-Purpose Blend (2 tsp + 1 tsp for coating) – This blend brings depth and complexity; create a homemade mix with spices like salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
• Sea Salt (1 tsp) – Elevates the natural flavor of the chicken wings; no substitutes needed here.
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour (½ cup) – Essential for achieving that crispy exterior; a gluten-free flour blend works perfectly for gluten-free needs.
• Cornstarch (¼ cup) – Adds an extra crunch to the coating; arrowroot starch is a great gluten-free alternative.
• Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp) – For an extra kick of heat; adjust according to your spice preference or omit for milder wings.
For Frying
• Vegetable Oil (3-4 cups) – This is what ensures those wings are crispy and golden; substitute with canola, peanut, or sunflower oil as desired.
• Hot Sauce (2-3 Tbsp) – Boosts the flavor with its spicy kick; any preferred hot sauce works or adjust to lower the heat.
These Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings are not just a recipe; they’re an invitation to gather around the table and indulge in deliciousness. Get ready to impress your family and friends!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
Clean your organic chicken wings under cold running water and pat them dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, combine the smoked paprika, sea salt, and On Everything blend to make a seasoning mixture. Add the wings to the bowl and marinate them for 10-15 minutes, or ideally, overnight in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
Step 2: Set Up Your Dredging Station
While the wings are marinating, prepare your dredging station. In one bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, smoked paprika, On Everything blend, and red pepper flakes. In a separate bowl, whisk together the large eggs, almond milk, and hot sauce for your wet mixture. Place the cornstarch in another bowl, ready for the crispy coating of your Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings.
Step 3: Coat the Wings
Begin the dredging process for your chicken wings. First, coat each wing in cornstarch, ensuring it’s evenly covered. Next, dip the cornstarch-coated wing into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the wing in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating well. Lay the coated wings on a plate and repeat with all wings.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven, pour in 3-4 cups of vegetable oil and heat over medium-low until it reaches 350-375°F. Use a kitchen thermometer for precise temperature control, as maintaining the right heat is vital for achieving that perfect crunch. Once the oil is hot, it’s time to start frying your crispy wings.
Step 5: Fry the Wings
Carefully add the coated chicken wings to the hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can hinder crispiness. Fry each batch for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use tongs to turn the wings halfway through cooking for even browning, ensuring that each wing is perfectly crisp.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once fried, transfer the golden wings to a wire rack to drain excess oil, allowing them to maintain their crispy texture. Repeat the frying process until all wings are cooked. Serve your Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese, and enjoy them alongside classic sides for a delightful meal.
What to Serve with Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings
Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings are a delightful centerpiece for your next gathering, enticing everyone to dig in with their bold flavor and satisfying crunch.
- Celery and Carrot Sticks: These crisp veggies provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy wings, acting as a cooling crunch that balances the heat beautifully.
- Homemade Ranch Dressing: A classic accompaniment, the creamy tang of ranch complements the wings perfectly, offering a dip that everyone will love.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness creates an enticing flavor duo, while the crispy texture pairing enhances the overall crunch experience.
- Coleslaw: A creamy, tangy slaw adds brightness and crunch that pairs harmoniously with the spicy, crispy wings, creating a delightful textural contrast.
- Biscuit Bites: Fluffy and buttery, these warm bites serve as a perfect canvas to soak up any leftover sauce and balance the spiciness.
- Craft Beer or Lemonade: A cold craft beer elevates the experience, cutting through the spice, while a fresh homemade lemonade offers a sweet, citrusy balance to the dish.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky flavors enhance the overall barbecue experience, while the juiciness of the corn adds hydration amidst the spicy bite.
- Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, a decadent, gooey chocolate lava cake provides a sweet contrast that’s sure to satisfy those with a sweet tooth after the spicy wings.
- Watermelon Salad: Combining sweet, juicy watermelon with feta and mint allows for a refreshing palate cleanser between wings, perfect for summer gatherings.
- Pineapple Salsa: This zesty salsa offers a tropical twist that plays well off the wing’s heat, providing a burst of sweetness with each bite.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings
Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure they’re completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze wings in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes or use an air fryer to restore that crispy texture of your crispy spicy fried chicken wings.
Refreshing Tip: To avoid sogginess, do not microwave, as this can compromise the crunchiness of the outer coating.
Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings Variations
Feel free to get creative with these variations that will elevate your homemade wings!
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Baked Wings: Lightly toss with oil and bake at 425°F for 40-45 minutes for a healthier alternative. They’ll still be deliciously crispy.
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Air-Fried Wings: Cook in an air fryer at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway for an ultra-crispy delight. Perfect when you want to skip the oil!
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Gluten-Free: Swap in a gluten-free flour blend while making sure all other ingredients are gluten-free compliant. Everyone can enjoy a crunchy bite!
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Spice Adjustments: Use less hot sauce for milder wings or amp it up with extra red pepper flakes for those who crave more heat.
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Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spice blends! Try a lemon pepper seasoning for a tangy twist that still keeps the wings crispy.
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Crispy Coating: For an added crunch, mix in crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs to your flour coating. This gives an extra layer of delightful texture.
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Zesty Ranch Twist: Add ranch seasoning to the dredging mixture for a tangy flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the spiciness.
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Serve with Dips: Create a flavor buffet by serving these wings alongside sauces like creamy blue cheese, tangy honey garlic, or classic ranch. They’ll be a hit at any gathering!
When you’re in the mood for more flavor-packed chicken adventures, check out my Bang Bang Chicken recipe or indulge in some Spicy Peanut Chicken Noodles for a truly satisfying meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the wings in the spicy buttermilk brine up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the rich flavors to penetrate deeply. Additionally, you can coat the wings in the dredging mixture and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before frying, ensuring they’re ready to go when you are. Just keep them covered to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, heat your oil and fry the wings as per the original instructions to achieve that perfect crispy texture—you’ll have restaurant-quality wings at your fingertips with minimal hassle!
Expert Tips for Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings
• Perfect Temperature: Maintain oil temperature between 350-375°F for the crispiest wings; a kitchen thermometer simplifies achieving this balance.
• Batch Cooking: Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding, ensuring each wing gets evenly crispy without steaming.
• Rest Before Cooking: Let coated wings rest for 10 minutes before frying. This step enhances the crunchiness you desire in crispy spicy fried chicken wings.
• Dredging Precision: Coat thoroughly in cornstarch first, followed by the egg mixture, then the seasoned flour blend. This three-step dredging creates the perfect crunch.
• Choosing Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust the quantity of red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance; start with less and add more for extra heat if desired.
• Cooling Down: For the best taste experience, serve wings hot from the fryer with cooling dipping sauces to balance the spice.
Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken wings?
When selecting chicken wings, look for plump, fresh, and organic wings. They should have a consistent color without dark spots all over. If you’re opting for frozen wings, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking for the best texture.
What is the best way to store leftover wings?
Store leftover crispy spicy fried chicken wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s important to let them cool completely before sealing to keep them fresh and tasty.
Can I freeze leftover wings?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a zip-top bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat the fried wings to maintain their crispiness?
Reheat your wings in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, or in an air fryer for the best crunch. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the coating soggy. This method will ensure they taste just as good as when they were freshly cooked!
What can I do if the wings aren’t crispy?
If your wings turned out less crispy than desired, it could be due to oil temperature. Ensure your frying oil is at the perfect 350-375°F range—use a thermometer for accuracy. Frying in small batches keeps the temperature steady, so consider this for future batches!
Are these wings suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! You can make these crispy spicy fried chicken wings gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Additionally, you can adjust the level of hot sauce to cater to different spice tolerances, making them adaptable for all your guests.
Crispy Spicy Fried Chicken Wings That Will Ignite Your Tastebuds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Clean your organic chicken wings under cold running water and pat them dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, combine the smoked paprika, sea salt, and On Everything blend to make a seasoning mixture. Add the wings to the bowl and marinate them for 10-15 minutes, or ideally, overnight in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
- While the wings are marinating, prepare your dredging station. In one bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, smoked paprika, On Everything blend, and red pepper flakes. In a separate bowl, whisk together the large eggs, almond milk, and hot sauce for your wet mixture. Place the cornstarch in another bowl, ready for the crispy coating.
- Begin the dredging process. First, coat each wing in cornstarch, then dip it into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, roll the wing in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Lay the coated wings on a plate and repeat with all wings.
- In a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven, heat 3-4 cups of vegetable oil over medium-low until it reaches 350-375°F. Use a kitchen thermometer for precise temperature control.
- Carefully add the coated chicken wings to the hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry each batch for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
- Once fried, transfer the golden wings to a wire rack to drain excess oil. Repeat the frying process until all wings are cooked. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
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