Spicy Chicken Wings Recipe

Spicy Chicken Wings are a flavorful, fiery treat that everyone loves. Whether you’re hosting a party, tailgating, or just craving something bold and spicy, these wings are guaranteed to be a hit. With a crispy exterior and a kick of heat, these wings are coated in a delicious blend of spices and sauces that will leave you reaching for more. The recipe is simple to make, and you can easily adjust the level of heat to suit your preference, from mild to extra spicy.

The combination of spices and heat makes these wings a fantastic appetizer or main dish. Serve them at your next gathering, or enjoy them as a satisfying snack while watching your favorite game. Either way, these Spicy Chicken Wings will deliver flavor with every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Balance of Heat and Flavor

These wings are the perfect balance of spice and flavor. The hot sauce, spices, and seasonings combine to create a deliciously tangy and spicy glaze that complements the juicy chicken perfectly.

2. Simple and Quick to Make

With just a few ingredients and an easy preparation process, these spicy wings can be ready in under an hour. They’re perfect for when you need a quick and delicious meal or snack.

3. Customizable Spice Level

Whether you like it mild or extra hot, you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Add more hot sauce for extra heat, or use a milder sauce for a subtler kick.

4. Crispy Texture

Thanks to the baking method, these wings come out of the oven perfectly crispy on the outside, with tender, juicy meat on the inside—just like wings from your favorite restaurant.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Spicy chicken wings are perfect for game days, parties, or casual weeknight dinners. They’re a crowd-pleaser that works for almost any occasion.

Ingredients

  • Chicken wings (whole or separated into drumettes and flats)
  • Olive oil (for coating)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • Paprika
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Ground cayenne pepper (for heat)
  • Hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or your favorite brand)
  • Honey (for sweetness)
  • Vinegar (optional, for added tang)
  • Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Variations

  • Sweet and Spicy Wings: Add a bit of honey or maple syrup to the hot sauce to create a sweet and spicy flavor combination.
  • Lemon Pepper Wings: Toss the wings in lemon pepper seasoning for a citrusy twist to the spice.
  • BBQ Spicy Wings: Add your favorite barbecue sauce to the hot sauce mixture for a smoky, sweet kick.
  • Asian-inspired Wings: Use soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a bit of sriracha for a spicy, Asian-style wing glaze.
  • Buffalo-style Wings: For a more classic buffalo flavor, use a traditional buffalo sauce made with hot sauce and melted butter.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help the wings crisp up nicely.

Step 2: Prepare the Wings

If your wings are whole, separate them into drumettes and flats. Pat the wings dry with paper towels to ensure they get crispy while baking. Drizzle them with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Toss the wings to coat evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Wings

Place the seasoned wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through cooking, until the wings are golden and crispy on the outside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

While the wings are baking, prepare the spicy sauce. In a small saucepan, combine hot sauce, honey, and vinegar (if using). Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until it’s well combined and heated through. Taste the sauce, and adjust the sweetness or heat by adding more honey or hot sauce if needed.

Step 5: Coat the Wings

Once the wings are cooked, remove them from the oven and place them in a large bowl. Pour the spicy sauce over the wings and toss to coat them evenly.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the coated wings to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and serve with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese, if desired. Enjoy immediately!

Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Pat the Wings Dry: Patting the wings dry before baking ensures they get a crispy exterior.
  • Use a Wire Rack: Baking the wings on a wire rack (placed over a baking sheet) allows the air to circulate around the wings, making them crispier on all sides.
  • Adjust Spice to Your Preference: If you like it spicier, add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne or opt for a milder hot sauce.
  • Double the Sauce: If you like extra sauce to dip your wings in, feel free to double the amount of sauce in the recipe.
  • Grill Option: If you prefer to grill your wings, cook them over medium heat on the grill, flipping occasionally, until they’re crispy and cooked through. Then toss them in the sauce.

How to Serve

Spicy chicken wings are perfect on their own, but you can pair them with a variety of sides to make a complete meal. Serve with crunchy celery and carrot sticks for a classic wing pairing. A side of ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce helps to cool the heat. You can also serve these wings with fries, potato wedges, or a refreshing salad to balance the spice.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover spicy chicken wings can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before storing.

Freezing

To freeze, place the baked wings (without sauce) in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the wings to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake the frozen wings at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, then toss them in the sauce.

Reheating

Reheat leftover wings in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen wings?

Yes, you can use frozen wings. Just be sure to thaw them before cooking for even cooking results.

2. Can I make these wings in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the wings and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

3. How do I make the wings extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispy wings, bake them on a wire rack, and ensure they’re fully dry before seasoning.

4. Can I use other types of hot sauce?

Absolutely! You can use any hot sauce that you prefer—sriracha, buffalo sauce, or even a sweet chili sauce for a different flavor.

5. How spicy are these wings?

The spice level can vary depending on the hot sauce and cayenne pepper used. Start with a mild hot sauce for less heat, and adjust based on your preference.

6. Can I grill the wings instead of baking them?

Yes, you can grill the wings over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until they’re crispy and cooked through.

7. Can I make these wings on the stovetop?

Yes, you can cook the wings on the stovetop in a hot skillet with oil. Make sure to cook them in batches and toss them in the sauce once they’re crispy.

8. How do I know when the wings are done?

The wings should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

9. Can I double the sauce recipe?

Yes, you can double the sauce if you like your wings extra saucy or for dipping purposes.

10. Can I make these wings without honey?

Yes, you can make the wings without honey for a spicier, tangier flavor, or substitute with brown sugar or maple syrup.

Conclusion

These Spicy Chicken Wings are the perfect combination of heat, flavor, and crispy texture, making them an irresistible snack or meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a savory treat, these wings are sure to satisfy your taste buds. With a customizable spice level and simple ingredients, they’re an easy, crowd-pleasing option that’s always a hit. Enjoy them with your favorite sides and sauces, and prepare for the compliments to roll in!

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Spicy Chicken Wings Recipe


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  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings (about 810 wings per person) 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Spicy Chicken Wings are the perfect balance of crispy, tender, and fiery! Coated in a flavorful blend of spices and hot sauce, they’re perfect for game day, parties, or any occasion when you crave a little heat. With a tangy kick and a satisfying crunch, these wings are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves bold flavors!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Wings:

  • 2 pounds chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Spicy Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or your preferred brand)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon honey (for a touch of sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra depth)

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top.
  • Prepare the Chicken Wings:
    Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This helps them get crispy when baked. Place them in a large bowl, and drizzle with olive oil. Toss the wings to coat, then season with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the wings are evenly coated.
  • Bake the Wings:
    Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden and crispy. You can also broil them for 2-3 minutes at the end to get extra crispiness on top.
  • Make the Spicy Sauce:
    While the wings are baking, combine the hot sauce, butter, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and cumin in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth. Let the sauce simmer for a couple of minutes, then remove from heat.
  • Coat the Wings:
    Once the wings are baked, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the spicy sauce over the wings and toss until they are evenly coated with the sauce.
  • Serve:
    Serve the spicy chicken wings immediately, with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing, and celery or carrot sticks for dipping. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Adjust the level of heat by adding more or less cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or hot sauce to the sauce.
  • You can also fry the wings instead of baking them for an extra crispy texture, but baking is a healthier option.
  • For extra flavor, marinate the wings in the seasoning mix for 30 minutes before baking.
  • These wings can be made in advance and reheated in the oven for about 10-15 minutes.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Main Dish, Game Day Food
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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