There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried chicken wings, and this fried chicken wings recipe will become your go-to method for creating restaurant-quality wings at home. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, planning a family dinner, or simply craving that irresistible combination of crispy skin and juicy meat, these wings deliver every single time.
What makes this recipe truly special is the foolproof technique that ensures maximum crispiness while keeping the meat incredibly tender and flavorful. Unlike complicated methods that require special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients, this crispy fried chicken wings recipe uses simple pantry staples and a straightforward approach that even beginner cooks can master. The secret lies in the double-coating method and precise temperature control, which creates that coveted golden-brown exterior that shatters at first bite.
Perfect for any occasion, these wings are guaranteed crowd-pleasers that will have everyone asking for your secret. The best part? You can have them ready from start to finish in under an hour, making them ideal for both planned gatherings and spontaneous cravings.
Recipe Information
- Difficulty: Easy
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Resting Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 people (24 wings)
- Estimated Cost: Affordable
Ingredients for the Best Fried Chicken Wings
For the Wings:
- 3 lbs chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Wet Coating:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Frying:
- 6-8 cups vegetable oil (or peanut oil)
- Additional salt for seasoning
Equipment and Utensils Required
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer
- Candy thermometer or digital thermometer
- Large mixing bowls (2-3 bowls)
- Wire cooling racks
- Paper towels
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Recipe Preparation: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness. Remove any excess moisture, as water is the enemy of crispy skin. Season the wings lightly with salt and let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while you prepare the coating stations.
Step 2: Set Up Your Coating Stations
Create your breaded chicken wings assembly line by setting up three stations. In the first bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, hot sauce, and salt until well combined. In the second bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all seasonings.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour oil into your heavy-bottomed pot, ensuring it’s at least 3 inches deep but leaving 3-4 inches of space at the top to prevent overflow. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) using a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. Maintaining proper oil temperature is essential for this deep fried chicken wings recipe to achieve the perfect texture.
Step 4: First Coating Process
Working with 6-8 wings at a time, dip each wing into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Then roll the wing in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Place coated wings on a wire rack and repeat until all wings are coated.
Step 5: Double Coating for Extra Crispiness
For the ultimate crispy fried chicken wings, dip the flour-coated wings back into the buttermilk mixture, then coat again in the flour mixture. This double-coating technique is what separates good wings from extraordinary ones, creating layers that result in maximum crunchiness.
Step 6: Fry the Wings
Carefully lower 6-8 wings into the hot oil using tongs. Don’t overcrowd the pot, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy wings. Fry for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. The wings should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a beautiful golden-brown color.
Step 7: Drain and Season
Remove the fried wings from oil using tongs or a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels. Immediately season with salt while they’re still hot – this helps the seasoning stick better. Repeat the frying process with remaining wings, always ensuring the oil returns to 350°F between batches.
Chef’s Tips, Tricks, and Variations
Pro Tips for Perfect Wings:
The key to mastering this best way to fry chicken wings lies in temperature control and patience. Never rush the process by increasing the heat, as this will burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. If you notice the coating browning too quickly, lower the temperature slightly.
For an interesting twist on the traditional method, try the baked then fried chicken wings technique. Start by baking the coated wings at 400°F for 20 minutes, then finish them in oil heated to 375°F for just 3-4 minutes. This method reduces overall frying time while still achieving incredible crispiness.
Flavor Variations:
Transform your basic fried wings recipe by experimenting with different spice blends. Add 2 teaspoons of Chinese five-spice for an Asian-inspired flavor, or incorporate 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning mix for a tangy twist. For heat lovers, increase the cayenne pepper or add 1 teaspoon of chipotle powder for a smoky kick.
How to Prepare Chicken Wings for Maximum Flavor:
Marinate your wings in buttermilk for 2-4 hours before coating for extra tenderness and flavor penetration. This technique, often used in Southern cooking, breaks down proteins and ensures juicy meat every time.
Storage and Reheating:
Store leftover wings in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and restore crispiness, place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet and heat in a 400°F oven for 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this will make the coating soggy.
Alternative Cooking Methods
How to Bake Crispy Chicken Wings:
For a healthier alternative, you can create oven fried crispy baked chicken wings that rival traditional fried versions. Preheat your oven to 450°F, place coated wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet, and bake for 45-50 minutes, flipping once halfway through. The high heat and wire rack allow hot air to circulate around the wings, creating crispy skin without oil.
Air Fryer Method:
Cook wings in an air fryer at 380°F for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket every 10 minutes for even cooking. This method produces excellent results with significantly less oil.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These versatile wings pair beautifully with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, mac and cheese, or crispy french fries. For a lighter option, serve alongside a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. Don’t forget the essential accompaniments: celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your choice of dipping sauces like blue cheese, ranch, or honey mustard.
Consider setting up a wing sauce bar with options like Buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, honey garlic, or sweet and sour sauce, allowing guests to customize their experience.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 4 wings)
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 680mg
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Conclusion
This fried chicken wings recipe delivers everything you want in the perfect wing: incredibly crispy exterior, juicy and flavorful meat, and that satisfying crunch that keeps you coming back for more. The combination of the double-coating technique and precise temperature control ensures consistent results every single time you make them.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe provides all the guidance you need to create restaurant-quality wings in your own kitchen. The versatility of the basic recipe means you can adapt it to suit any taste preference or dietary requirement while maintaining that essential crispy texture.
We’d love to hear about your wing-making adventures! Have you tried this recipe? What variations did you create? Did you discover any new tips or tricks along the way? Please leave a comment below and share your experience with fellow wing enthusiasts. Don’t forget to share photos of your crispy creations on social media – we love seeing your culinary successes!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to fry chicken wings for maximum crispiness?
The secret to ultra-crispy wings lies in the double-coating method and maintaining oil temperature at exactly 350°F. First coat the wings in seasoned flour, dip in buttermilk, then coat again in flour before frying. This creates multiple layers that result in incredible crunchiness.
Can I make baked then fried chicken wings for a lighter option?
Absolutely! Start by baking coated wings at 400°F for 20 minutes, then finish them in 375°F oil for 3-4 minutes. This baked then fried chicken wings method reduces oil absorption while still achieving that coveted crispy exterior.
How do I prepare chicken wings properly before cooking?
How to prepare chicken wings correctly starts with patting them completely dry with paper towels to remove all moisture. Separate them into flats and drumettes if not already done, then season lightly with salt and let them come to room temperature for 10 minutes before coating.
What’s the difference between regular fried wings and oven fried crispy baked chicken wings?
Oven fried crispy baked chicken wings are cooked at high heat (450°F) on a wire rack, allowing hot air to circulate and create crispy skin without oil. While traditional fried wings cook faster and may have slightly more crunch, baked wings offer a healthier alternative with excellent results.
How can I make my breaded chicken wings extra flavorful?
For the most flavorful breaded chicken wings, marinate them in buttermilk for 2-4 hours before coating. Additionally, ensure your flour mixture contains a good balance of spices including garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and herbs. Don’t forget to season immediately after frying while the wings are still hot.
Ready to make these incredible wings? Gather your ingredients and get ready for the most satisfying crunch you’ve ever experienced! Your taste buds will thank you.