When it comes to game day snacks or a fun night in, nothing quite hits the spot like crispy, spicy hot wings. This Hot Wings Recipe delivers a perfect blend of crunch and heat that your friends and family will rave about. With just the right amount of spice and a finger-licking sauce, these wings are sure to be a hit at any gathering. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!
Why This Recipe Is Reliable
This hot wings recipe is not only simple but also incredibly reliable. Using basic pantry ingredients and a straightforward method, you can create wings that are consistently crispy and full of flavor. The combination of flour, cornstarch, and baking powder ensures that the wings come out perfectly crunchy, while the seasoning mix provides a delicious depth of flavor. Plus, it’s customizable to suit your spice tolerance, making it perfect for everyone at the table.
Ingredient Checklist
- 2 1/2 pounds chicken wings, separated into two pieces
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup hot sauce
Hardware & Gadgets
- Large Mixing Bowl – for tossing your wings with the dry ingredients.
- Baking Sheet – to hold the wings while they bake.
- Wire Rack – helps wings crisp up on all sides during baking.
- Meat Thermometer – ensures your wings are cooked to perfection.
- Oven – for baking the wings to a crispy finish.
From Start to Finish: Hot Wings Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key for achieving crispy wings.
Step 2: Prepare the Wings
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Coat the Wings
Add the chicken wings to the bowl with the dry mixture. Toss the wings until they are thoroughly coated. The flour and cornstarch will help create a delightful crunch when baked.
Step 4: Arrange the Wings
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, then place a wire rack on top. Arrange the coated wings in a single layer on the wire rack. This allows for air circulation around the wings, which is critical for getting that perfect crispiness.
Step 5: Bake the Wings
Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. You want them to be golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Prepare the Sauce
While the wings are baking, combine the hot sauce in a small bowl. You can adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your desired spice level. For a little sweetness, you might want to try adding a touch of honey or maple syrup, similar to the flavors in Sticky Honey Sriracha Wings With Garlic Lime Dip.
Step 7: Toss the Wings
Once the wings are done baking and you’ve achieved that lovely crispy exterior, remove them from the oven. Carefully transfer the wings to a clean mixing bowl and pour the hot sauce over them. Toss the wings until they are evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your hot wings immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or blue cheese. They also pair incredibly well with celery sticks. Enjoy every spicy, crunchy bite!
Dietary Customizations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
- Spicy Alternatives: For those who enjoy a different flavor profile, consider using a variety of hot sauces or adding cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Oven-Free Option: For a smoky flavor, you could grill or smoke the wings instead of baking them.
Chef’s Rationale
The magic of this Hot Wings Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role; the cornstarch creates crispiness while the spices add depth. Baking the wings instead of frying them makes this recipe healthier without sacrificing flavor. The ease of preparation allows you to focus on enjoying the company of friends and family rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare), store the wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked wings for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating!
Ask & Learn
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings. Just make sure to thaw them completely before coating and baking them to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with hot wings?
Hot wings are fantastic with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or even a fresh salad. Dipping sauces such as creamy ranch or homemade blue cheese are also popular choices.
How can I make my wings extra crispy?
For extra crispy wings, ensure they are well-coated with the flour mixture and bake them on a wire rack so that air can circulate around them. Preheating the oven is also essential for achieving that perfect crispiness.
Can I make these hot wings in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air frying is a great way to achieve crispy wings. Preheat the air fryer, and cook the wings in batches at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
That’s a Wrap
With this Hot Wings Recipe, you’ve got a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a big game, a party night, or just a casual dinner at home, these wings will undoubtedly steal the show. Crisp, spicy, and utterly satisfying, they invite everyone to dig in and enjoy. So gather your friends, grab some napkins, and get ready to indulge in these irresistible hot wings!
Hot Wings Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
- Add the chicken wings to the bowl with the dry mixture. Toss the wings until they are thoroughly coated.
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the coated wings in a single layer on the wire rack.
- Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
- While the wings are baking, combine the hot sauce in a small bowl.
- Once the wings are done baking, transfer them to a clean mixing bowl and pour the hot sauce over them. Toss until evenly coated.
- Serve your hot wings immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, ensure wings are well-coated and bake on a wire rack.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Grill or smoke wings for a different flavor.
