Is there anything more satisfying than a perfectly crispy fried chicken wing? These Crispy Fried Chicken Wings are brined to tender perfection, seasoned with a blend of spices, and fried until golden brown. With a crispy, crunchy coating that’s packed with flavor, these wings are perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a delicious dinner any night of the week. Let’s dive into how to make them your new go-to recipe!
Why You’ll Love These Wings:
- Perfectly Crispy Coating: A mix of flour and cornstarch for maximum crunch.
- Flavor-Packed Brine: Keeps the meat juicy and flavorful, with just the right amount of salt.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Seasonings add depth without overpowering the natural taste of the chicken.
Crispy Fried Chicken Wings Recipe
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes (+ 4 hours brining)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Brine:
- 4 cups cold water
- 1 tbsp salt
- 2 tbsp sugar
For the Chicken Wings:
- 1 lb chicken wings
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 1/2 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 1/2 cups corn oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Brine: In a large bowl, combine 4 cups cold water, 1 tablespoon salt, and 2 tablespoons sugar. Stir until fully dissolved.
- Brine the Chicken: Place the chicken wings in the bowl with the brine, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for about 4 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Drain and Season: After 4 hours, drain the brine but do not rinse the chicken. Pat the wings dry with paper towels, then season with poultry seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Coat the Wings: In a large freezer bag, mix together the flour, cornstarch, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add the seasoned chicken wings, seal the bag, and shake until each piece is evenly coated with the flour mixture. Shake off any excess flour.
- Heat the Oil: Pour the corn oil into a large skillet and heat over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Wings: Carefully place the wings in the hot oil, frying in batches if necessary. Fry each batch for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer the wings to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot, and enjoy the crispy, flavorful goodness!
FAQs
- Can I skip the brining step?
While you can skip it, brining ensures the chicken is extra juicy and flavorful. It’s worth the extra time! - Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. - How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
A small piece of bread dropped in the oil should sizzle and brown in about 60 seconds. - Can I add hot sauce for a spicy kick?
Absolutely! Toss the wings in hot sauce after frying or add cayenne to the seasoning mix.
Tips for the Crispiest Chicken Wings
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature, which keeps the wings crispy.
- Pat the Wings Dry: This ensures the flour coating sticks well.
- Use Fresh Oil: Old oil can affect the flavor and texture, so fresh oil is best for a clean, golden crisp.
These Crispy Fried Chicken Wings are the ultimate comfort food, with a crunch that’s irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, this recipe brings restaurant-quality wings right to your table. Enjoy! 🍗