Spicy Baked Chicken Wings offer a delightful kick and a crispy finish that make them the perfect treat for any gathering, especially if you enjoy a bit of heat. Whether it’s game day, a family picnic, or just a casual get-together, these wings are sure to be a hit.
Fiery and Flavorful Spicy Baked Chicken Wings
The secret to these irresistible wings lies in the brining and marinating processes, which ensure every bite is juicy and rich in flavor. Followed by baking to crispy perfection and tossing in a spicy sauce, these wings bring a mouthwatering combination of textures and tastes that are hard to resist.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus brining overnight)
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Serving: Serves 4-6
Equipment: Large bowl, food processor, baking sheets, parchment paper
Ingredients:
For the Brine:
- 6-8 cups water
- 3-4 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup cilantro, loosely packed
- 4 tablespoons oil
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
For the Spicy Sauce:
- 1 cup Frank’s Hot Sauce
- 1/2 stick butter, melted (optional)
For Serving:
- Celery sticks
- Blue cheese dressing
Directions:
- Brine the Wings:
- In a large bowl, combine the water, kosher salt, and onion powder. Stir until the salt is fully dissolved.
- Clean the chicken wings, removing the tips if necessary. Place the wings in the bowl, ensuring they are completely submerged in the brine. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Drain the wings and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a food processor, blend the cilantro, oil, and garlic to form the marinade.
- Toss the wings in the marinade until they are well-coated.
- Bake the Wings:
- Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- Arrange the wings on the pan, making sure they are not overcrowded; use two pans if necessary to ensure they brown evenly.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then turn the wings over and continue baking for another 15 minutes or until they are crispy and browned.
- Toss with Spicy Sauce:
- In a large bowl, combine the hot sauce and melted butter (if using).
- Add the baked wings to the sauce and toss to coat them thoroughly.
- Serve:
- Serve the wings hot with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing on the side.
These Spicy Baked Chicken Wings are not only bursting with flavor but also offer a healthier alternative to the traditional fried preparation. Enjoy the layers of flavor from the brine, marinade, and spicy sauce, each enhancing the wings to create a truly delicious experience.