Introduction
Get ready for the ultimate treat: perfect BBQ chicken wings! This recipe delivers an irresistible combination of crispy skin, a wonderfully sticky glaze, and an explosion of savory-sweet flavor. They are an absolute showstopper for game day, parties, or any casual gathering. We will achieve this deliciousness by frying the wings until golden, coating them in a rich sauce, and then baking them to perfection.
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Wings Recipe
This recipe truly makes the best BBQ chicken wings for several great reasons:
- The texture is undeniably crispy, a result of expertly frying each piece before baking.
- The sauce becomes deliciously sticky and caramelized, clinging perfectly to every wing.
- You will enjoy a fantastic balance of sweet, tangy, and a hint of spicy flavor.
- These wings are an ideal crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to disappear fast at any event.
- The preparation is surprisingly straightforward, making it beginner-friendly and time-saving.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to create these fantastic BBQ chicken wings:
- Canola oil, for frying
- 3 lb. chicken wings, drumettes and flats only
- Kosher salt, to taste
- 18 oz. bottled barbecue sauce
- 1 tbsp. finely chopped chipotles in adobo sauce
- 1/2 tsp. chili powder
Notes & Substitutions
You can use various cooking oils for frying, such as vegetable oil or peanut oil, but canola oil is a great neutral choice. If using whole wings, simply separate them into drumettes and flats at the joint before starting. Feel free to use sea salt or table salt instead of kosher salt, adjusting the amount to taste. When choosing your bottled barbecue sauce, consider if you prefer a sweeter, tangier, or smokier base. For less spice, reduce or omit the chipotles; for more, add extra chili powder or a pinch of cayenne.
Equipment
Gather these essential tools before you begin cooking:
- Heavy pot or Dutch oven (for frying)
- Deep-fry thermometer
- Paper towels (for draining)
- Medium mixing bowl
- Ovenproof baking dish
- Whisk
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make incredible BBQ chicken wings. This recipe focuses on creating the best crispy texture and a beautifully coated finish.
- Prepare Oven and Oil: Preheat your oven to 325℉. Next, pour about 3 inches of canola oil into a heavy pot or Dutch oven. Place the pot over medium-high heat and warm the oil until your deep-fry thermometer registers a steady 375℉. Maintaining this temperature is key for perfectly cooked wings.
- Dry and Fry Wings: Thoroughly pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve a crispy skin. Season the wings generously with kosher salt. Carefully add half of the seasoned wings to the hot oil. Fry these wings until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through, a process that typically takes 5 to 7 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165℉. Once fried, use tongs to remove the wings and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels. Repeat this frying process with the remaining half of the wings, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot.
- Make and Apply Sauce: While the wings rest, prepare your flavorful barbecue sauce. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the bottled barbecue sauce, finely chopped chipotles in adobo sauce, and chili powder until well combined. The chipotles add a smoky, spicy depth that elevates the flavor of these BBQ chicken wings. Once the sauce is ready, add the drained fried wings to the bowl. Toss them gently to ensure every wing is thoroughly coated in the delicious sauce.
- Bake Wings: Transfer the sauced wings to an ovenproof baking dish, spreading them in a single layer if possible. Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes. Look for visual cues: the wings should be heated through, and the sauce should appear brown and bubbling, indicating it’s perfectly caramelized. This final bake sets the sauce and further infuses the chicken with flavor. Serve your crispy, sticky BBQ chicken wings immediately and watch them disappear!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Understanding the culinary science behind achieving a perfectly crisp texture reveals why thoroughly drying the chicken skin is a crucial first step.
- Achieving Crispy Skin: Always pat your wings extremely dry with paper towels before frying. Excess moisture creates steam, preventing the skin from crisping up properly.
- Maintaining Oil Temperature: Use a deep-fry thermometer religiously. If the oil is too cool, the wings become greasy. If too hot, they burn before cooking through.
- Avoiding Overcrowding: Fry wings in small batches. Overcrowding the pot lowers the oil temperature significantly, leading to soggy rather than crispy results.
- Perfectly Caramelized Sauce: Bake the sauced wings until the sauce is visibly bubbling and slightly thickened. This process creates that desirable sticky, glossy finish on your BBQ chicken wings.
- Adjusting Spice Level: To increase the heat, add another 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper. For a milder flavor, use less chipotle in adobo or omit it entirely.
To ensure food safety, the U.S. Department of Agriculture provides clear guidelines on the minimum internal temperature for cooked poultry.
- Ensuring Cooked Through: Chicken wings are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165℉. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the thickest part of the wing.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
Serving Suggestions
These delicious BBQ chicken wings pair perfectly with classic accompaniments. Serve them alongside cool ranch or tangy blue cheese dressing for dipping. Crisp celery sticks and carrot sticks also offer a refreshing crunch. They are fantastic as part of a larger spread with other game day appetizers like crispy buffalo wings, loaded potato skins or jalapeño poppers.
Storage
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container. Make sure they are completely cool before refrigerating. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating
For best results and to maintain crispiness, reheat your BBQ chicken wings in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid using a microwave for reheating, as it can make them rubbery and less appealing.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by increasing the amount of chipotles in adobo or by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Honey Garlic: For a different flavor profile, swap out some of the BBQ sauce for honey and minced garlic.
- Lemon Pepper: Instead of the barbecue sauce, toss the fried wings generously with lemon pepper seasoning for a zesty, bright flavor.
- Asian Inspired: Create an exciting twist by using a sauce made with soy sauce, fresh grated ginger, minced garlic, and a drizzle of sesame oil.
Nutrition Information
(Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Total Fat | 35g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 120mg |
| Sodium | 850mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Total Sugars | 15g |
| Protein | 24g |
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands, cooking methods, and portion sizes. Please consider this as a general guide.
FAQ
How do you make BBQ chicken wings crispy?
The key to crispy wings is patting them very dry before frying and then frying them in batches in oil at a consistent 375℉. This initial fry creates a perfect crunchy exterior.
Can I bake these wings instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them. Toss the raw, seasoned wings with a little oil and bake at 400℉ until cooked and crispy, then toss in the sauce and bake again briefly. The texture will differ from fried BBQ chicken wings.
What is the best BBQ sauce for wings?
The best sauce is subjective, but look for a high-quality bottled barbecue sauce you enjoy. Consider options that are sweet, tangy, or smoky to complement the chicken.
Can I prepare these wings ahead of time?
You can fry the wings ahead of time and refrigerate them. When ready to serve, toss them in sauce and bake as directed to heat through and caramelize the sauce.
How do I know when the chicken wings are fully cooked?
Chicken wings are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165℉. Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone.
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Always thaw frozen chicken wings completely in the refrigerator before using them. Ensure they are thoroughly patted dry before frying to prevent oil splattering and to achieve crispiness.
Conclusion
You now have the ultimate recipe for achieving perfectly crispy, deliciously sticky, and incredibly flavorful BBQ chicken wings. This guide empowers you to create a dish that is sure to be the star of any gathering. With straightforward steps and helpful tips, even beginners can master these delightful wings. Don’t wait for a special occasion; whip up a batch for your next game day or family meal. Enjoy every bite of these irresistible, saucy chicken wings!