Crispy Fried Chicken Wings

When I think of good old-fashioned comfort food, fried chicken is one of the first dishes that comes to mind. There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a crispy, golden chicken wing. Pair it with red beans and rice, collard greens, and buttery cornbread, and you have a meal that’s hard to beat! In this post, I’m excited to share my easy recipe for old-fashioned crispy fried chicken wings. It’s simple, but the key is in the brining. Although waiting for the brine can be a bit of a challenge, it’s crucial for achieving incredibly moist and flavorful chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a classic take on fried chicken wings, offering the perfect combination of a crispy exterior and juicy interior. It’s a straightforward method that relies on a few simple ingredients, making it accessible for any home cook. The brining process ensures each bite is packed with flavor, while the seasoned flour coating gives the wings that irresistible crunch.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large bowl or container for brining
  • Heavy cast iron skillet or large frying pan
  • Paper towels
  • Large freezer bag

Ingredients

Brine

  • 4 cups cold water
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 2 tbsp sugar

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

  1. Wash the chicken under cool water, then place it in a large bowl or container.
  2. Combine 4 cups cold water, 1 tbsp salt, and 2 tbsp sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar dissolve.
  3. Pour the brine over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for about 4 hours.
  4. Drain the brine from the chicken without rinsing it.
  5. Season the chicken with poultry seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
  6. Mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and 1/2 tsp salt in a large freezer bag.
  7. Add the chicken wings to the bag and shake until they’re evenly coated with the flour mixture.
  8. Shake off any excess flour from the chicken.
  9. Heat the corn oil in a large skillet over medium heat for about 10 minutes.
  10. Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil and fry until golden brown.
  11. Remove the chicken and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  12. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Success

Ensure the chicken is completely dry before seasoning; this helps the coating adhere better. Don’t rush the brining process; it’s essential for achieving juicy wings. Monitor the oil temperature to avoid burning or undercooking the chicken.

Additional Tips or Variations

For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. You can also experiment with different spices like cumin or chili powder to personalize the flavor. If you prefer baked wings, preheat the oven to 400°F and bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 350 | Protein: 20g | Carbohydrates: 15g | Fat: 25g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  • Can I prepare the wings in advance? Yes, you can brine them overnight for even better flavor.
  • What’s the best oil for frying? Corn oil is great due to its high smoke point, but you can also use vegetable or canola oil.
  • How do I store leftovers? Keep leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making these crispy fried chicken wings as much as I do. They’re perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking!

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