Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Crispy garlic butter chicken wings are the ultimate snack for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a game day, celebrating a holiday, or just enjoying a cozy night at home, these wings promise a mouthwatering experience. Baked or air-fried to perfection, they feature a delicious dry rub and a simple garlic butter sauce that takes the flavor to new heights. Get ready to impress your guests with this super crispy and flavorful dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer ready in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and spices creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Enjoy them baked in the oven or crisped up in an air fryer—both methods yield fantastic results!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party, family gathering, or casual dinner, these wings fit right in.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice preference—mild or spicy, you decide!

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your crispy garlic butter chicken wings, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Air fryer (optional)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.
• Air fryer: This tool provides an extra-crispy texture without excessive oil.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows for easy mixing of dry ingredients and sauces.
• Measuring spoons: Precision in measuring ingredients guarantees consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Wings

• 2 pounds party chicken wings (908 grams)
• 1 Tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder, (NOT baking soda! (14 grams))
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt, (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (or freshly-ground black pepper)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1-2 pinches of cayenne pepper (to taste)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

• Neutral oil or cooking spray (I use avocado oil)
• 1/4 cup good-quality salted butter (60 grams)
• 1 Tablespoon minced garlic (9 grams)
• 2 Tablespoons chopped chives (6 grams)

For Serving

• Ranch or bleu cheese dressing

How to Make Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key for achieving crispy wings. If using an air fryer, set it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 2: Prepare the Wings

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the baking powder, salt, white pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture.

Step 3: Bake or Air Fry

For Oven:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Place the seasoned wings on the sheet in a single layer.
3. Bake for about 40–50 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

For Air Fryer:
1. Arrange seasoned wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
2. Cook according to your air fryer’s instructions until crispy.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

While the wings are cooking:
1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the salted butter.
2. Stir in minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Remove from heat and add chopped chives.

Once your wings are cooked to perfection, toss them in the garlic butter sauce before serving!

Enjoy these crispy garlic butter chicken wings at your next gathering—they’re sure to be a hit!

How to Serve Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Crispy garlic butter chicken wings are a perfect dish for any gathering. Their rich flavor and delightful crunch make them a crowd-pleaser. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your wing experience.

Classic Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and cool, ranch dressing provides a perfect contrast to the spicy wings.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: For those who enjoy bold flavors, blue cheese adds a tangy element that complements the garlic butter.
• Hot Sauce: If you like it spicy, drizzle some hot sauce over your wings for an extra kick.

Fresh Veggie Platter

• Celery Sticks: Crunchy and refreshing, celery sticks are ideal for dipping in sauces or enjoying on their own.
• Carrot Sticks: Sweet and crunchy carrots provide a nice balance to the savory flavors of the wings.
• Cucumber Slices: Light and hydrating, cucumber slices offer a fresh bite alongside the richness of the wings.

Flavorful Garnishes

• Chopped Chives: Sprinkle freshly chopped chives on top of the wings for a burst of color and mild onion flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon adds zest that brightens up the overall taste of your wings.

How to Perfect Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

To achieve perfect crispy garlic butter chicken wings, focus on these key tips.

• Use Baking Powder: Applying aluminum-free baking powder helps create that coveted crispy skin without frying.
• Pat Dry the Wings: Ensure your wings are dry before seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each wing enough space on the baking sheet or air fryer basket for even cooking and airflow.
• Toss in Sauce After Cooking: Coat your wings with garlic butter sauce after they’re cooked for optimal flavor without compromising crispiness.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your preference, adding more cayenne if you love heat!

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

Pairing side dishes with crispy garlic butter chicken wings can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this delightful dish.

1. French Fries: Crispy fries seasoned with herbs make a classic companion for chicken wings; serve with ketchup or aioli.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the richness of the wings nicely.
3. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges offer hearty satisfaction; bake them alongside your wings for convenience.
4. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is both filling and refreshing—perfect for soaking up all those delicious drippings!
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob provides sweetness that pairs well with spicy chicken flavors.
6. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks are great for mopping up any leftover sauce from your plate!
7. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette dressing helps cut through the richness of the wings while adding freshness.

Enjoy these tips and serving suggestions as you prepare your crispy garlic butter chicken wings!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making crispy garlic butter chicken wings, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using Baking Soda Instead of Baking Powder: Baking soda will not give you the same crispiness as baking powder. Always use aluminum-free baking powder for perfect texture.
• Neglecting to Pat Dry the Wings: Excess moisture can prevent crispiness. Make sure to pat your chicken wings dry with paper towels before seasoning them.
• Skipping the Dry Rub: The dry rub enhances flavor and helps achieve that crispy exterior. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for delicious wings!
• Overcrowding the Cooking Surface: Whether using an oven or air fryer, overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary for even crispness.
• Not Monitoring the Cooking Time: Cooking times can vary based on wing size and cooking method. Keep an eye on your wings and adjust time as needed for perfect doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow wings to cool completely before sealing them in a container.

Freezing Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

• Freeze cooked wings in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Crispy Garlic Butter Chicken Wings

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake wings for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat wings on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid rubbery texture.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making crispy garlic butter chicken wings.

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

How do I make these wings spicier?

You can increase the cayenne pepper in the dry rub or add hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce after tossing your wings.

What is the best dipping sauce for crispy garlic butter chicken wings?

Ranch dressing or bleu cheese dressing pairs wonderfully with these flavorful wings!

Can I make crispy garlic butter chicken wings ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and season the wings ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

How do I know when my chicken wings are done?

Wings should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Final Thoughts

Crispy garlic butter chicken wings are a delightful addition to any gathering! Their versatility allows you to customize flavors easily, whether adding more spice or experimenting with different sauces. Try this recipe today, and impress your friends and family with mouthwatering, crispy goodness!