Welcome to the ultimate guide for making Kentucky Fried Chicken hot wings that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Whether it’s game day or just a craving for something spicy and crispy, this recipe is your ticket to flavor town.
Why This Recipe Works
- The secret blend of spices gives these wings their signature KFC flavor.
- Double frying ensures they’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
- The homemade hot sauce glaze adds the perfect amount of heat and sweetness.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split at joints, tips removed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup hot sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Equipment Needed
- Deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot
- Thermometer
- Large mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Paper towels
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Wings
In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken wings, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results. This marination not only tenderizes the wings but also infuses them with flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Flour Coating
In another bowl, mix the flour with the remaining spices. This dry mixture will give the wings their crispy exterior. Make sure to mix well to evenly distribute the spices.
Step 3: Coat the Wings
Remove the wings from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Dredge each wing in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere. Place on a wire rack to set for about 10 minutes. This step ensures the coating sticks well during frying.
Step 4: First Fry
Heat oil in your deep fryer or pot to 325°F. Fry the wings in batches for about 8 minutes, until lightly golden. This initial fry cooks the wings through without over-browning the coating.
Step 5: Second Fry
Increase the oil temperature to 375°F. Fry the wings again for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. This second fry gives them that signature crunch.
Step 6: Glaze the Wings
In a saucepan, combine hot sauce and honey. Simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Toss the fried wings in the glaze until evenly coated. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Tips and Tricks
For extra crispy wings, let them sit in the fridge for an hour after coating with flour before the first fry. This helps the coating adhere better. Always use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature; fluctuations can lead to uneven cooking. If you prefer less heat, adjust the amount of hot sauce in the glaze or serve it on the side.
Recipe Variations
- For a smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the flour mixture.
- Swap honey for maple syrup in the glaze for a different kind of sweetness.
- Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the glaze for a tangy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these wings instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F for about 40 minutes, flipping halfway through. However, they won’t be as crispy as fried wings.
How can I make the wings less spicy?
Reduce the amount of hot sauce in the glaze or mix it with melted butter to temper the heat. You can also skip the glaze altogether and serve with a milder sauce.
Can I use frozen wings?
It’s best to use thawed wings for even cooking and better coating adherence. If you must use frozen, thaw them completely in the fridge first.
Summary
This Kentucky Fried Chicken hot wings recipe delivers crispy, spicy, and utterly delicious wings perfect for any occasion. With a few tips and tricks, you can master the art of frying and glazing to impress your friends and family.
