These Cajun garlic chicken wings are packed with flavor! Coated in a spicy seasoning and baked to crispy perfection, they make a tasty snack or meal.
Making these wings is easy, and they fill the kitchen with a wonderful aroma. I love serving them with a cool dipping sauce—it’s the perfect match for the zesty kick! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh wings are best for this recipe. You can use frozen wings, but be sure to thaw them properly first. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using chicken drumsticks instead!
Seasonings: Smoked paprika gives these wings a nice deep flavor. If you don’t have it, feel free to substitute regular paprika. For a milder kick, you can reduce or leave out the cayenne pepper.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness to the wings and helps the seasoning stick. Avocado oil is a great alternative if you prefer something with a higher smoke point!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Crispy Chicken Wings?
Getting that crispy skin is key for delicious wings! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the oven: Don’t skip this step! A hot oven helps the skin render out the fat and crisp up.
- Use a wire rack: This elevates the wings, allowing hot air to circulate around them and avoid steam, which leads to soggy skin.
- Coat evenly: Make sure each wing is well-coated with the oil and seasoning mixture. This not only flavors the wings but also helps with crispiness.
- Flip halfway through: Turning the wings ensures they cook evenly on all sides, helping to achieve that perfect crunch.
With these tips in mind, you’ll enjoy perfectly crispy wings every time! Happy cooking!
Cajun Garlic Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon fresh minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic paste)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Optional: ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 40-45 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at a total of about an hour to enjoy these delicious wings. Perfect for a quick dinner or party snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare to Bake:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy clean-up, then place a wire rack on top. This will help the wings get nice and crispy!
2. Mix the Seasoning:
In a large bowl, pour in the olive oil. Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, and minced garlic. Mix everything together to form a tasty Cajun garlic seasoning mix.
3. Coat the Wings:
Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss them well to ensure every wing gets coated in that delicious seasoning mixture.
4. Arrange the Wings for Baking:
Lay the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack. This will ensure they bake evenly and stay crispy.
5. Bake the Wings:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Be sure to turn the wings halfway through baking to make them extra crispy!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, take the wings out of the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping—enjoy!
Dig into your crispy, perfectly-spiced Cajun Garlic Chicken Wings and savor every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. The best way to thaw chicken wings is to leave them in the refrigerator overnight or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge them in cold water for a quick thaw.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes, you can customize the spice level to your preference! If you like it milder, simply reduce the cayenne pepper or leave it out entirely. On the other hand, if you enjoy more heat, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne or add a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix.
What is the Best Way to Store Leftover Wings?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the wings on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep them crispy.
Can I Make These Wings Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the wings and coat them with the seasoning mix a few hours in advance and keep them in the refrigerator. Just bake them right before serving for the best flavor and texture!
