If you’re craving a finger-licking treat that’s crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor, look no further than Southern Fried Chicken Wings. This classic delight is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for parties, game nights, or simply indulging in a soul-satisfying meal. In this blog, we’ll walk you through all the steps and secrets to mastering this quintessential Southern dish.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings, cut into flats and drumettes
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Deep fryer or large skillet
- Tongs
- Paper towels
- Wire rack
How to Make Southern Fried Chicken Wings – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken.
Start by rinsing your chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This removes any surface moisture which helps the flour adhere better during the dredging process.
Step 2: Marinate in Buttermilk.
In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings and buttermilk. Ensure each wing is well-coated and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. The acid in the buttermilk helps tenderize the meat, resulting in juicy, flavorful wings.
Step 3: Prepare the Coating.
In another bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. This blend of spices will infuse your chicken with a rich, savory taste and a beautiful golden-brown crust.
Step 4: Dredging the Wings.
Remove the wings from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dip each wing into the flour mixture, making sure they are evenly coated. For extra crunch, you can double-dip by returning the wings to the buttermilk and then again into the flour mixture.
Step 5: Heat the Oil.
Pour vegetable oil into your deep fryer or skillet, enough to cover the wings completely. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). You can test the heat by dropping a small piece of batter; it should sizzle and float to the surface.
Step 6: Fry the Chicken.
Gently place the wings into the hot oil using tongs to avoid splashes. Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature, for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, then transfer to a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve Southern Fried Chicken Wings
Serve your Southern Fried Chicken Wings hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or spicy buffalo. They are fantastic alongside classic Southern sides such as coleslaw, potato salad, or cornbread.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, here are a few tips to ensure perfectly crispy Southern Fried Chicken Wings:
- Keep the oil hot: A consistent oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F ensures the chicken cooks evenly without absorbing excess oil.
- Use a thermometer: A kitchen thermometer helps maintain the right frying temperature, preventing undercooked or burnt wings.
- Patience in marination: Though an hour is sufficient, marinating overnight can significantly enhance flavors.
Heightened Proteins with Crunch!
Looking to amp up the protein in your Southern Fried Chicken Wings? You can swap the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a mix of protein powder and flour. This not only increases the protein content but also adds a nutty texture that complements the spices beautifully.
The addition of ground flaxseed to the coating brings about a nutritional boost without compromising on the beloved crispiness. Serve with a protein-packed Greek yogurt dipping sauce for an even healthier touch.
Low Carb Delights – Southern Fried Wonders!
Cutting down on carbs doesn’t mean skimping on flavor or texture! Use pork rind crumbs or almond flour as a coating instead of traditional flour. This low-carb alternative gives your wings a robust flavor while maintaining that desired crunch.
With the keto-friendly ingredients adding only subtle sweetness, indulge in these scrumptious wings without any guilt. Pair it with low-carb sides like roasted Brussels sprouts or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
To store leftover Southern Fried Chicken Wings, let them cool to room temperature and transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to bring back that crispy texture.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken wings? Yes, but ensure they are thoroughly defrosted and patted dry before marinating in buttermilk.
- What’s the best oil for frying chicken? Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are great for frying because of their high smoke points.
- Can I bake instead of fry? While baking won’t yield the same crispiness, it’s possible. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway.
- How can I make these spicy? Add more cayenne pepper or mix in some hot sauce with the buttermilk for a spicy kick.
- Is there a gluten-free option? Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Southern Fried Chicken Wings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- chicken wings
- buttermilk
- all-purpose flour
- paprika
- garlic powder
- cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper
- Vegetable oil
Instructions
Steps
- Rinse chicken wings and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, marinate chicken wings with buttermilk in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper in another bowl.
- Dredge marinated chicken in the flour mixture; double coat for extra crunch, if desired.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the chicken wings in batches for 8-10 minutes until crispy and golden.