Are you ready to take your taste buds on a joyous journey to the heart of southern comfort? These extra crispy southern fried chicken wings are an absolute delight, perfect for gatherings or a cozy meal at home. With the right crunch and a flavor that’ll have you licking your fingers clean, this recipe is one you’ll revisit—again and again.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings, cleaned and patted dry
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Equipments
- Deep fryer or large pot
- Wire rack
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
How to Make Extra Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Wings – Step By Step
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken wings in a large bowl with the buttermilk, ensuring they’re fully submerged. The buttermilk helps to tenderize the chicken, making it juicy on the inside while you achieve that perfect crunch on the outside. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour or, for best results, overnight.
Step 2: Prepare the Seasoned Flour
In another bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix it thoroughly so that every bite of your fried chicken is packed with flavor. This seasoned flour mixture will be the foundation of your dish’s crispy coating.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Pour the vegetable oil into your fryer or pot, filling it at least halfway. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain a steady temperature, ensuring that your chicken wings fry evenly and achieve their signature crispiness without burning.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken wings from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each wing thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere. Set the wings aside on a wire rack so they can absorb maximum flavor before frying.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully lower the wings into the hot oil using tongs. Fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally until they’re golden brown. Once done, transfer the fried wings back to the wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
How to Serve Extra Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Wings
These chicken wings are best served hot and fresh. Pair them with your favorite southern side dishes like coleslaw, cornbread, or potato salad. For a perfect southern vibe, sweet iced tea or lemonade is the drink of choice. Ensure you have a variety of dipping sauces on hand, too, such as ranch, hot sauce, or honey mustard.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To guarantee ultimate crispiness, patience is key! Allow plenty of time for the wings to rest after coating and between each frying batch. For an additional kick, adjust the cayenne pepper amount to taste. If you find buttermilk unavailable, consider making a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice to regular milk.
High Protein Delight: Zesty and Healthy
This version focuses on enhancing the nutrition profile without sacrificing taste. Opt for a protein-rich flour blend and consider using an air fryer to reduce fat content while keeping that iconic crunch. The marinade could include Greek yogurt in place of buttermilk, elevating the protein content even further while maintaining the authentic southern flavor.
Low Carb Crunch: Keto-Friendly Edition
This keto-friendly version swaps traditional flour for almond or coconut flour to lower carbs without diminishing taste. Baking the chicken instead of frying can further reduce carbs and fats, while staying true to the southern essence with smart seasoning choices. Try incorporating a spicy keto-friendly barbecue sauce to bring an extra zing to your meal!
Storage Instructions
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 200°C (400°F) to retain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this will make the coating soggy.
FAQs
- How do I make my chicken wings extra crispy?
For extra crispiness, ensure your oil is at the correct temperature and avoid overcrowding the fryer. Resting the wings on a wire rack before and after frying helps maintain their crunch.
- Can I use a different marinade for more flavor?
Yes, feel free to customize your marinade. Adding a dash of hot sauce to the buttermilk can infuse more heat into the wings.
- Can I bake these wings instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 40-50 minutes, turning halfway through.
- What’s the best oil for frying chicken wings?
Canola and peanut oil are excellent choices due to their high smoke points, helping achieve an optimal fried texture.
Final Thoughts on These Crispy Southern Delights
Extra crispy southern fried chicken wings are more than just a dish—they’re an experience worth sharing. Whether you’re a home-cooked hero or trying this delicacy for the first time, the process is as enjoyable as the results. Make the magic happen, and don’t forget to share your outcome and discoveries with us!
Extra Crispy Southern Fried Chicken Wings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- chicken wings
- buttermilk
- all-purpose flour
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- paprika
- cayenne pepper
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Marinate the chicken wings in buttermilk for at least 1 hour.
- Mix flour and seasonings in a bowl.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Dredge wings in flour mixture.
- Fry wings for 8-10 minutes until golden.