These Cajun garlic chicken wings are packed with flavor! With a spicy Cajun blend and a buttery garlic sauce, they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—perfect for sharing!
When I make these, I always end up licking my fingers. 😂 They’re great for game night or as a tasty snack any time. Trust me, you won’t want to stop at just one wing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh chicken wings are ideal for this recipe. If you can’t find wings, try using drumsticks instead. They’ll still taste great, but cooking time may vary slightly.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice mix brings the heat! If you’re looking for a milder option, try using Italian seasoning or a mild taco seasoning. You can also make your own by combining paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano.
Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended for better control of saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, olive oil or a plant-based butter is a great substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, minced garlic from a jar works too. Adjust the quantity based on your garlic preference.
How Do I Make the Wings Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy skin is key to making these wings irresistible! Here are a few tips to help you achieve that crispy texture:
- Pat the wings dry with paper towels before seasoning. Moisture can prevent crispiness.
- Using a wire rack allows hot air to circulate around the wings while they bake, helping them crisp up evenly.
- Baking them at a high temperature (400°F) is crucial for achieving that sought-after crisp layer.
- Turn the wings halfway through baking to ensure an even crispiness on all sides.
Cajun Garlic Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, tips removed and separated into flats and drumettes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For Garnishing:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 40-45 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be ready to enjoy these delicious wings in about an hour! Perfect for a snack or game day treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the wire rack so the wings don’t stick.
2. Coat the Wings:
In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, making sure they’re coated evenly. This helps the seasonings stick and promotes crispiness!
3. Season the Wings:
In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the wings and toss to coat them well on all sides. Make sure every wing is covered in that tasty blend!
4. Arrange and Bake:
Place the seasoned wings in a single layer on the prepared wire rack. Bake them in the oven for about 40-45 minutes. Make sure to turn them halfway through so they cook evenly and become crispy all around!
5. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce:
While the wings are baking, let’s make the garlic butter sauce! In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it so the garlic doesn’t burn; you want it fragrant!
6. Toss the Wings:
Once the wings are done baking, carefully transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the wings and toss them well to ensure they’re beautifully coated.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the wings with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve them right away with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side, if you like!
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Cajun garlic chicken wings! They are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh chicken wings for optimal texture and flavor. However, if you only have frozen wings, make sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Do not cook from frozen, as that can lead to uneven cooking.
Can I Make These Wings Spicy?
Absolutely! If you like a bit more heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix or add a splash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to your heat preference!
How to Store Leftover Wings?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them up in the oven for a few minutes to help maintain their crispiness. You can also microwave them, but know this may make the skin softer.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Cajun Garlic Wings?
These wings are perfect on their own, but serving them with ranch or blue cheese dressing adds a creamy balance to the dish. Pair them with celery sticks or carrot sticks for a classic touch!