New Orleans Chicken Wings

If you’re looking for a flavor-packed dish that brings the taste of New Orleans to your kitchen, these New Orleans Chicken Wings are exactly what you need! This recipe is inspired by some unforgettable wings I enjoyed at the Adelaide Central Markets. They were so delicious that I couldn’t help but recreate them at home.

These wings are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner, a casual family gathering, or even game day. With their bold seasoning and irresistible garlic butter glaze, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: These wings come together quickly with minimal fuss, making them perfect for any cook!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chicken wings! These flavorful bites are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can marinate the wings ahead of time for a hassle-free meal later on.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of Creole seasoning and garlic butter creates an explosion of flavor that will have everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes this recipe even more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these scrumptious New Orleans Chicken Wings:

For the Wings

• 1.25 kg / 2.5 lb chicken wings cut up (wingettes & drumettes)

For the Sauce

• 50g / 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed using a garlic press (or very finely minced using a knife)

For the Seasoning

• 2 tbsp roughly chopped coriander/cilantro or parsley (or sliced green onion for sprinkling, optional)
• 1 1/2 tbsp brown sugar (tightly packed)
• 2 1/2 tsp paprika (regular/sweet)
• 1 1/2 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your wings by trying out these variations:

• Swap the Protein: Try using other types of chicken pieces like drumsticks or thighs if you prefer.
• Change Up the Spice: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or add your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
• Herb Alternatives: Experiment with different herbs like basil or dill instead of coriander/cilantro.
• Add Citrus: A splash of lemon or lime juice can brighten up the flavors beautifully!

How to Make New Orleans Chicken Wings

Step 1: Prep Your Chicken Wings

Start by cutting your chicken wings into wingettes and drumettes if they aren’t pre-cut. It’s important to do this as it helps them cook evenly. Rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Drying helps achieve that crispy skin we all love!

Step 2: Create the Flavorful Marinade

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add in the crushed garlic and sauté until fragrant but not browned—this should only take about a minute. This step infuses the butter with garlicky goodness that will coat your wings.

Step 3: Mix in Your Spices

Combine brown sugar, paprika, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Mixing these spices together before adding them to the wings ensures an even distribution of flavor throughout each piece.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

In a large mixing bowl, toss your chicken wings with the melted garlic butter and spice mixture until they’re well-coated. Don’t forget to save some butter from the pan for basting later! This step is crucial as it adds depth to each wing’s flavor.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Spread the coated wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer—remember not to crowd them! Bake for about 40-45 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy. Halfway through baking, baste the wings with extra garlic-butter juices from the pan for maximum flavor.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful New Orleans Chicken Wings! They’re sure to be a hit whether you’re serving them at dinner or sharing during game time!

Pro Tips for Making New Orleans Chicken Wings

Making the perfect New Orleans Chicken Wings can be a game-changer for your gatherings or a cozy night in. Here are some tips to ensure your wings are bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection!

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Giving each wing enough space allows them to cook evenly and become crispy. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of bake, resulting in soggy wings.
• Baste during cooking: Halfway through baking, give those wings a good baste with the Creole-garlic-butter juices from the pan. This adds extra flavor and helps achieve that golden-brown finish that everyone loves.
• Use fresh spices: For the best flavor, opt for fresh spices rather than stale ones. Fresh spices pack a punch and elevate the overall taste of your wings, making them memorable.
• Adjust the spice level: Feel free to tweak the cayenne pepper according to your taste preferences. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less and add more incrementally until you achieve your desired kick!
• Let them rest before serving: After baking, let your wings sit for about 5–10 minutes. This helps them firm up a bit and makes for easier handling when serving.

How to Serve New Orleans Chicken Wings

Serving up your New Orleans Chicken Wings is just as important as making them! With a bit of creativity, you can transform these spicy delights into a centerpiece for any meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander or parsley on top right before serving for an aromatic touch.
• Sliced green onions: A bit of color and crunch can enhance the look and taste of your wings.
• Lemon wedges: Offering lemon alongside provides a zesty contrast that brightens up the rich flavors of the wings.

Side Dishes

• Crispy coleslaw: This crunchy salad complements the spicy wings perfectly with its creamy dressing, balancing out their heat.
• Cornbread: A sweet and fluffy cornbread pairs beautifully with spicy dishes, providing a comforting side that everyone will love.
• Sweet potato fries: These offer a deliciously sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the wings while adding some extra nutrients.
• Vegetable sticks with dip: Carrot and celery sticks served with ranch or hummus offer a refreshing crunch that rounds out your meal nicely.

Now you’re ready to impress your friends and family with these flavorful New Orleans Chicken Wings! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This New Orleans Chicken Wings recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, ensuring you have delicious wings ready to go when hunger strikes or when entertaining guests.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the wings to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Allow wings to cool completely.
• Arrange wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen wings to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Spread the wings out on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. For extra crispiness, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about New Orleans Chicken Wings:

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

Yes! Just ensure they are fully thawed before seasoning and baking. This will help them cook evenly.

What makes these New Orleans Chicken Wings special?

The combination of Creole seasoning and garlic butter brings bold flavors that truly capture the essence of New Orleans cuisine.

How do I make my wings extra crispy?

Make sure not to crowd the pan while baking, as this helps them crisp up nicely. Also, basting with the caramelized juices during cooking adds flavor and texture!

Can I use other seasonings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices, but try to keep that Creole flair!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these New Orleans Chicken Wings as much as I do! They’re not just a meal; they’re an experience filled with rich flavors and a hint of adventure. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these wings are sure to impress. Dive into this recipe, savor every bite, and let me know how it turns out for you!