Spicy Garlic Wings from Buffalo Wild Wings feature tender chicken wings tossed in a bold, zesty garlic-infused spicy sauce, delivering a perfect blend of fiery heat and savory flavor with a crispy finish.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Tongs
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Baking sheet (optional)
- Wire rack (optional)
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Oil for frying
Chicken wings require thorough coating with a seasoned flour mixture containing salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to achieve a flavorful, crispy exterior. The key to the signature spicy garlic sauce is balancing hot sauce, unsalted butter, minced garlic, honey, and soy sauce to provide a rich, zesty, and slightly sweet taste. Use vegetable oil and enough frying oil at proper temperatures to ensure the wings cook evenly and develop a crispy finish. Precision in measuring ingredients like hot sauce and spices directly impacts the intensity and heat level of your sauce. Your effort to replicate these ingredients will bring the authentic Spicy Garlic Wings flavor from Buffalo Wild Wings right to your kitchen.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat the deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dredge chicken wings in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
- Carefully place wings in the hot oil and fry in batches for 8-10 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
- Remove wings and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
- Add vegetable oil and minced garlic to the saucepan; sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
- Stir in hot sauce, honey, and soy sauce; whisk until the sauce is well combined.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then remove from heat.
- Place fried wings in a clean mixing bowl.
- Pour the spicy garlic sauce over the wings.
- Toss wings to evenly coat them with the sauce.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Spicy Garlic Wings from Buffalo Wild Wings copycat menu offer a fiery and savory experience similar to the original, with a rich garlic-infused spicy sauce. When deep frying is not an option, you can bake the wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet at 400degF (200degC) for about 45 minutes, turning halfway for crispiness. If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or omit the hot sauce, while keeping garlic powder and minced garlic to maintain flavor depth. You can substitute vegetable oil with peanut or canola oil for frying without impacting taste or texture. Adjust seasoning amounts to suit your personal taste preferences, especially the salt and honey balance.
Tips
Make sure to pat the chicken wings completely dry before dredging in the flour mixture to achieve maximum crispiness. When frying, avoid overcrowding the deep fryer to maintain the oil temperature at 375degF (190degC), ensuring an evenly cooked, golden-brown texture. Use a wire rack to drain excess oil instead of paper towels for crispier wings that don't become soggy. You'll want to toss your wings immediately after preparing the sauce to ensure every piece absorbs the bold garlic and spicy flavors thoroughly.
Nutritions
Your Spicy Garlic Wings from Buffalo Wild Wings provide a rich source of protein from 2 lbs of chicken wings, essential for muscle repair and growth. The sauce combines antioxidant-rich garlic and hot sauce, which may help boost metabolism and support immune health. However, the deep-frying process adds significant calories and fat, primarily from the vegetable oil and butter, which can increase saturated fat intake. Moderation is key to balancing indulgence with nutritional needs.
Storage
Store your Spicy Garlic Wings in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness and flavor. Refrigerate the wings within two hours of cooking and consume them within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer at 375degF (190degC) to restore the crispy texture and enhance the sauce's bold garlic and spicy notes.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap chicken wings for drumettes or boneless chicken bites for a different texture and easier eating experience. Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika to add a subtle smoky flavor that complements the garlic and heat. For a healthier approach, bake the coated wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet at 425degF (220degC) for 40-45 minutes instead of frying to achieve a crispy finish without excess oil. Adjust the honey quantity to balance the heat to your taste, making the sauce sweeter if preferred.
Allergies
Spicy Garlic Wings contain several common allergens, including soy from the soy sauce and wheat in the all-purpose flour. The sauce's ingredients, such as butter and honey, can also cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to dairy or pollen-derived products. You should check ingredient labels carefully and inform the restaurant of any food allergies before ordering.
Why this recipe?
Buffalo Wild Wings' Spicy Garlic Wings are a flavorful blend of bold heat and savory garlic, creating a unique taste that appeals to fans of spicy foods. The wings combine a perfect balance of spicy cayenne peppers with robust garlic, offering a satisfying kick without overwhelming your palate. Making a copycat version allows you to customize the spice level and enjoy fresh, crispy wings anytime you want in your own kitchen. Your homemade wings can deliver the same addictive flavor while being more cost-effective and tailored to your taste preferences.