Papa's Chicken Wings from Papa John's feature tender, juicy chicken wings tossed in a flavorful blend of savory spices and tangy buffalo sauce, delivering a crispy exterior with a bold, zesty kick in every bite.
Equipments
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup (120ml) hot buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Ensure you use baking powder, not baking soda, to achieve the crispy texture on the chicken wings without any unpleasant aftertaste. Freshly ground black pepper and smoked paprika add depth and a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste profile. Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred level of heat, as it can significantly impact the spiciness of the wings. Use high-quality hot buffalo sauce for an authentic tangy zing, combined with melted butter to balance the heat with richness. This careful selection of ingredients ensures your Papa's Chicken Wings from Papa John's copycat menu come out perfectly crispy and bursting with bold, savory flavor.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line baking sheet with foil and place wire rack on top.
- Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels.
- In mixing bowl, combine baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Toss chicken wings in spice mixture until evenly coated.
- Arrange wings on wire rack in a single layer.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
- In saucepan over low heat, melt butter and whisk in buffalo sauce until combined.
- Transfer baked wings to mixing bowl, pour buffalo sauce mixture over, and toss to coat.
- Arrange wings on serving platter and serve immediately.
Substitution
Papa's Chicken Wings from Papa John's copycat menu deliver that signature crispy texture and bold buffalo flavor you love. If you don't have baking powder on hand, you can substitute it with baking soda, but reduce the quantity to half to avoid an off taste. When tossing the wings in sauce, make sure they are warm to better absorb the flavors, ensuring each bite is juicy and zesty. Using a wire rack on your baking sheet helps the wings cook evenly and obtain that desirable crispiness. Your buffalo sauce can be customized by adjusting the cayenne pepper to match your preferred spice level.
Tips
Ensure chicken wings are thoroughly dried with paper towels before seasoning to achieve maximum crispiness. Use baking powder, not baking soda, to create a light, crispy texture on the wing skin without altering the flavor. When flipping the wings halfway through baking, use tongs to avoid piercing the meat and losing juices. You can adjust the cayenne pepper quantity to control the heat level in your buffalo sauce for a customized spicy kick.
Nutritions
Papa's Chicken Wings from Papa John's provide a protein-rich option with approximately 27 grams of protein per 6-piece serving, supporting muscle repair and growth. Each serving contains around 250 calories, primarily from the wings and buffalo sauce, with a moderate fat content including some saturated fats from the melted butter. The blend of spices adds flavor without significant calories, while sodium content can be high due to the salt and sauce, so You should monitor intake if managing sodium levels. These wings offer a flavorful, satisfying option that balances protein and fats, ideal for a hearty snack or meal component.
Storage
Store any leftover Papa's Chicken Wings in an airtight container to maintain their flavor and moisture. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness and safety. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer to restore the crispy exterior and keep your wings tasting like they just came out of the oven.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, try marinating the chicken wings in buttermilk with a pinch of cayenne pepper for 2 hours before coating them with the spice mixture to enhance tenderness and flavor. Instead of baking, you can deep-fry the wings at 375degF (190degC) for 8-10 minutes to achieve an even crispier texture. Swap buffalo sauce with a honey garlic glaze made by mixing honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, and a splash of vinegar, then toss your wings in the glaze while warm. You can also add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a fresh, colorful finish to your dish.
Allergies
Papa's Chicken Wings contain common allergens such as butter, which includes dairy, and may also contain traces of wheat or gluten depending on the hot buffalo sauce brand. The blend of spices does not typically trigger allergies, but individuals sensitive to cayenne pepper or garlic powder should exercise caution. If you have food allergies, carefully check the labels of all ingredients to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
Papa's Chicken Wings menu from Papa John's restaurant is favored for its crispy texture, bold seasoning, and perfectly balanced flavor profile that satisfies wing enthusiasts. The wings are coated with a distinctive blend of spices and served with a variety of sauces, giving you customizable and unforgettable taste experiences. Many fans appreciate the juicy, tender meat that remains moist after frying, making each bite flavorful and enjoyable. Attempting the copycat recipe allows you to recreate this popular dish at home, saving money while tailoring seasoning to match your unique preferences.