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The Best Extra Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Wings

Comfort food at its finest in the form of chicken wings marinated in chipotle infused buttermilk and deep-fried to crispy perfection. 

Get ready to indulge in a symphony of flavors with these tantalizing Buttermilk Fried Chicken Wings. Picture succulent, tender chicken wings, bathed in a tangy and creamy buttermilk marinade that infuses each bite with a rich and luscious essence.

As you sink your teeth into the golden, crispy exterior, a burst of savory and aromatic spices dances on your palate, creating a harmony of taste sensations that leaves you craving for more. These wings are the epitome of indulgence, a heavenly marriage of juicy chicken, tangy buttermilk, and irresistible crunch, delivering a culinary experience that will make your taste buds sing with delight.Dallas Inspiration

There is nothing so Dallas as fried chicken from Henderson's, Hall's, Rudy's, or even Bubba's. The latter is a Northside or Nawf Dallas joint vs. the former three the dirty Southside which are hood joints that are the best but likely don't make any "Best of" Dallas lists.

This buttermilk fried chicken wings recipe is more of a nod to the Southside trio where you're subject to get a basket of beautifully fried golden yardbird served with fries, pickles, and a pepper over a few slices of white bread. In Dallas as true for most if not all of Texas, we are about that seasoning vs. sauce which my Chicago peeps swear by.

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Wings in a basket

Beats and Eats (music to pair with Buttermilk Fried Chicken Wings)

The infectious energy of ADD+'s song "I'm So Dallas" pairs harmoniously with the indulgence of buttermilk fried chicken wings, creating a synergistic experience for both the palate and the soul. Just as the crispy exterior of the wings entices with its irresistible texture, the upbeat rhythm and catchy lyrics of the song awaken the senses and set the stage for a lively dining experience. As you savor each bite of the succulent chicken enveloped in a tangy buttermilk marinade, the song's energetic vibe amplifies the enjoyment, creating a dynamic fusion of taste and sound.

The boldness and swagger of "I'm So Dallas" mirror the bold flavors and irresistible appeal of the wings, infusing the dining atmosphere with an extra layer of excitement. So, crank up the volume, let the rhythm guide your every bite, and allow yourself to be immersed in the vibrant combination of tantalizing flavors and infectious beats. Together, ADD+'s song and buttermilk fried chicken wings invite you to embrace the joy, indulgence, and lively spirit that come with the perfect pairing of music and culinary delight.

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Wings Ingredients & Substitutions

I was fortunate as a kid to enjoy some great fried chicken courtesy of my grandmother. She had a great buttermilk fried chicken recipe and it was on the menu every Sunday. Fast forward to current day in my household we try to honor many of those tradition from my childhood.

We don't enjoy fried chicken with the same frequency, but when we do it's grandma level fried bird with a twist to reflect the times. My grandmother definitely used buttermilk as part of the coating/breading process. My twist is to add chipotle flavor to the buttermilk brine ahead of time to add a smokey, mild heat. Everything else is all about technique.

To make delicious buttermilk fried chicken wings, you'll need the following ingredients:

  1. Chicken Wings: Use fresh chicken wings, I used whole wings for this dish but feel free to use wings that have been separated into drumettes and flats.
  2. Buttermilk: Buttermilk is the star ingredient that tenderizes the chicken and adds a tangy flavor. Ensure you have enough to fully submerge the wings for marinating.
  3. Chipotle Adoba Sauce:
  4. Breading Flour: I used a combination of all-purpose flour, corn meal, and potato starch to coat the chicken wings before frying. The combination creates a unique texture and flavor profile.
  5. Seasonings: A blend of seasonings adds flavor to the flour coating. Common choices include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper for a touch of heat. I added ground sage, mace, and ground thyme
  6. Baking Powder: Adding baking powder to the flour mixture helps create extra crispiness in the fried coating.
  7. Peanut Oil: Peanut oil is ideal for deep frying the wings due to its high smoke point. Make sure you have enough oil to fully submerge the wings during frying.

These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of tender meat and crispy coating in buttermilk fried chicken wings. Get ready for a satisfyingly delicious and addictive dish.

How to fry the chicken wings

Step 1: Prepare the marinade

Place the buttermilk, adobo sauce, and dried basil in a large mixing bowl. Mix well then add the chicken to the buttermilk mixture.

buttermilk and chipotle liquid in a blender
Place buttermilk, 1 tablespoon salt, basil, and chipotle in blender and puree.

Brine in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

pouring marinade into bag
Place chicken in ziplock bag and add the marinade. Place chicken in the refrigerator for 4-12 hours.

Step 2: Prep the chicken for frying

Prepare a cooling station by inserting wire rack inside a baking sheet. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and place on the wire rack. Allow the chicken to reach room temperature.

raw chicken resting on a tray
remove chicken from marinade and spread out on a tray.

While the chicken rests heat the oil in a deep skillet or deep fryer over medium heat to 350 degrees.

Step 3 Make The Breading

Mix the flour and spices together in a large bowl. Working in batches, thoroughly coat each buttermilk-soaked chicken piece with the flour mixture.

pouring marinade into bowl of flour
Mix flour, starch, corn meal, baking powder, and half the seasoning in a bowl using a whisk. Add a few tablespoons of the leftover marinade to the flour mix and stir it in
raw breaded chicken resting on rack
Apply breading to the chicken. Use your hands to make sure the breading reaches all nooks and crannies of the chicken. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the chicken to air dry. This will basically help the crust stick to the chicken better during frying which means the crust won't fall apart completely when you bite into it.

Step 4 Fry The Chicken

Add chicken wings to the oil a few pieces at a time without overcrowding. Cover pan and fry anywhere from 5-7 minutes. Turn, cover and cook additional 3-5 minutes more.

Remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on metal rack for 5 minutes. Let cool for an additional 10 minutes before serving.

fried chicken wings resting on a tray
Fry the chicken at 350 degrees for 5 minutes. Flip and fry for another 3-4 minutes. Remove and drain and cool on a wire rack. Sprinkle seasoning on the finished chicken. Serve

Serving Suggestions

Do it Dallas style and serve as a basket with pickles, peppers, and white bread. The bread is great for soaking up the chicken grease. Fair warning, chicken grease-soaked bread is delicious. Great fries are always a welcome pairing but feel free to consult this complete guide for what to serve with fried chicken.

Include some of your favorite hot sauce on the side.

fried chicken wings resting on a tray

What To Serve With Crispy Fried Chicken Wings

When it comes to serving alongside delectable fried chicken wings, a variety of delicious options can complement and elevate your dining experience. Consider these mouthwatering accompaniments:

  1. Classic Dipping Sauces: Offer an array of classic dipping sauces such as tangy barbecue sauce, creamy ranch dressing, zesty buffalo sauce, or spicy sriracha mayo. These condiments add an extra layer of flavor and provide a delightful contrast to the crispy chicken wings.
  2. Crispy French Fries: The crispy texture of French fries pairs perfectly with fried chicken wings. Serve them alongside as a satisfying side dish, and sprinkle with your favorite seasonings like garlic, Parmesan cheese, or Cajun spices for an extra kick.
  3. Fresh Vegetable Crudité: Refresh your palate with a vibrant vegetable crudité platter. Include an assortment of crisp veggies like carrot sticks, celery, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Accompany them with a flavorful dip like hummus or yogurt-based ranch for a healthy and crunchy contrast to the wings.
  4. Creamy Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides a cool and refreshing element to balance the richness of the fried chicken wings. Its crisp cabbage and carrot shreds coated in a tangy dressing create a satisfying contrast in both texture and flavor.
  5. Buttery Biscuits: Serve warm, buttery biscuits alongside the chicken wings. These fluffy delights not only add a comforting element to the meal but also provide a perfect vessel for sopping up any leftover sauces.
  6. Pickles and Pickled Vegetables: Tangy and briny pickles or pickled vegetables, such as cucumbers, jalapeños, or radishes, provide a zingy and refreshing counterpoint to the savory fried chicken wings.
  7. Cornbread: The crumbly and slightly sweet cornbread is a delightful companion to fried chicken. Its rich flavor and texture create a comforting contrast to the crispy exterior of the wings.

Variations On This Chicken Recipe

The versatility of buttermilk fried chicken wings allows for endless creative variations to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some exciting twists you can explore to add a unique flair to your recipe:

  1. Spicy Buffalo Wings: Toss the fried wings in a spicy buffalo sauce for a classic and fiery twist. Adjust the heat level to your liking, and serve with a side of cool ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the spiciness.
  2. Honey Mustard Glazed Wings: Drizzle the fried wings with a luscious honey mustard glaze for a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. The glaze caramelizes on the crispy wings, adding a lip-smacking touch.
  3. Korean-Style Wings: Coat the fried wings in a sticky and savory Korean-style sauce. This tangy and slightly sweet sauce typically combines ingredients like gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, resulting in finger-licking wings with a hint of heat.
  4. Teriyaki Wings: Toss the wings in a glossy teriyaki sauce for a Japanese-inspired twist. The combination of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sweetness creates a delightful umami flavor that perfectly complements the crispy wings.
  5. BBQ Glazed Wings: Brush the fried wings with your favorite barbecue sauce, be it smoky, tangy, or sweet. The sticky glaze adds a depth of flavor and a touch of smokiness that pairs wonderfully with the crispy texture.
  6. Lemon Pepper Wings: Season the fried wings generously with zesty lemon zest, cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of salt. The bright citrusy notes and aromatic pepper create a refreshing and flavorful variation.
  7. Sticky Sesame Wings: Toss the wings in a sticky sesame glaze, combining flavors of soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and toasted sesame seeds. The resulting wings have a delightful balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors.

Key Cooking Tips

Frequently Asked Questions About Frying Chicken Wings

What oil should I use for frying chicken wings?

High smoke point oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are suitable for frying chicken wings. These oils can withstand the high heat required for deep frying without imparting strong flavors to the wings.

Can I air fry chicken wings instead of deep frying?

Yes, air frying is a popular alternative to deep frying. Coat the chicken wings with a light layer of oil, season them, and cook them in an air fryer at around 400°F (200°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and cooked through.

How do I ensure crispy chicken wings?

To achieve crispy chicken wings, ensure that they are thoroughly dried before frying to prevent excess moisture. Additionally, coat the wings with a seasoned flour mixture or a light batter to create a crispy crust. Maintaining a consistent oil temperature and not overcrowding the fryer are also key factors in achieving crispy wings.

Can I reheat fried chicken wings?

Yes, you can reheat fried chicken wings. Preheat your oven to around 350°F (175°C), place the wings on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method helps to retain the crispiness of the wings.

For other fried chicken recipes:

Make This Fried Chicken Wings Recipe

In conclusion, these Buttermilk Fried Chicken Wings offer a mouthwatering symphony of flavors that will leave you longing for each succulent bite. The tangy, creamy buttermilk marinade envelopes the chicken, infusing it with a rich, velvety essence that tantalizes the taste buds.

With each satisfying crunch of the golden, crispy exterior, the flavors of the aromatic spices unfold, creating a harmonious blend of savory, zesty, and just a hint of heat. Whether enjoyed as a delectable appetizer or the star of your meal, these wings are a testament to the magic that happens when juicy chicken meets the transformative powers of buttermilk and expertly balanced seasonings.

If you make this buttermilk fried chicken recipe enjoy it with an ice cold brew or champagne if that's your thing. Either way please come back and leave me a comment below with your feedback. Definitely take a photo of the dish and be sure to tag #foodfidelity so that I can see them.

You can also keep up with my food exploits as well as original recipes! You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. If you like any of the music you find on the site, visit me at Spotify to find curated monthly playlists.

Buttermilk Fried Chicken Wings in a basket

Chipotle infused Buttermilk Fried Chicken Wings

Crispy fried chicken wings, brined in chipotle infused buttermilk then deep fried in peanut oil for delicious well-seasoned appetizer
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Soul Food
Servings: 2
Calories: 922kcal
Author: Marwin Brown

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken wings

Buttermilk Brine

  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 2 whole dried chipotle chili peppers optional

Chicken Coating

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup potato starch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ cup corn meal
  • 2 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground sage
  • ½ teaspoon ground bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon mace
  • 1 teaspoon ground thyme
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Peanut oil for frying

Instructions

Make the Brine

  • Heat heavy cast iron skillet on high heat. Add chili peppers (remove seeds and veins if you prefer less heat) to the skillet for 2 minutes to release aroma of the smoked chiles.
  • Remove chiles from heat and add to blender with buttermilk and dried basil and pulse until chiles are broken down completely. 
  • In a large bowl add the chicken and buttermilk mixture. Brine in refrigerator 2-8 hours. 

Fry the Chicken

  • Set up metal rack with foil lined baking sheet beneath. Remove chicken from refrigerator, place on rack and let reach room temperature.
  • Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer over medium high heat to 350 degrees. 
  • Mix the flour and spices together in a large bowl. Working in batches, thoroughly coat each buttermilk-soaked chicken piece with the flour mixture.
  • Add the chicken to the oil a few pieces at a time without overcrowding. Cover pan and fry anywhere from 5-7 minutes. Turn, cover and cook additional 3-5 minutes more.
  • Remove the chicken from the oil and let it drain on metal rack for 5 minutes. Let cool for an additional 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Be sure there is adequate salt in the brine
  • adding a neutral-tasting liquor like vodka to the marinade helps deliver more crispiness when the chicken is fried
  • Don't marinate the chicken too long as it can become very mushy.
  • Add flavor at every step starting with the brine. Season the flour with your spice mix (grandma used: paprika, garlic, salt, pepper, and dry mustard) and post frying season again with the spice mix
  • Moisture is the enemy of crispy chicken. The dryer your chicken is before frying the crispier the chicken will be. Pat dry the chicken before you start. Air-dry the chicken uncovered in the fridge for at least an hour before frying
  • Use fresh oil to ensure clean flavor

Nutrition

Calories: 922kcal | Carbohydrates: 129g | Protein: 40g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 100mg | Sodium: 2680mg | Potassium: 1399mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 1938IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 439mg | Iron: 8mg
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