Are you craving a delicious and easy weeknight meal that's bursting with flavor? Look no further than these Daytona Beach Wings! Inspired by the vibrant atmosphere and sunny beaches of Daytona, this recipe delivers juicy, tender wings with a kick that will have you saying "Wow!" These aren't your average wings; we're talking homemade goodness, packed with flavor and surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for a quick dinner, a game-day gathering, or simply satisfying a craving for delicious, healthy meals, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup your favorite hot sauce (Frank's RedHot is a classic choice)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
Getting Started: Prep the Wings
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This simple step makes a big difference in the clean-up process after dinner!
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Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Excess moisture will steam the wings instead of browning them.
Making the Magic: The Flavor Rub
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In a medium bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
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Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the spice mixture. Ensure every wing is generously seasoned for maximum flavor.
Baking to Perfection: The Crispy Wings
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Drizzle the olive oil over the wings and toss again to coat. This helps the spices adhere and contributes to that beautiful golden-brown color.
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Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
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Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
The Finishing Touch: The Sauce
- While the wings are still hot, toss them in a bowl with the hot sauce and melted butter. This step creates a beautiful glossy finish and infuses the wings with extra flavor.
Cooking Tips for Daytona Beach Wings
- For extra crispy wings, broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.
- Feel free to experiment with different hot sauces to find your perfect flavor profile.
- Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations: Beyond the Beach
- BBQ Daytona Beach Wings: Replace the hot sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Honey Garlic Daytona Beach Wings: Mix equal parts honey and soy sauce, add a touch of garlic powder, and toss with the cooked wings.
- Spicy Pineapple Daytona Beach Wings: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pineapple to the hot sauce mixture for a sweet and spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 20g
- Fat: Approximately 15g
These Daytona Beach Wings are a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on taste. The simple steps and readily available ingredients make this a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, while the delicious results will impress even the most discerning palates. Enjoy the sunshine in every bite!