Are you ready to ditch the takeout and experience the fiery, finger-licking goodness of Famous Dave's-style wings right in your own kitchen? This recipe delivers that same smoky, sweet, and spicy flavor you crave, but with the added satisfaction of knowing exactly what went into your delicious, homemade meal. It's easier than you think to recreate this classic, and it's perfect for game day, a casual get-together, or a satisfying weeknight dinner. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a crucial step for healthy cooking and preventing sticking.
Prepare the Wings:
-
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
-
In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, cumin, salt, pepper, and ginger. Mix well to ensure even distribution of spices.
Coat the Wings:
- Add the chicken wings to the bowl with the spice mixture and toss until they are evenly coated. Make sure each wing is generously covered for maximum flavor.
Bake to Perfection:
-
Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
-
Bake for 45-50 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through. Keep an eye on them – you want them golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove from the oven and let the wings rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful wings.
Tips for Wing Perfection:
- Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For extra heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Double the batch: This recipe easily doubles (or triples!) for larger gatherings. Just be sure to use appropriately sized baking sheets.
- Crispy wings: For extra crispy wings, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close watch to avoid burning.
- Make it ahead: The wings can be prepped ahead of time – coat them in the morning and bake them later in the day.
Delicious Variations:
- Sweet and Sour: Add a tablespoon of rice vinegar and a teaspoon of honey to the spice mixture for a tangy twist.
- BBQ Bonanza: After baking, toss the wings in your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Lemon Pepper: Replace the cayenne pepper with lemon zest and black pepper for a zesty alternative.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
This easy recipe for Famous Dave's-inspired wings is sure to become a new favorite. The flavors are bold and satisfying, and the process is simple enough for even beginner cooks to master. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!