Craving those crispy, flavorful Publix hot wings but don't want to make a special trip? Then you've come to the right place! This copycat recipe brings the deliciousness of those famous wings right to your kitchen. It's easier than you think to recreate this crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course, perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade, healthy-ish, delicious hot wings!
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 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Your favorite wing sauce (we recommend Frank's RedHot for an authentic kick!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Wings
Rinse the chicken wings thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving that crispy skin we all love.
Step 2: Make the Dry Rub
In a medium bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of spices.
Step 3: Coat the Wings
Add the olive oil to the bowl with the dry rub and mix gently. Then, add the chicken wings and toss them until they're evenly coated with the spice mixture.
Step 4: Bake or Fry (Your Choice!)
Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they're golden brown and crispy.
Frying: Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the wings in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 5: Sauce it Up!
Once the wings are cooked and slightly cooled, toss them in your favorite wing sauce. You can adjust the amount of sauce to your liking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your delicious homemade Publix-style hot wings immediately with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Wings:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Whether baking or frying, ensure the wings are in a single layer for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Pat them dry: Removing excess moisture is key to achieving that extra crispy skin.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level. Start with less and add more if you prefer extra spice.
- Let them rest: Allow the wings to rest for a few minutes after cooking before tossing them in the sauce. This helps them retain their crispiness.
Variations:
- BBQ Wings: Replace the hot sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky and sweet twist.
- Honey Garlic Wings: Combine honey and soy sauce for a sweet and savory glaze.
- Buffalo Ranch Wings: Toss the wings in buffalo sauce and then add a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra creaminess.
Nutritional Information (per wing, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the wings and the type of sauce used. However, a general estimate for baked wings without sauce is around 70-80 calories, 5-7g fat, and 5-7g protein. Added sauce will significantly increase the calorie and fat content.
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, game day snack, or any occasion where you're craving delicious homemade hot wings! Enjoy!