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These Cajun Garlic Chicken Wings bring the perfect balance of spicy and savory, baked to a crispy golden finish that never fails to satisfy. Whether you are hosting a casual game night or craving a flavorful dinner, this dish delivers a hearty punch of zest and garlic in every bite.
I first made these wings for a friend’s birthday party, and they disappeared so fast everyone asked for the recipe afterward. Now they’re my go-to wing recipe whenever I want to impress without stress.
Ingredients
- Chicken wings: two pounds with joints separated and tips removed for even cooking and crispiness
- Olive oil: two tablespoons to help the seasoning stick and promote browning
- Cajun seasoning: one tablespoon packed with the classic blend of spices that brings the south to the plate
- Garlic: four cloves minced to infuse the wings with sharp, aromatic depth
- Smoked paprika: one teaspoon adds a subtle smoky heat and a beautiful color to the wings
- Salt: half a teaspoon enhances all the flavors while keeping things balanced
- Black pepper: half a teaspoon for a gentle kick of spice
- Fresh parsley: one tablespoon chopped for garnish to add brightness and a fresh pop of green
When choosing chicken wings, pick ones that are fresh or well thawed for the best texture. Quality olive oil makes a difference in flavor so use extra virgin if you can.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit which is perfect to get the wings nice and crispy. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease it to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Season the Wings:
- In a large bowl, add the chicken wings along with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together thoroughly so each wing is evenly coated with the flavorful mix.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
- Place the wings on your prepared sheet in a single layer making sure none overlap. This spacing is key to help the air circulate around each wing for the crispiest results.
- Bake the Wings:
- Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Flip the wings over halfway through cooking to ensure both sides get perfectly golden and crisp.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once baked, remove the wings from the oven and sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over them. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy this irresistible Cajun Garlic Chicken Wings feast.
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My favorite ingredient has to be the smoked paprika because it adds that beautiful smoky aroma which makes this recipe stand out. One time I served these wings at a family gathering, and the smoky spice won over even the kids, which is always a win.
Storage Tips
Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes to bring back their crispiness. Avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can make a simple spice mix using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme. For a heat-free version, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper but keep the garlic and smoked paprika for flavor depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these wings with celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for classic accompaniment. They also pair excellently with corn on the cob, coleslaw, or crispy potato wedges for a full southern-inspired feast.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is the best way to get crispy chicken wings?
For crispy wings, bake them at a high temperature (425°F) on a greased or lined baking sheet, flipping halfway to ensure even browning.
- → Can I prepare the wings ahead of time?
Yes, you can season the wings a few hours before baking and keep them refrigerated to allow flavors to meld.
- → What does Cajun seasoning consist of?
Cajun seasoning typically includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne, and herbs, offering a spicy and smoky profile.
- → Can I substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder?
Yes, garlic powder can be used but fresh garlic provides a stronger, more vibrant flavor in this dish.
- → How can I make these wings less spicy?
Reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, or balance with a touch of honey or a mild dipping sauce.
- → Is it necessary to flip the wings during baking?
Flipping ensures both sides cook evenly and helps the skin become crispy all over.