Get ready for some tasty wings that are sweet with a kick! These brown sugar Cajun wings are crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor. Perfect for game nights!
I love how easy they are to whip up. Just toss them in a zesty mix, pop them in the oven, and watch the magic happen! They’re hard to resist, so grab a napkin! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh or frozen wings work fine. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely first. For a lighter option, you could use chicken drumsticks instead.
Brown Sugar: This gives the wings their sweetness. If you’re out, you can substitute with coconut sugar or a mix of granulated sugar and molasses for a similar flavor.
Cajun Seasoning: A must for that spicy kick! If you don’t have it, you can make your own using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and dried herbs like thyme and oregano.
Olive Oil: This helps the wings crisp up in the oven. You can swap it for vegetable oil or melted coconut oil if you like.
How Do You Get Your Wings Extra Crispy?
The secret to crispy wings is in the baking method. Here’s a great way to ensure they crisp up perfectly:
- Start with drying the wings thoroughly; moisture will make them soggy.
- Using a wire rack allows air to circulate around the wings while baking, leading to a crispier finish.
- Flipping the wings halfway through ensures all sides get even crispness.
- Broiling at the end caramelizes the sugar for that perfect golden finish—just watch them closely to avoid burning.
Giving your wings this extra attention will make them a favorite at any gathering! Enjoy the fun blend of sweet and spicy flavors!
Sweet and Spicy Brown Sugar Cajun Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split and tips removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake, making a total time of around 50 minutes. Just a little patience is required while your wings cook and get crispy in the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). To catch all those delicious drippings, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate around the wings, helping them to become wonderfully crispy!
2. Dry the Chicken Wings:
In a large bowl, take your chicken wings and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get that crispy texture when baked.
3. Oil and Season the Wings:
Drizzle the olive oil over the wings, and toss them in the bowl until they are thoroughly coated. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Sprinkle this spice mixture over the wings and toss again to make sure each wing is well-coated.
4. Arrange on the Rack:
Carefully place the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack. This gives them room to breathe while they bake, making sure they get nice and crispy!
5. Bake the Wings:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes. Make sure to flip the wings halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy all over.
6. Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
If you want your wings to be extra nice and crispy, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the wings from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Before serving, you can sprinkle some chopped parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color and flavor!
Enjoy your Sweet and Spicy Brown Sugar Cajun Wings with your favorite dipping sauce, and get ready for a flavor explosion!
FAQ for Sweet and Spicy Brown Sugar Cajun Wings
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the wings completely before seasoning and cooking. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water.
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness of the Wings?
To control the heat, simply adjust the amount of cayenne pepper. For a milder flavor, you can omit the cayenne altogether or reduce it. Alternatively, if you like it spicier, feel free to add more! You can also use a spicier Cajun seasoning for an extra kick.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness—just bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Can I Make These Wings in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the seasoned wings for about 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method will also yield crispy wings while using less oil!
