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Firecracker Smoky Chicken Wings

Find the best game day snack recipe for a crowd-pleasing copycat chicken wing dish with a smoky twist. This Firecracker Smoky Chicken Wings recipe will be your new go-to for parties and gatherings!

🕒 Prep: 10 minutes - Cook: 30-40 minutes - Total: 40 minutes
🍽 Servings: 6
🔥 Difficulty: Intermediate
🌎 Cuisine: American, Street Food

Allergens

Gluten (in optional blue cheese dressing), Dairy (butter and blue cheese dressing)

Ingredients

  • 24 Chicken wings, tips removed, cut into drumettes and flats
  • 1/3 Cup Frank's Red Hot Sauce
  • 1/4 Cup Unsalted Butter
  • 1 Tbsp White Vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp Brown Sugar
  • 1/2 Tbsp Cayenne Pepper
  • 1/2 Tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 Tsp Onion Powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black Pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 Cup Blue Cheese Dressing (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, vinegar, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
  3. Add chicken wings to a large mixing bowl and pour sauce mixture over them, tossing to evenly coat each piece.
  4. Place wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Bake for 20 minutes, flip the wings, then bake for an additional 10 15 minutes or until crispy and cooked through.
  6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving with blue cheese dressing if desired.

Chef’s Insight

Cook the wings low and slow to get that perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat. The sauce should be sticky, so don't be afraid to let it reduce a bit longer if needed.

Notes

The key to making these wings irresistible is in the sauce - it should be thick, sticky, and full of smoky flavor. Don't be afraid to add more cayenne pepper if you like it spicier!

Cultural or Historical Background

Inspired by a secret roadside shack famous for its smoky chicken wings, this recipe is an updated version that can be enjoyed in the comfort of your home during game day parties and family gatherings.