Cowboy Butter Chicken Wings Recipe
Cowboy Butter Chicken Wings are succulent, flavorful wings coated in a rich, buttery marinade infused with smoky paprika, garlic, and a hint of cayenne pepper for a mild kick. Baked to crispy perfection and garnished with fresh parsley, these wings make an irresistible appetizer or party snack.
- Author: Lila
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 8-10 wings per serving) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Chicken Wings
- 2 pounds chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
Marinade
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish & Serving
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: Hot sauce for serving
- Prep the Wings: Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the marinade adheres well. Place the dried wings in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Marinade: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until evenly combined and fragrant.
- Marinate: Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken wings, tossing them to coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour; for deeper flavors, marinate overnight.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the wings.
- Line a Baking Sheet: Cover a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to simplify cleanup, then place a wire rack on top to allow air circulation around the wings.
- Arrange the Wings: Remove wings from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and spread them in a single layer on the wire rack to promote even cooking and a crispy finish.
- Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake the wings for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and thoroughly cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Baste for Extra Flavor (Optional): In the last 5-10 minutes of baking, baste the wings with any remaining marinade to lock in moisture and enhance flavor.
- Broil for Crispness: For an extra crispy texture, switch the oven to broil and cook the wings for an additional 3-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Garnish: Remove the wings from the oven, allow them to rest for a few minutes, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with optional hot sauce if desired.
Notes
- For best results, marinate wings overnight to deepen flavors.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level according to your preference.
- Using a wire rack helps the wings become crispy by allowing air circulation.
- Ensure wings reach internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Broiling at the end is optional but recommended for a crispier skin.
- Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 wings
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
Keywords: chicken wings, cowboy butter, baked wings, smoky paprika wings, finger foods, party snacks, easy appetizer