Crispy Roasted Chicken Wings with Spicy Mango BBQ Sauce

Crispy roasted chicken wings are a classic favorite, perfect for game days, parties, or a cozy night in. When paired with a zesty spicy mango BBQ sauce, they transform from ordinary to extraordinary. This recipe will guide you through creating flavorful, crispy chicken wings that are sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Wings:

• 2 pounds of chicken wings
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Spicy Mango BBQ Sauce:

• 1 cup mango puree (fresh or canned)
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1-2 teaspoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A high temperature is key to achieving that perfect crispy texture.

2. Dry the Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for crispy skin, as moisture will prevent them from getting that desirable crunch.

3. Season the Wings: In a large bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Toss the wings with this mixture to ensure they are evenly coated. The baking powder helps to create a crispy exterior.

4. Oil the Wings: Drizzle the olive oil over the wings and toss again to coat. This will help with browning during roasting.

Step 2: Roast the Chicken Wings

1. Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the rack. This allows the heat to circulate and promotes even cooking.

2. Bake: Roast the wings in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to ensure they don’t burn. You want them golden brown and crispy.

Step 3: Make the Spicy Mango BBQ Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the mango puree, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld, giving your sauce a rich and tangy taste.

3. Taste and Adjust: Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning or heat level as necessary. If you prefer it spicier, add more hot sauce.

Step 4: Serve

1. Coat the Wings: Once the wings are done roasting, remove them from the oven and toss them in the spicy mango BBQ sauce until well coated.

2. Garnish: Serve the wings garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions for a burst of color and flavor.

3. Pairing Suggestions: These wings pair beautifully with cooling sides like coleslaw, cucumber salad, or ranch dressing. For drinks, consider serving them with a crisp lager or a refreshing iced tea.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Wings

• Drying is Key: Always ensure your wings are thoroughly dried before seasoning. This step is vital for achieving that crispy skin.
• Use a Wire Rack: Elevating the wings on a wire rack allows hot air to circulate around them, resulting in even cooking and crispiness.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize the BBQ sauce by adding pineapple juice for sweetness or chipotle for smokiness.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, or substitute it with tamari.
• Vegan Option: Substitute chicken wings with cauliflower florets or seitan for a plant-based version of this dish.
• Different Sauces: Try a teriyaki glaze or a garlic parmesan sauce for a different flavor profile.

With the right ingredients and techniques, you can create mouthwatering crispy roasted chicken wings that will become a staple in your recipe collection. Don’t shy away from experimenting with your own flavors and spices!

For more delicious recipes and cooking techniques, explore this link to elevate your culinary skills. Happy cooking!