Are you craving a delicious, mouth-watering appetizer to impress your guests or simply elevate your meal? Spicy butter chicken wings might just be the dish you’re looking for. This recipe takes inspiration from the classic butter chicken, a beloved Indian dish, and adds a spicy twist to create a fusion appetizer that’s bursting with flavor.
In this article, we’ll explore how to make spicy butter chicken wings, a perfect starter for any occasion, as well as variations, tips, and tricks to help you achieve the best results.
What Are Spicy Butter Chicken Wings?
Spicy butter chicken wings are a delectable combination of juicy chicken wings drenched in a rich, creamy, and spicy butter sauce. The traditional butter chicken is an iconic Indian dish made with tender chicken cooked in a smooth, buttery tomato-based sauce, spiced with garam masala and other aromatic spices. By incorporating this sauce into chicken wings, we create a flavorful appetizer that balances the richness of the butter sauce with the heat of spices.
The wings are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and drenched in a vibrant, spicy butter sauce that packs a punch. Whether served as a starter, a snack for game night, or part of a larger feast, spicy butter chicken wings are sure to become a crowd favorite.
Ingredients for Spicy Butter Chicken Wings
Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need for the spicy butter chicken wings:
For the Chicken Wings:
- 10–12 chicken wings (or chicken tenderloin if you prefer boneless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to your spice tolerance)
For the Spicy Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (or more for extra spice)
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
These ingredients combine to create the perfect balance of flavor, spice, and richness that will elevate your wings to a whole new level.
How to Make Spicy Butter Chicken Wings
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Wings
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a grill pan on medium-high heat. Prepare your chicken wings by removing any feathers and patting them dry with a paper towel. This will help the wings get crispy during cooking.
To season the wings, place them in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, ground cumin, ground coriander, and chili powder. Toss the wings until they are evenly coated with the spices. Let the wings sit for 10–15 minutes to marinate, allowing the flavors to meld.
If you’re using chicken tenderloin instead of wings, you can cut the tenderloin into bite-sized pieces and season them the same way.
Step 2: Cooking the Chicken Wings
To get crispy wings, there are two main methods you can choose from:
Option 1: Baking
Arrange the seasoned chicken wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
Option 2: Grilling
If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can grill the wings on medium-high heat for 20–25 minutes, flipping occasionally to ensure they are cooked through and have crispy skin. If you’re using chicken tenderloin, reduce the grilling time to 8–10 minutes.
Once the wings are crispy and fully cooked, remove them from the oven or grill and set them aside.
Step 3: Making the Spicy Butter Sauce
While the wings are cooking, it’s time to prepare the spicy butter sauce.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for about 3–5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Next, sprinkle in the garam masala, turmeric, red chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir the spices into the onions, garlic, and ginger to release their aromas. Cook the spices for about 2 minutes to bring out their full flavor.
Add the tomato puree to the skillet and stir to combine with the spices. Let the sauce simmer for 5–7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and honey (or brown sugar) for a creamy and slightly sweet finish. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt or chili powder if needed.
Step 4: Tossing the Wings in the Sauce
Once the sauce is ready, toss the crispy chicken wings into the spicy butter sauce. Ensure each wing is coated evenly with the rich, spicy sauce. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can also drizzle some extra sauce over the top of the wings.
Return the coated wings to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to let the sauce set, or serve immediately if you prefer a fresher, saucy finish.
Step 5: Garnishing and Serving
Once the wings are well-coated in the sauce, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and added flavor. Serve your spicy butter chicken wings immediately, either on a platter or as part of a buffet-style spread. You can pair them with a cool yogurt dip or a tangy chutney for an added layer of flavor.
Tips for the Best Spicy Butter Chicken Wings
- Use High-Quality Chicken: For the best flavor, always use fresh, high-quality chicken wings. If you’re using chicken tenderloin, opt for organic or hormone-free chicken for the best results.
- Adjust Spice Levels: The level of spice in the butter sauce can be adjusted based on your personal preference. If you like it milder, use less chili powder and red chili flakes. For an extra kick, feel free to add more heat!
- Crispiness is Key: To achieve crispy wings, make sure they are fully dry before seasoning. You can also broil the wings for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking or grilling to give them an extra crispy finish.
- Make Extra Sauce: The spicy butter sauce is rich and flavorful, and it’s perfect for dipping. Make a little extra and serve it on the side for guests to enjoy.
- Serving Suggestions: These spicy butter chicken wings are perfect for serving with sides like rice, naan bread, or a fresh cucumber salad. They also make a great dish for parties, family gatherings, or even a cozy night in.
Why Try Spicy Butter Chicken Wings?
If you love bold flavors, spicy food, and satisfying appetizers, spicy butter chicken wings are an excellent choice. The tender chicken, combined with the rich and spicy butter sauce, creates a perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and tang. Plus, the dish is versatile enough to be served as a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal.
These wings are also perfect for those who love chicken starter recipes with a twist. You can easily scale the recipe for larger groups, and it’s a great way to introduce new flavors to your guests. Whether you’re making chicken tenderloin recipes or sticking with traditional wings, this recipe is sure to impress.
Moreover, if you’re into tastemade recipes or Tasty recipes videos, you’ll love how easy and fun this recipe is to make. The crispy chicken combined with a creamy spicy sauce is a crowd-pleaser that is guaranteed to disappear quickly.
Conclusion
Spicy butter chicken wings are a flavorful and exciting fusion of butter chicken and spicy wings. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can prepare an appetizer that’s both comforting and packed with vibrant flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a delicious snack, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
So the next time you’re in the mood for something new and flavorful, try making these spicy butter chicken wings. It’s a guaranteed hit that’s sure to leave everyone coming back for more!
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