These Sweet and Spicy Brown Sugar Cajun Wings are a tasty treat! Coated in a sticky sauce with a kick, they’re perfect for game day or any fun gathering. Wings never tasted this good!
When I make these wings, I can’t help but eat a few before serving. But hey, who can resist that sweet and spicy flavor? Grab some napkins because it’s finger-licking good!
They’re easy to whip up too! Just toss the wings with the sauce, bake, and enjoy the yummy smell filling your kitchen. Trust me, everyone will want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh wings work best, but you can also use frozen; just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, try chicken drumsticks or tenderloins instead.
Brown Sugar: This is key for that sweet coating. If you’re in a pinch, you can use white sugar, but the flavor won’t be as rich. For a healthier alternative, coconut sugar can add similar sweetness.
Cajun Seasoning: This adds that special kick! If you don’t have any, you could use a blend of paprika, oregano, thyme, and a bit of chili powder as a substitute. Just season to taste!
Hot Sauce: I recommend using a classic like Frank’s RedHot for the best flavor. If you want it even spicier, try adding a splash of sriracha or using a spicy wing sauce!
How Can I Get Crispy Wings in the Oven?
Getting wings crispy in the oven is all about the right preparation! Using a wire rack allows air to circulate while baking, which helps to crisp up the skin. Here’s how to ensure they come out perfectly:
- Coat the wings in oil well. This helps the skin get crispy as they bake.
- Do not overcrowd the wings on the rack. Give them space to breathe so the hot air can circulate.
- Turn the wings halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping on both sides.
- If you want extra crispiness, broil them for a couple of minutes at the end, just watch closely to prevent burning.
Sweet and Spicy Brown Sugar Cajun Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, split and tips removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll be enjoying these flavorful wings in about 50 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner or snacks during game night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet and spray it lightly with cooking spray. This will help your wings achieve that crispy texture!
2. Coat the Chicken Wings:
In a large bowl, toss the split chicken wings with olive oil. Make sure they are evenly coated; this helps the skin crisp up when cooking.
3. Mix the Spice Blend:
In a separate small bowl, combine the brown sugar, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir it well until everything is mixed together nicely.
4. Season the Wings:
Sprinkle the spice mixture over the wings and toss them until they are well coated. You’ll want to see an even distribution of the spices for maximum flavor!
5. Arrange and Bake:
Lay the wings out in a single layer on the prepared wire rack. This spacing is important to ensure they cook evenly and get that desired crispiness. Bake for about 35-40 minutes, turning the wings halfway through to ensure they are nicely browned and cooked through.
6. Prepare the Glaze:
While the wings bake, whip up the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the hot sauce and honey until well combined. This mixture will give your wings that sweet and spicy finish!
7. Toss the Wings in the Glaze:
Once the wings are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the hot sauce and honey glaze over the wings and give everything a good toss until they are evenly coated. Yum!
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, chop some fresh parsley for a pop of color and garnish the wings just before serving. Now, dig in and enjoy your lovely sweet and spicy brown sugar Cajun wings with friends or loved ones!
Enjoy your delicious wings! 🥳
FAQ for Sweet and Spicy Brown Sugar Cajun Wings
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for quicker results. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy finish!
How Can I Make the Wings Spicier?
If you prefer more heat, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the spice blend or add a few dashes of extra hot sauce to the glaze. For a really spicy kick, consider using a spicy wing sauce instead of regular hot sauce!
Can I Prep These Wings Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can season the wings and place them in the fridge up to 24 hours in advance. This way, the flavors will meld beautifully. Just take them out and let them come to room temperature before baking!
How Should I Store Leftover Wings?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This will help maintain their crispiness!
