The Ultimate Guide to Crispy Fried Chicken Wings: Perfect Every Time!

Step 1

First things first, you gotta get your oil ready. Fill a large, heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or deep fryer with oil—about 1/3 of the way full. You want enough oil to fully submerge the wings, but not so much that it’ll bubble over when you drop 'em in. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (177°C). I recommend using a thermometer to keep an eye on the temperature—it’s key to getting that perfect golden-brown crust.

Step 2

While your oil is heating, it’s time to prep the wings. Start by separating your chicken wings into drumettes and flats, if they aren’t already. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture—this step is crucial for getting that crispy skin.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, or if you prefer, a gallon-sized zip-top bag, combine your seasonings. Toss in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika, along with the flour and cornstarch. This flour-cornstarch combo is gonna give your wings that extra crunch when fried.

Step 4

Now that your seasoning mix is ready, it’s time to dredge those wings. Lightly coat each wing in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure to shake off any excess. You want just enough to give the wings a nice crust, but not so much that it weighs them down.

Step 5

This step right here is where the magic happens! Fry your wings in small batches, about 8 wings at a time. Carefully lower the wings into the hot oil and let them fry for about 8-10 minutes, or until they’re golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. Make sure you don’t overcrowd the pan—if you do, the oil temperature will drop, and your wings won’t crisp up like they should.

Step 6

Once your wings are done frying, use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer them to a baking sheet fitted with a wire rack or lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. Let them rest for a minute or two before serving. This step helps lock in the juices and keeps them crispy.

Step 7

Now comes the fun part—serving up those wings! Whether you’re a fan of Buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, or even just a simple ranch dip, these wings are ready for any flavor you wanna throw at 'em. Serve ‘em hot and watch your guests go crazy for 'em!