Spicy Chicken Wings

Belizean Spicy Chicken Wings Recipe with Hot Pepper Sauce and Breadcrumbs

Region / culture: Belize | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spicy chicken wings are a popular dish enjoyed by many for their flavorful and fiery kick. This recipe combines the perfect amount of heat with a crispy coating that will have your taste buds begging for more.

History

Chicken wings have been a staple in American cuisine for decades, but it wasn't until the 1960s that they became popular as a bar snack. The spicy version of chicken wings gained popularity in the 1980s and have since become a favorite at parties, sporting events, and restaurants around the world.

Ingredients

1-2 lb chicken wings (900 g)
2 tbsp vinegar or 1 lime (30 ml)
1 tsp salt (5 ml)
0.5 tsp season all (or any other seasoning)
2 eggs
1 tbsp hot pepper sauce (or to taste) (15 ml)
0.5 cup breadcrumbs and flour combined (125 g)
0.25 cup grated cheese (2 oz / 56 g)

How to prepare

Clean the wings with lime/lemon or vinegar.
Season the wings with salt, pepper, season all, and hot sauce (or any other favorite seasoning).
Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°C.
In a plastic bag, combine flour or bread crumbs and grated cheese.
Dip the chicken pieces in beaten eggs, then place them in the bag and shake well to coat.
Arrange the coated chicken pieces on a lightly greased baking sheet and cover with foil.
Bake for about 45 to 60 minutes.
Serve as an appetizer or main dish.

Variations

Instead of hot pepper sauce, you can use sriracha, buffalo sauce, or your favorite hot sauce.
Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder for an extra kick.
For a milder version, omit the hot sauce and season with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to clean the chicken wings thoroughly before seasoning to remove any excess fat or debris.

- For extra crispy wings, you can double coat them in the flour and cheese mixture before baking.

- Adjust the amount of hot pepper sauce to suit your spice tolerance.

- For a smokier flavor, you can grill the wings instead of baking them.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the spicy chicken wings with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the preferred method for cooking these spicy chicken wings, but you can also fry or grill them for a different texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have lime, you can use lemon or vinegar to clean the chicken wings. You can also substitute the grated cheese with breadcrumbs or panko for a different coating.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the seasoned chicken wings ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. This is a great make-ahead dish for parties and gatherings.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the spicy chicken wings on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and extra hot sauce for drizzling.

Pairing Recommendations

Spicy chicken wings pair well with a cold beer, soda, or iced tea. For a complete meal, serve them with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover spicy chicken wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of spicy chicken wings contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of spicy chicken wings contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of spicy chicken wings contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of spicy chicken wings contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Spicy chicken wings are a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and cheese, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Spicy chicken wings are a delicious and protein-packed dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or main course. They are relatively high in fat and calories, so it's best to enjoy them in moderation.

Summary

Spicy chicken wings are a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a crispy coating and a fiery kick, these wings are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or main course for a delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Spicy Chicken Wings. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Lillian. We were sitting in her cozy kitchen, sipping on lemonade and chatting about life, when she suddenly jumped up and exclaimed, "I have the perfect recipe for you to try!"

Lillian rummaged through her collection of recipe cards and pulled out a worn piece of paper. As she handed it to me, she said, "This recipe has been passed down in my family for generations. It's a bit spicy, but trust me, it's absolutely delicious."

I eagerly scanned the ingredients list and instructions, feeling a rush of excitement. I had always loved spicy food, and the thought of making my own batch of flavorful chicken wings was thrilling. With Lillian's guidance, I set out to prepare the dish, following each step with precision and care.

The aroma of the spices filled the kitchen as the chicken wings sizzled in the hot oil. I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride as I watched the wings turn a crispy golden brown, perfectly coated in the tangy sauce. Lillian and I eagerly dug into the mouthwatering dish, savoring each bite with delight.

As we sat at the table, enjoying the spicy chicken wings, Lillian shared the story behind the recipe. She explained that it had been a favorite at family gatherings and special occasions, a dish that brought everyone together in joy and laughter. I could see the fond memories in her eyes as she spoke, and I felt honored to be a part of this culinary tradition.

From that moment on, the spicy chicken wings became a staple in my own recipe collection. I would often make them for family dinners, potlucks, and barbecues, always receiving rave reviews from friends and loved ones. The recipe had a special place in my heart, a reminder of the bond shared between friends and the joy found in good food.

Over the years, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to suit different tastes and preferences. I tried different spice combinations, experimented with alternative cooking methods, and even created a vegetarian version for my daughter-in-law who didn't eat meat.

Through each adaptation, the essence of the original recipe remained intact – the perfect balance of heat, flavor, and texture that made the spicy chicken wings so irresistible. I shared the recipe with anyone who asked, passing on the culinary tradition that had brought me so much joy and satisfaction.

As I look back on that day in Lillian's kitchen, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift she gave me – not just a recipe, but a connection to the past, a bond with loved ones, and a passion for cooking that continues to inspire me every day. The spicy chicken wings will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the simple pleasures found in a delicious meal shared with those we cherish. And for that, I am truly grateful.