Cajun Buffalo Wings: Spicy and Bold Chicken Wings with a Cajun Kick
When you’re craving a snack that offers a delightful combination of heat and flavor, these Cajun Buffalo Wings will definitely hit the spot. Imagine crispy golden chicken wings, deep-fried to perfection, then tossed in a homemade Cajun-infused buffalo sauce. With just the right amount of spice, you can customize the heat level to match your taste preferences, making this recipe an easy favorite for any spice lover. Ideal for lunch, a quick snack, or a party appetizer, these wings deliver a burst of bold flavors in every bite.
Recipe Overview:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch/Snacks
- Servings: 20 pieces (or about 4 servings depending on appetite)
- Calories per serving: 107.4 kcal
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 107.4 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.0 g |
| Cholesterol | 31.1 mg |
| Sodium | 154.3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 2.6 g |
| Fiber | 0.1 g |
| Sugar | 0.1 g |
| Protein | 4.9 g |
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic powder | 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cajun spice rub mix (see recipe) | 1 tablespoon |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Paprika | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Hot red pepper flakes | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Oven-dried hot pepper flakes or powder | 1/4 – 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Chicken wings (about 10-12 pieces) | 20 pieces |
| Celery sticks (for serving) | 1 bunch |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Fryer:
Begin by heating oil in a deep fryer to a temperature of 375°F (190°C). The oil should be deep enough to fully submerge the chicken wings. -
-
Prepare the Sauce:
In a small saucepan, combine the butter, hot sauce, and garlic powder. Place the saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until the butter is completely melted and the ingredients are well blended. Once the sauce is smooth, remove from heat and set aside. -
Coat the Wings:
In a large zip-lock bag, combine the flour, Cajun spice rub mix, paprika, cayenne pepper, hot red pepper flakes, oven-dried hot pepper flakes (or powder), and salt. Add the chicken wings to the bag, then seal it tightly. Shake the bag vigorously to ensure each wing is evenly coated with the flour and spice mixture. -
Chill the Wings:
Once the wings are coated, place them on a tray or plate and refrigerate them for about 1 hour. This resting time helps the flour adhere to the wings better, creating a crispier coating when fried. -
Fry the Wings:
Once the oil reaches the correct temperature, carefully place the wings into the hot oil in batches. Fry the wings for about 10 to 15 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and cooked through on the inside. Be sure to monitor the temperature of the oil to avoid overcrowding the fryer, which can lead to greasy wings. -
Drain the Wings:
Remove the wings from the fryer and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. -
Toss in the Sauce:
While the wings are still hot, immediately transfer them to the saucepan with the hot sauce mixture. Toss the wings thoroughly to ensure they are fully coated in the spicy, buttery sauce. -
Serve:
Arrange the wings on a serving platter and serve with generous portions of creamy blue cheese dressing and fresh celery sticks on the side. The coolness of the blue cheese and the crunch of the celery will help balance out the heat of the wings.
Tips & Variations:
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and hot pepper flakes. For extra heat, increase the amount of these ingredients or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Baking Option: For a lighter alternative, you can bake the wings instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for an evenly crispy result.
- Serving Suggestions: These Cajun Buffalo Wings are perfect for serving with classic sides like crispy French fries, coleslaw, or a chilled cucumber salad to help offset the spiciness.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the Cajun spice mix and coat the wings in advance, then store them in the fridge for up to 12 hours before frying. This makes it easier to prepare ahead for parties or gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These Cajun Buffalo Wings bring an exciting twist to the classic buffalo wing. The Cajun spice rub adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the fiery hot sauce, creating a deep, rich taste that’s sure to delight. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a spicy snack, these wings are quick, simple, and absolutely delicious. They’re the ultimate choice for game day, parties, or any time you’re craving something bold and satisfying.
Let the heat level be your guide, and don’t forget the cooling accompaniments – because when it comes to Cajun Buffalo Wings, the hotter, the better!
