Ingredients
- Chicken Wings, separated (3 lbs)
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup)
- Baking Powder (1 tablespoon)
- Garlic, minced (4 cloves)
- Fresh Rosemary and Thyme, chopped (1 tablespoon total)
- Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon)
- Kosher Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the dried wings with baking powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper until fully coated.
- Step 2: Arrange the seasoned wings on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet, ensuring there is space between each wing. Bake for 40-50 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Step 3: While the wings bake, prepare the Cowboy Butter. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, and red pepper flakes, and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Keep the butter mixture warm until the wings are finished cooking.
- Step 5: Once the wings are crispy, transfer them immediately to a large metal bowl. Pour the warm Cowboy Butter sauce over the wings and toss thoroughly until every wing is coated in the herby, spiced butter. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For maximum crispiness, ensure you pat the chicken wings bone-dry before seasoning; the combination of dry skin and baking powder is the secret to that coveted crackle.
- If you anticipate leftovers, store the cooked wings separate from the Cowboy Butter sauce, which can be easily rewarmed and tossed fresh later for optimal flavor delivery.
- To bring back the crunch, reheat refrigerated wings on a wire rack in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes; this prevents steaming and revives the crispy coating better than a microwave.
- Cut the richness of the herby Cowboy Butter by serving these savory wings alongside a crunchy, acidic vinegar slaw or a light lemon-dressed salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American