- Start by cleaning and patting dry the chicken wings. This will help in getting a nice, crisp skin when fried or baked.
- Season the wings with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure each wing is evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes or, ideally, overnight in the refrigerator.
- For the Bang Bang sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, honey, hot sauce, lime juice, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning or the heat level according to your preference. The sauce should be creamy with a kick of heat and a hint of sweetness.
Cooking the Wings
Chicken wings can be either baked or fried. Here are both methods:
Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the marinated wings in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, flipping once halfway through until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
Frying:
- In a large pot or a deep fryer, heat oil to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the wings in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the temperature of the oil and lead to soggy wings.
- Cook each batch for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Final Assembly
- Once your wings are cooked, toss them in the prepared Bang Bang sauce while they are still hot. This will help the sauce adhere better and soak into the crispy skin.
- Serve immediately, garnished with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
These steps ensure that your Bang Bang Chicken Wings are not just delicious but are also a showstopper at any dining table. Would you like to continue with additional information and detailed analysis on how to serve and enjoy these wings, including pairing suggestions?