The Secret to Perfect Crispy BBQ Chicken Wings – American Southern Style Meets Swedish Simplicity

There's an irresistible comfort in biting into a perfectly fried, crispy, and succulent BBQ chicken wing. If you've ever been to the heart of the South, you'll know that fried chicken is more than just a dish; it's a way of life. But did you know you can bring this quintessentially Southern comfort food into your home, no matter where you live? From the American South to the Swedish North, I've got a delightful treat for you: crispy BBQ chicken wings.

This mouthwatering dish is a harmony of Southern-style deep-frying techniques and Swedish simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can make these chicken wings that are tender on the inside, crispy on the outside, and smothered in delicious BBQ sauce. Plus, I have a few tricks up my sleeve to make this dish even more delectable. Let's dive in!

Southern Style Deep-Frying vs. Swedish Simplicity

When it comes to frying, there's a big difference between the southern US and Sweden. In the South, we love our deep fryers. There's something deeply satisfying about the sizzle of chicken wings hitting the hot oil, the aroma wafting through the kitchen, and that unmistakable crunch when you bite into a perfectly fried wing.

However, in Sweden, they take a slightly different approach. More often than not, Swedes use an air fryer, oven, or shallow frying method for a healthier take on frying. It's not unusual to find pre-made mixes on the shelves of Swedish kitchens, but nothing beats the freshness and flavor of a homemade mix.

By marrying these two cultures, we can bring out the best in our chicken wings. It's all about the balance—the depth of flavor and crispiness from deep frying, combined with the simplicity and ease of Swedish cooking.

Let's Talk About Chicken Wings

But before we get into the recipe, let's answer some common questions about making the perfect BBQ deep-fried chicken wings.

How Long Does It Take to Cook Chicken Wings in a Deep Fryer?

Generally, it takes about 10–12 minutes to cook chicken wings in a deep fryer at a temperature of 375°F (190°C). However, it's essential to avoid overcrowding the fryer to ensure even cooking. You might have to fry the wings in batches to maintain the oil temperature.

Should I bake or deep-fry chicken wings?

Both methods have their merits, but it depends on what you're looking for. Baking is a healthier method, but if you're after that signature crunch and rich flavor that only deep-frying can deliver, then frying is the way to go. Our recipe below involves deep-frying for that classic Southern taste.

At what temperature do you deep-fry chicken wings?

The ideal temperature to deep fry chicken wings is 375°F (190°C). Maintaining this temperature is critical to achieving that perfect golden brown and crispy exterior while ensuring the wings are cooked thoroughly inside.

Should I boil wings before frying?

While some cooks swear by boiling wings before frying to render out some of the fat and ensure the chicken is fully cooked, I find that it can sometimes lead to a less crispy finish. Our recipe involves directly frying the wings to achieve the ultimate crispiness.

Now that we've got the basics covered, let's jump into the recipe.

Recipe: Crispy BBQ Chicken Wings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken wings

• Salt, to taste

• White pepper, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

• Cooking oil, for deep frying

• Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce, for coating

Instructions:

1. Preheat the cooking oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).

2. Rinse the chicken wings and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and promotes crispiness.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine salt, white pepper, and black pepper. Season the chicken wings evenly with this mixture, ensuring each wing is coated thoroughly.

4. Carefully place a batch of chicken wings into the preheated oil. Be cautious not to overcrowd the pot to ensure even cooking. Fry them for about 10–12 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. You may need to fry them in batches to maintain the oil temperature.

5. Once cooked, remove the chicken wings from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain the excess oil.

6. In a separate large bowl, add Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce. Toss the crispy chicken wings in the sauce, ensuring they are evenly coated.

7. Serve the crispy BBQ chicken wings hot and enjoy them as an appetizer or main course. They pair well with a side of coleslaw, celery sticks, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Note: Adjust the amount of seasoning and BBQ sauce according to your taste preferences. Always exercise caution when working with hot oil to prevent accidents.

And there you have it! This recipe is a perfect blend of Southern deep-frying techniques and Swedish simplicity. Follow me on Pinterest and Instagram for more delightful recipes and inspiring food images.

Whether you're an experienced home cook or a newbie in the kitchen, you can never go wrong with this classic comfort food. With just a few simple steps, you can recreate the rich, authentic flavors of Southern-style cooking in your home. So why wait? Give this recipe a try today, and let me know how it goes!

Happy cooking!