Slow Cooker Wings Recipe – Easy & Delicious
Slow Cooker Wings Recipe – Easy & Delicious
When you think about the perfect comfort food, slow cooker wings might just top the list. You’ll enjoy how effortlessly they come together, offering that satisfying crunch with each bite—even without the frying. This method not only simplifies the cooking process but also guarantees tender, juicy wings that are a hit for any gathering. As you prepare to make these easy, delicious wings, consider what kind of flavors might enhance your meal. The secret to achieving that winning taste lies just ahead, and you’ll want to know how to access it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When it comes to delicious and hassle-free meals, slow cooker wings hit all the right notes. You’ll love this recipe for several reasons. First, it’s a healthier option. By using a slow cooker, you cut down on fat and calories compared to deep-frying. Plus, the slow cooking process helps retain nutrients, making these wings a better choice for your diet. Additionally, cooking wings in a slow cooker allows for absolute temperature control, ensuring they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Convenience is another highlight. Slow cooker recipes are easy to prepare, requiring minimal supervision. You can set the timer and focus on other tasks while the wings cook. Cleanup is also simpler; you won’t have a greasy kitchen to deal with afterward.
Let’s talk about flavor and texture. Slow cooking guarantees tender wings that practically fall off the bone. The flavors penetrate deeply, creating a rich taste. If you like crispy skin, broiling the wings briefly after slow cooking does the trick. You can easily experiment with various sauces to customize your wings.
Finally, you get nutritional benefits. Chicken wings provide protein and iron while avoiding unhealthy trans fats. Overall, this slow cooker wings recipe combines health, convenience, and flavor in a way that makes it a standout choice for busy cooks.
History
Chicken wings have a rich and intriguing history that reflects their journey from a simple Southern staple to a beloved American delicacy.
In the 1920s to 1960s, deep-fried chicken wings were common in Southern cooking, often found at family gatherings and local diners. The real turning point came in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, where Teressa Bellissimo accidentally received chicken wings instead of necks. She then created the now-famous Buffalo wing, served with celery and blue cheese dressing. The concept of Buffalo chicken wings quickly became an instant hit and has been celebrated for its spicy and unique flavors.
While the Anchor Bar is most credited, John Young from Wings and Things also claims to have invented the concept.
By the 1980s, chicken wings gained immense popularity, particularly in sports bars with multiple TVs. Their affordable price made them ideal for sharing while watching games.
The 1990s saw major fast-food chains like McDonald’s and KFC introduce wings, further pushing their popularity.
Today, chicken wings are a staple in American sports culture, especially during major events like the Super Bowl. They’ve evolved from an inexpensive item to one of the priciest parts of the chicken, showcasing their cultural significance and versatility across various cuisines.
Recipe
Slow Cooker Wings Recipe
Cooking delicious wings at home can be a breeze with the help of a slow cooker. This method guarantees that the wings become tender and infused with flavorful marinade while allowing you to focus on other tasks. The best part is that you can customize the flavor profiles to suit different taste preferences, making it an excellent choice for gatherings.
Whether you’re prepping for a game day gathering or a casual family dinner, this recipe will aid you in achieving perfectly cooked wings with minimal effort.
With a blend of savory and sweet ingredients, the sauce pairs exceptionally well with the chicken wings, creating a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy. Plus, broiling them at the end gives the wings that coveted crispy texture, offering the best of both worlds.
Follow the steps and enjoy your homemade slow cooker wings!
Ingredients
- 3 pounds chicken wings (drumettes and wing flats, tips discarded)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil or non-stick cooking spray
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Cooking Instructions
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Begin by cutting the chicken wings into three pieces: discard the wing tips and keep the drumettes and wing flats. Rinse the wings and pat them dry with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
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Pre-coat the slow cooker bowl with oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the seasoned wings into the slow cooker.
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In a separate bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to create a uniform sauce.
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Pour the sauce over the wings in the slow cooker, making sure all wings are fully covered. Cook the wings on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-5 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Occasionally toss the wings in the sauce to guarantee even coating throughout the cooking process.
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Once cooked, remove the wings from the slow cooker and place them on a baking sheet lined with foil. Brush them with additional sauce from the cooker.
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Broil the wings in the oven for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they achieve a crispy texture.
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Serve the wings immediately with ranch sauce or blue cheese dressing as options for dipping.
Extra Tips
For a quicker option, consider using pre-cut chicken wings to save time.
If you’re short on time, frozen wings can also work; just make sure to cook them on high for about 3-4 hours.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different sauces, such as a homemade buffalo sauce or a sweeter BBQ variation by incorporating ingredients like maple syrup and apple cider vinegar.
Always allow the wings to rest briefly after broiling to improve their flavor and texture before serving.
Final Thoughts
Making slow cooker wings is an effortless way to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal fuss. You’ll find that preparation is straightforward. Just season your wings and place them in the slow cooker.
Whether you’re opting for BBQ, buffalo, or something more adventurous like chipotle-lime, the flavors can be easily adjusted. One of the main advantages is the tender, juicy wings achieved through slow cooking. If you like a crispy texture, consider broiling them for a few minutes after cooking. This adds that satisfying crunch, making your wings even more delicious.
You can also personalize your sauces—try creating a homemade buffalo sauce or experimenting with bourbon in your BBQ mix. Don’t forget to serve your wings with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese, along with fresh veggies like celery and carrots. Additionally, consider this method a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried wings, appealing to various dietary preferences.
Finally, remember to verify your wings reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F. If you’re using frozen wings, you’ll need to extend the cooking time slightly. Following these tips will help you create the perfect slow cooker wings every time, so plunge into this easy cooking method and enjoy!
FAQ
When you plunge into making slow cooker wings, you might’ve a few questions about the process, cooking times, or seasoning options.
First, for preparation, it’s common to cut the wings into three pieces: the wing tips which you usually discard, and the drumettes and flats that you’ll cook. Before cooking, season your wings with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Additionally, you can sprinkle a mix of spices like sweet paprika, brown sugar, and onion flakes to enhance the flavor profile of your wings.
When it comes to cooking, you can cook wings on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2.5-3 hours until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. For a crispy finish, broil them on a foil-lined baking sheet for 5-10 minutes after cooking, flipping halfway through.
You might wonder about sauce options. Whether it’s BBQ, Buffalo, or a custom blend, mix your sauce ingredients thoroughly. If you find your wings too soggy, always broil to achieve that crispy texture.
Lastly, avoid overcrowding your slow cooker and baking sheet for even cooking. Just remember, adjust your seasoning to taste and enjoy experimenting with flavors.
Happy cooking!
