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Homemade Sweet Tea-Brined Hot Chicken Wings recipe photo
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Sweet Tea-Brined Hot Chicken Wings

Crispy, spicy chicken wings brined in sweet tea for extra flavor and juiciness.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time8 hours
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups brewed sweet tea
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 tablespoon smoked salt
  • 2 pounds chicken wings
  • 2 teaspoons ground cayenne
  • 1 teaspoon ancho chile powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked salt
  • cooking spray as needed
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil

Instructions

  • The night before serving, warm the brewed sweet tea in a microwave-safe measuring cup until pleasantly warm (about 45 seconds). Stir in the kosher salt and 1/2 tablespoon smoked salt until dissolved, then add a few ice cubes to cool the brine to room temperature.
  • Place the chicken wings in a medium bowl and pour the cooled brine over them. Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours.
  • After brining, remove the wings from the brine and discard the brine. Pat the wings dry with paper towels, then arrange them on a baking rack set inside a half-sheet pan. Leave the wings uncovered in the refrigerator for 6 to 8 hours to dry the skin.
  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place an oven-safe wire rack inside, then spray the rack with cooking spray.
  • In a small bowl, mix the cayenne, ancho chile powder, garlic powder, paprika, 1/4 teaspoon smoked salt, and black pepper.
  • In a large bowl, toss the dried wings with 1 tablespoon canola oil to coat. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the wings and toss until evenly coated.
  • Arrange the wings on the prepared rack so they do not touch. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the skin is browned and the tips are crispy.
  • Remove from the oven and serve warm.

Equipment

  • Measuring cup
  • Microwave (optional)
  • Medium Bowl
  • Paper Towels
  • half-sheet pan or baking sheet
  • wire baking rack
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Oven

Notes

  • Brining overnight yields the best flavor.
  • Drying the wings in the fridge helps them crisp in the oven.
  • Adjust cayenne to taste for spiciness.
  • Use a wire rack so air circulates around the wings.