Crock Pot Chicken Wings – If you’re craving tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken wings with big, bold flavors then this slow cooker chicken wings is perfect for a game day, a family gathering, or a casual weeknight dinner.
Why Crock Pot Chicken Wings Are a Game-Changer
Cooking chicken wings in the Crock Pot is an absolute game-changer. The slow cooking process infuses deep flavor into the wings, ensuring they stay juicy and tender. Plus, it’s a no-fuss method that frees you up to handle other tasks or simply relax. Here’s why you’ll love this method:
- Hands-off Cooking: Just set it and forget it!
- Ultimate Tenderness: The low and slow heat breaks down the collagen, making each bite melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Versatile Flavors: Easily customize with sauces or dry rubs.
The Perfect Crock Pot Chicken Wings Recipe
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating finger-licking good wings.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Crock Pot Wings
- Dry Your Wings: Always pat your wings dry to ensure they don’t steam in the slow cooker, which can make them soggy.
- Don’t Overcrowd: If your Crock Pot is too full, the wings won’t cook evenly. If necessary, work in batches or use a larger slow cooker.
- Finish Under the Broiler: If you want crispy wings, don’t skip the broiling step. It’s the key to achieving that crave-worthy texture.
- Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, transfer the remaining liquid from the Crock Pot to a saucepan. Simmer until it reduces to your desired thickness and brush it onto the wings before broiling.
Variations to Try
Crock Pot Chicken Wings are incredibly versatile. Here are some flavor ideas to spice things up:
- Buffalo Wings: Use classic Buffalo sauce for a spicy kick. Serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing.
- Honey Garlic: Combine honey, minced garlic, and soy sauce for a sweet and savory glaze.
- BBQ Wings: Use your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor.
- Asian-Inspired: Mix soy sauce, hoisin, ginger, and a dash of sriracha for an umami-packed treat.
- Lemon Pepper: Toss the wings in melted butter and lemon pepper seasoning before broiling.
How to Serve Crock Pot Chicken Wings
- Dipping Sauces: Ranch, blue cheese, or even a spicy sriracha mayo are perfect for dipping.
- Side Dishes: Serve with classic sides like celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a big bowl of creamy coleslaw. For heartier fare, pair with mac and cheese or crispy potato wedges.
- Game Day Spread: Include wings as part of a larger spread with sliders, nachos, and a big salad.
How to Store and Reheat
Storage: Place any leftover wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This helps maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the wings rubbery.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use frozen wings in the Crock Pot?Yes, you can use frozen wings, but keep in mind that it will increase the cooking time. It’s best to thaw them first to ensure even cooking.
2. How do I know when the wings are done?The internal temperature of the wings should reach 165°F. They should be tender and pull apart easily.
3. Can I double the recipe?Absolutely! Just ensure your Crock Pot can accommodate the extra wings without overcrowding. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
4. Can I make these wings ahead of time?Yes, you can cook the wings in the Crock Pot and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, broil them to crisp up the skin.
Crock Pot Chicken Wings
Crock Pot Chicken Wings - If you're craving tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken wings with big, bold flavors then this slow cooker chicken wings is perfect for a game day, a family gathering, or a casual weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- Chicken Wings: 4 pounds, fresh or frozen
Buffalo Sauce:
- 1 ½ cups Buffalo sauce (plus more for finishing)
- ½ diced onion
- 4 minced garlic cloves
- ¼ cup brown sugar for that irresistible sweet-heat balance
To Serve:
- Crunchy celery and carrot sticks
- Creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing
Instructions
- Mix Up the Sauce: Stir together the Buffalo sauce ingredients and set aside.
- Load Up the Crock Pot: Place your wings in a 6-quart slow cooker and pour the sauce over. Give everything a good stir to coat.
- For frozen wings: Cook on high for 2 ½ to 3 hours.
- For fresh wings: Cook on low for about 3 hours.
- Crisp Them Up: When wings hit 165°F, transfer them to a foil-lined baking sheet (discard the liquid). Preheat the broiler, brush wings with extra Buffalo sauce, and broil until crispy—about 5 minutes per side.
- Serve & Enjoy: Pile your wings high, add crunchy celery and carrot sticks, and don’t forget plenty of ranch or blue cheese for dipping!
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 562Total Fat 33gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 21gCholesterol 215mgSodium 1353mgCarbohydrates 9gFiber 1gSugar 7gProtein 55g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Chicken Wings are a foolproof way to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings with minimal effort. Whether you’re a fan of spicy Buffalo, sticky honey garlic, or classic BBQ, this recipe is endlessly customizable to suit your taste buds. Happy cooking and enjoy your wings!
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