Crispy Cajun [Dry Rub] Chicken Wings (2024)

Get ready to take your snacking to the next level with our mouthwatering Crispy Cajun Chicken Wings! These bad boys are baked to perfection, coated in a homemade Cajun seasoning with a kick of garlic. Learn the secrets to achieving the crispiest wings that will have everyone coming back for more! These crispy chicken wings are a family favorite, packing plenty of spice + delightful dipping sauce options! Air-fryer + Gluten-free option.

These Crispy Cajun Chicken Wings Are Finger-licking Delicious!

You've heard it from me before, and here it is again--- The quickest way to my heart is through a chicken wing. I'm always experimenting with new flavors and cooking methods for these delicious bites, and you can find all my wing recipes on Orchids + Sweet Tea. And now, presenting my latest love, these extra Crispy Cajun Chicken Wings, they'll have you doing a happy dance and coming back for seconds!

If you're a fan of chicken wings in general, then you must try theseBaked Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings,Sticky Gochujang Chicken Wings, and even theseLemon Pepper Cauliflower WingsandCrispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings/Bitesfor all of my meatless-loving peeps!

Succulent + juicy, with that perfect touch of spice, it's hard to believe that oven-baked wings can be this delicious. They stay tender on the inside and beautifully crispy on the outside, thanks to a few simple tweaks. The best part? If you're not the biggest wing fan, you can use whole pieces of chicken with this recipe, making it a win-win for everyone.

What is Cajun Seasoning?

Cajun seasoning is a distinctive spice blend hailing from the American South, particularly Louisiana, known for its bold and spicy flavor profile with a hint of smokiness. Essentially, Cajun spices can elevate the taste of any dish that could use a little heat and depth of flavor.

What Are The Two Types of Wings?

When it comes to wings, there are two types: Drums (a.k.a.drumettes) and flats (a.k.a.wingettes). The drums actually look like miniature chicken legs and have one single bone in the middle surrounded by meat, whereas the flats are “flat” and contain two smaller bones that runs the length of the wing.

How to Make the Crispiest Cajun Chicken Wings

In just three simple steps, you'll have those crispy wings you've been craving. First, we marinate; then, we coat; and finally, we bake! And these wings do not disappoint. I talk more about tips for making these wings nice and crispy, but let's talk about this cajun coating thanks to my Homemade Cajun Seasoning.

Ingredients

CHICKEN WINGS:

• Organic chicken wings, disjointed: The star of the show, providing the juicy and meaty base for your crispy wings.
• Cornstarch: It's the secret ingredient that adds the extra crispiness to the wings by creating a crunchy coating when baked.
• Smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky and slightly sweet flavor.
• Dried parsley: Brings a subtle herby note to the mix.
• Homemade Cajun Seasoning: Adds the spicy kick, along with a blend of various spices that bring that classic Cajun flavor to your wings.
• Garlic powder: Provides a savory garlic punch.

How To Make Homemade Cajun Seasoning

This cajun seasoning recipe is as simple as mixing all your spices together and takes just 5 minutes! Here are the simple ingredients that you will need for this recipe -

Ingredients

• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory kick.
• Italian Seasoning: Contributes a blend of dried herbs for complexity.
• Smoked Paprika: Infuses a smoky undertone.
• Sea Salt: Enhances overall flavor.
• Black Pepper: Provides a pungent, spicy element.
• Cayenne Pepper: Introduces fiery heat.
• Dried Thyme: Offers an earthy, aromatic note.
• Onion Powder: Imparts a subtle, sweet onion flavor.

Do I Use Cornstarch or Flour for Crispy Chicken?

OK, so this is one of the hot debates as it relates to which one creates the crispier chicken or chicken wings. While cornstarch does add an extra layer of crispiness to your chicken, using flour still works too if you don't have any cornstarch on hand!

But to be honest,the best-kept secret is the combination of both cornstarch and flour, whichcreates the crispiest results. Of course, if you're looking to make this fried chicken recipe gluten-free, then substitute the cornstarch or flour with arrowroot starch or a great gf all-purpose flour.

SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR BAKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THESE WINGS!

Here, I’vecurated a list of baking essentialsthat I use to achieve my favorite baked goods, especially with these Cajun Wings.Everything from my fave loaf pan, wooden spoons, parchment paper, and more.SEE THEM HERE!

How to Prep + Season Wings

Baking these chicken wings are generally an easy process—in total just 45 minutes. You first start by cleaning and washing your chicken pieces to ensure that they are clean and ready to be seasoned. I like towash my chicken wings with both vinegar and lemonto help keep things clean and sanitized.

Once your chicken wings are clean, then it’s time to pat them dry and season them! I’m all about seasoning every “layer” of my food, therefore, the chicken gets direct seasonings. Let everything marinate for 10-15 minutes or 1-2 days(or overnight tightly wrapped in the refrigerator)for the best results.

Do You Bake or Fry Cajun Chicken Wings?

Of course, both methods of making these Cajun chicken wings are effective. However, if you’re wondering whether you’d be able to also make these wings in an air-fryer—-then yes!

To make yourcrispy chicken wings in an air fryer, it's very similar to doing it the oven. The only difference would be the cook time and adding them to a basket versus a baking sheet. Once you've seasoned and dusted your chicken wings, add them to your air fryer basket, spray with cooking oil, and cook them at 360 degrees for 10-15 minutes. NOTE: You might want to spray your basket with cooking oil to ensure that your chicken doesn't stick to it during cooking.

As you know, this recipe is for baked wings and honestly, they’re just as crispy as using them in the air fryer--- so the choice is yours!

Why You Will LOVE These Baked Cajun Chicken Wings!

• Versatile snack, appetizer, or side option.
• Boasts of a great dairy-free + gluten-free option.
• Spicy + bold flavor combo.
• The perfect crispiness on the outside + juiciness on the inside!
• Addictively tasty + irresistible for the entire family.

Tips + Tricks to The Crispiest Cajun Chicken Wings

To make sure your wings get as crispy as possible without needing an actual "coating", follow these simple tips:

• After rinsing your wings, be sure to pat dry completely until they are as dry as possible before marinating them.
• Make sure each wing has plenty of space on the baking sheet or baking dish. The airflow helps things crisp up.
• When using a baking sheet, add a wire rack atop the parchment paper so that wings can crisp up nicely on all sides.
• Broiling your wings for about 5 minutes or so helps to get them nice and crispy without burning.

What Dips Go Well With Cajun Chicken Wings?

This cajun chicken wings recipe is full of flavor all on their own. But who doesn’t love to dunk and dip?

Serve your wings with any (or all) of these tasty condiments:

• Creamy Lemon Garlic Dressing
• In-N-Out Sauce
• Ranch Sauce
• Honey mustard
• Creamy Chipotle Dressing/Sauce
• Avocado Cilantro Lime Sauce
• Salsa verde
• Hot sauce!
• Jalapeno Ranch Sauce
• Pesto sauce

See Also

Cajun Spice Rub Recipe, chicken spice rubCajun Dry Rub Chicken Wings - Julia's CuisineCajun Dry Rub Chicken Wings Recipe - A Food Lover's KitchenGrilled Cajun Chicken with Homemade Seasoning - House of Nash Eats

What to Serve With Spicy Cajun Chicken Wings

Salads:Pair with a refreshing salad likeRoasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salador Fall Harvest BBQ Chickpea Kale Salad for a light and vibrant accompaniment.

Loaded fries:Create a more indulgent treat by serving the wings with a side of loaded cheesy fries or sweet potato wedges. Try theseBBQ Quinoa Taco FriesandLearn How To Make THE BEST crispy seasoned French fries

Coleslaw:Balance the heat with a side of creamy coleslaw, offering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Garlic bread:Elevate your wing experience with a plate of steaming hot garlic bread like thisCheesy Kale Garlic Breador thisHomemade Texas Toast Garlic Bread, perfect for soaking up the delicious orange sauce.

Rice or quinoa:Consider serving the spicy wings with a side of basmati rice, brown rice or thisVegan Quinoa Fried Riceto absorb the flavors and provide a fulfilling base.

Common Q + A's for Crispy Cajun Chicken Wings

More Appetizers + Handheld Recipes to Try Next!

Now that you're on a snacking kick with this Crispy Cajun Chicken Wings recipe, give these recipes that your entire family will love a try next.

• Crispy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings/Bites
• Baked Buffalo Chicken Tacos [Dairy-Free]
• Sticky Orange Chicken Popcorn Chicken
• How To Make the Best Charcuterie Board
• Dairy-Free Mexican Street Corn Nachos
• Jamaican Spicy 'Pepper' Shrimp

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

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