How to make perfect chicken wings hours before the party: a step-by-step guide
What To Know
- Place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through but still slightly pink inside.
- Place the thawed wings on a baking sheet or grill grate and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy.
- Place the wings on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
Planning a party or gathering? Chicken wings are an easy crowd-pleaser that can be made ahead of time, saving you stress on the day of your event. Follow these simple steps to master the art of prepping chicken wings in advance.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Chicken wings (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- Salt and pepper
- Your favorite seasonings or marinade
Step 1: Brining the Wings
Brining is a technique that adds flavor and moisture to the chicken. For best results, brine the wings overnight or for up to 24 hours.
To create a simple brine solution, dissolve 1/4 cup of salt in 4 cups of water. Submerge the wings in the solution and refrigerate.
Step 2: Seasoning the Wings
After brining, remove the wings from the solution and pat them dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your desired seasonings.
For a classic flavor, use a mixture of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with different marinades, such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or teriyaki.
Step 3: Par-Cooking the Wings
Par-cooking the wings before freezing will ensure that they cook evenly and thoroughly when you reheat them.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through but still slightly pink inside.
Step 4: Cooling the Wings
Once the wings are par-cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely. This will help prevent them from freezing together.
Step 5: Freezing the Wings
Place the cooled wings in a freezer-safe container or bag. Label the container with the date and contents. The wings can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Step 6: Reheating the Wings
When you’re ready to serve, thaw the wings in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water for several hours.
Preheat your oven or grill to 400°F (200°C). Place the thawed wings on a baking sheet or grill grate and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy.
Seasoning the Wings Again
If you prefer, you can season the wings again before reheating them. This will give them an extra burst of flavor.
Perfect Pairing: Dipping Sauces
Chicken wings are incomplete without dipping sauces. Here are some popular options:
- Ranch dressing
- Blue cheese dressing
- Barbecue sauce
- Honey mustard
- Sweet and sour sauce
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I freeze raw chicken wings without brining them first?
A: Yes, but brining adds flavor and moisture. If you choose not to brine, season the wings liberally before freezing.
Q: How long can I store frozen chicken wings?
A: Frozen chicken wings can be stored for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I reheat chicken wings in the microwave?
A: While it’s not recommended, you can reheat chicken wings in the microwave. Place the wings on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Be sure to check the wings regularly to prevent overcooking.