Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings
There’s something utterly irresistible about Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings. They bring back memories of summer barbecues and cozy gatherings with friends. I remember one sunny afternoon, my friends and I decided to fire up the grill. We had marinated these wings overnight, and as we flipped them on the grill, the aroma wafted through the air, teasing our senses. Each bite was a burst of flavor, with tangy notes from the buttermilk and a kick from the spices. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a ticket to a delicious memory. That’s why I absolutely love making Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings for any occasion, whether it’s a game day, a casual dinner, or just a spontaneous gathering.
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
0 mins
0 mins
Medium
320 kcal
24 g
Keto, Gluten-Free
22 g
Mixing Bowl, Whisk
Why Try This Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings
A Flavorful Marinade
First things first, the marinade makes these wings truly special. The blend of buttermilk, cilantro, and various spices creates a rich, juicy flavor that seeps into every bite. I find that marinating the wings overnight not only enhances the taste but also keeps the chicken tender and moist.
Perfect for Grilling
There’s something magical about grilling. When you cook chicken on the grill, it develops a beautiful char that adds depth to the flavor. Plus, the smoke from the grill gives it that authentic outdoor barbecue experience that’s hard to replicate indoors.
Easy to Prepare
One of the things I appreciate most about Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings is how simple they are to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet. I love recipes that allow me to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with friends.
Versatile and Customizable
If you’re a fan of spice, you can easily adjust the heat level. Add more chili powder or chipotle chile powder for an extra kick! And if you prefer a milder flavor, simply adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a summer cookout, a game day, or just a special family dinner, these wings can steal the show. They also pair wonderfully with various dips like blue cheese dressing.
Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings Ingredients
When it comes to the ingredients for Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings, each one plays a crucial role in creating that mouthwatering flavor. The key players include buttermilk, which tenderizes the wings, and a delightful mix of spices that give it a Southwestern flair. Together, they create a harmony of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
- 2 cups buttermilk: This is the base of the marinade, providing creaminess and tenderness to the wings.
- 1/4 cup minced cilantro: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the dish.
- 1 lime, zested and juiced: Offers a citrusy tang that balances the richness of the buttermilk.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings an aromatic depth to the marinade.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: Adds a warm, smoky flavor that’s essential in Southwestern cuisine.
- 1 tablespoon Frank’s Red Hot: Introduces a spicy, tangy kick to the marinade.
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky flavor profile and adds a beautiful color.
- 2 teaspoons chipotle chile powder: Provides a rich, smoky heat that complements the other spices.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds an earthy undertone that rounds out the spice mix.
- 12 chicken drumettes: The star of the show! These are perfect for grilling and absorbing all those delicious flavors.
- Blue cheese dressing (optional): A classic dip that pairs well with the wings, enhancing the taste experience.
Instructions for Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings
Making Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings is a truly rewarding experience. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s sure to impress. Let’s get started!
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, Frank’s Red Hot, smoked paprika, chipotle chile powder, and cumin. The mixture should be well combined and creamy.
Pour the buttermilk mixture into a 1-gallon zip-top bag. Add in the chicken drumettes and securely close the bag. Use your hands to massage the marinade into the wings, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
Place the bag (zip side up) in a small casserole dish to catch any leaks and let the chicken marinate overnight in the refrigerator. This step is crucial for maximum flavor and tenderness.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat. The perfect temperature will ensure a nice char without burning the wings.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the wings on the grill. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the outside is crisp and the chicken is fully cooked.
As they cook, watch for the skin to become golden and crispy. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring they are safe and juicy.
Once cooked, remove the wings from the grill. Let them rest for a couple of minutes; this helps the juices redistribute.
Serve the wings with blue cheese dressing on the side, if desired. The coolness of the dip perfectly balances the spicy flavors of the wings.
Enjoy your Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings with friends and family. They’re sure to be a hit!
Things Worth Knowing
- Marinating is Key: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be. Overnight is ideal!
- Grill Temperature: A medium heat grill ensures the wings cook evenly without burning.
- Check for Doneness: Always ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Resting Time: Let cooked wings rest before serving to keep them juicy.
Make It Your Own
Everyone loves a little personal touch in their cooking! Here are some tips to customize your Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings experience.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking! Just thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling.
- Pairing: These wings go great with sides like coleslaw or corn on the cob. Try serving them with a refreshing salad too!
- Spice Level: Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili powder and chipotle chile powder. Go bold or keep it mild!
- Alternative Cooking Methods: You can also bake or air fry these wings if you don’t have a grill. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What to Serve Alongside Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings
When it comes to serving Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings, the possibilities are endless! Here are some fantastic ideas to complement your delicious wings:
- Coleslaw: A side of coleslaw adds a crunchy, refreshing contrast to the savory wings. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor are perfect companions.
- Grilled Veggies: Seasonal grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn make for a colorful, healthy addition to your meal.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs are a delightful pairing, offering a hearty element to the table.
- Fresh Salad: A light salad with greens and a citrus vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the wings beautifully.
- Dips: Besides blue cheese dressing, consider offering a tangy ranch or a spicy sriracha dip for variety.
- Occasions: Serve these wings at game day parties, backyard barbecues, or casual family dinners. Their versatility makes them suitable for any gathering!
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings are a fantastic blend of flavors and textures that will take your gatherings to the next level. Their ease of preparation and delicious taste make them a must-try recipe. So why not whip up a batch tonight? You won’t regret it!
Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together buttermilk, cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, Frank's Red Hot, smoked paprika, chipotle chile powder, and cumin. The mixture should be well combined and creamy.
- Pour the buttermilk mixture into a 1-gallon zip-top bag. Add in the chicken drumettes and securely close the bag. Use your hands to massage the marinade into the wings, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
- Place the bag (zip side up) in a small casserole dish to catch any leaks and let the chicken marinate overnight in the refrigerator. This step is crucial for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- When you're ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium heat. The perfect temperature will ensure a nice char without burning the wings.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the wings on the grill. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the outside is crisp and the chicken is fully cooked.
- As they cook, watch for the skin to become golden and crispy. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring they are safe and juicy.
- Once cooked, remove the wings from the grill. Let them rest for a couple of minutes; this helps the juices redistribute.
- Serve the wings with blue cheese dressing on the side, if desired. The coolness of the dip perfectly balances the spicy flavors of the wings.
- Enjoy your Buttermilk Southwestern Chicken Wings with friends and family. They’re sure to be a hit!
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Tip 2: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking! Just thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling.
- Tip 3: These wings go great with sides like coleslaw or corn on the cob. Try serving them with a refreshing salad too!
- Tip 4: Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of chili powder and chipotle chile powder. Go bold or keep it mild!
- Tip 5: You can also bake or air fry these wings if you don’t have a grill. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
