Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Sweet Cinnamon Wings?
They are a uniquely seasoned fried chicken wing dish featuring a balance of savory salt and pepper with a hint of sweet cinnamon sugar.
What inspired this recipe?
This family favorite was originally inspired by the creator's mother.
What is the main flavor profile of these wings?
The wings offer a light and crispy exterior with a flavor profile that balances savory salt and pepper with the nostalgia of cinnamon sugar.
How long should I soak the chicken wings?
The wings should be soaked in a brine for 30 to 60 minutes.
Why should I soak the wings in a brine?
Soaking the wings helps to remove impurities from the chicken before cooking.
How should I prepare the wings before frying?
After soaking, rinse the wings under cold water, pat them dry, and cut them at the joints using kitchen shears.
What parts of the chicken wing should I discard?
You should discard the wing tips or save them for making stock.
What can I do with the wing tips?
Wing tips can be saved to make a flavorful chicken stock for other recipes.
What ingredients are used for dredging?
The dredging mixture consists of all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper, lightly sprinkled with McCormick's cinnamon sugar.
How much cinnamon sugar should I use?
You should add cinnamon sugar to taste, ensuring it is sprinkled lightly over the flour mixture.
Why is it important not to use too much cinnamon sugar?
Using too much cinnamon sugar can cause the skin to become gooey instead of crispy during the frying process.
What type of oil is best for frying these wings?
Vegetable oil or peanut oil is recommended for frying these wings.
At what temperature should the oil be heated?
The oil should be heated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
What equipment is recommended for frying?
An electric skillet is recommended to help maintain the correct frying temperature.
How many wings should I fry at once?
It is best to fry about 8 to 10 wings at a time in the skillet.
Why shouldn't I overcrowd the skillet?
Overcrowding the skillet can lower the oil temperature and prevent the wings from becoming golden and crispy.
How long do the wings need to fry?
The wings typically take around 8 to 10 minutes to fry.
How can I tell when the wings are done?
The wings are done when they have reached a golden brown color and the exterior is crispy.
What is the best way to drain the wings after frying?
Drain the wings on newspaper or grocery bags to help maintain their crispiness.
Why shouldn't I use paper towels for draining?
Paper towels can trap steam and moisture, which can make the fried wings soggy.
Can I reuse the oil for subsequent batches?
Yes, you generally do not need to add more oil for subsequent batches of wings.
Do I need to make a fresh flour mixture for every batch?
You only need to replenish the flour mixture as needed if you are making more wings than the initial batch.
What are the best side dishes for these wings?
These wings pair perfectly with crispy fries or a refreshing side salad.
What wine pairs well with Sweet Cinnamon Wings?
A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio is the recommended wine pairing for this specific dish.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to yield approximately 8 servings.
What are the main seasonings used?
The primary seasonings used are salt, black pepper, and McCormick's cinnamon sugar.
Is this recipe suitable for game day?
Yes, these wings are an excellent choice for watching the game, hosting parties, or enjoying as a late-night snack.
Can I use a different brand of cinnamon sugar?
While McCormick's is suggested, any cinnamon sugar blend can be used to taste.
What is the category of this recipe?
This recipe falls under the Lunch/Snacks category.
How do I achieve the light and crispy exterior?
The combination of thorough drying, dredging in seasoned flour, and frying in hot oil at 375 degrees ensures a crispy finish.