If you’re looking for a way to elevate your chicken wing experience, then this Crock Pot Chicken Wings recipe is just what you need. It’s a fabulous balance of sweet and tangy flavors, thanks to the BBQ sauce, while the spices in the rub add a delightful depth that keeps you reaching for more. Made with minimal effort, this recipe is perfect for any occasion—from game nights to family gatherings.
Using a slow cooker not only makes the wings incredibly tender but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for an easy dinner solution or a host wanting to impress your guests, these Crock Pot Chicken Wings fit the bill perfectly. Imagine serving up a platter of sticky, juicy wings that have been slow-cooked to succulent perfection—your friends and family will be amazed.
With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can achieve wings that are packed with flavor and are absolutely irresistible. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on this delicious recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Chicken Wings
- Effortless Cooking: Simply season and let your crock pot do the work.
- Flavorful: Packed with savory spices and a sweet BBQ glaze.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for parties, casual dinners, or game days.
- Tender and Juicy: Slow cooking ensures the wings remain moist and delicious.
- Easy Clean Up: Minimal dishes and hassle make this recipe a favorite.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
To ensure your Crock Pot Chicken Wings turn out perfectly, start by prepping your kitchen workspace. Gather all the ingredients and tools you’ll need before you begin—this includes measuring spoons, mixing bowls, a crock pot, and a baking sheet for broiling later. A wire rack will also come in handy for allowing the wings to crisp up post-cooking. Make sure to have paper towels available for drying the chicken wings, as this step is crucial for achieving crispy, flavorful skin.
Prior to cooking, thoroughly clean and sanitize your workspace to keep everything hygienic. Be sure to check that your crock pot is clean and functioning well since the success of this dish depends on even cooking. Once you have everything prepped and ready, it will be a breeze to whip these delicious wings up in no time!
Ingredients
- 3 lbs chicken wings
- 1 cup BBQ sauce, divided
- 2 tsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ⅛ tsp ground oregano
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rub
Start by preparing your rub, which is the key to flavor-packed wings. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, sea salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and ground oregano. Make sure to mix the ingredients well, breaking up any clumps of brown sugar—this ensures an even coating when applied to the wings. A well-balanced rub can really enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Wings
Once your rub is ready, pat the chicken wings with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This preparation is crucial, as it allows the rub to adhere better, promoting a flavorful crust. Sprinkle the rub generously over the wings, coating both sides thoroughly. Don’t forget to massage the spices into the skin; this ensures every bite is packed with delicious flavor.
Step 3: Slow-Cook the Wings
Next, prepare your crock pot by spraying the bottom and sides with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Layer the seasoned chicken wings in a single layer at the bottom of the pot. To add some moisture and flavor, pour ½ cup of BBQ sauce over the wings. Toss the wings gently to ensure they’re fully coated. Cover the crock pot and set it to low for about 3-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours. The wings are done when they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 4: Broil for a Crispy Finish
While the wings are cooking, preheat your oven to the broil setting. Once the wings are ready, transfer them to a wire rack placed over a lined baking sheet—this will allow heat circulation for even crisping. Brush with the remaining ½ cup of BBQ sauce over the wings, setting the stage for that irresistible glaze. Broil the wings in the oven for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce caramelizes. If you like them extra crispy, consider flipping them halfway to get that perfect golden-brown finish.
Variations
- Protein: Experiment with other proteins like turkey wings or chicken thighs for variety.
- Vegetables: For added flavor, include carrots or celery in the crock pot for a more balanced dish.
- Spices: Try different spice blends like Cajun, lemon pepper, or herbes de Provence for a unique twist.
Cooking Notes
- Dry the wings thoroughly: This step is crucial for crispy skin.
- Don’t overload the crock pot: Too many wings can prevent proper cooking.
- Make ahead: You can season the wings a day in advance and refrigerate them overnight.
- Leftovers: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Serving Suggestions
- Complement your wings with a side of celery and carrot sticks for a classic pairing.
- Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Tips
- Use fresh spices: For the best flavor, ensure your spices aren’t expired.
- Experiment with sauces: Feel free to mix different BBQ sauces for custom flavors.
- Adjust cooking times based on your crock pot model: Cooking times can vary, so check the internal temperature of the wings.
- Use a meat thermometer: This ensures you achieve the perfect doneness without overcooking.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (low) / 2 hours (high)
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes, you can use frozen wings, but be sure to increase the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.
What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
Any of your favorite BBQ sauces will work! Choose one that you enjoy for the best flavor.
Can I use an air fryer instead of a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Season the wings as directed and cook them in an air fryer until crispy, about 25-30 minutes.
How do I store leftovers?
Wrap leftovers in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Chicken Wings recipe is truly a game-changer! With hardly any effort required and a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will steal the show at any gathering. The slow cooker does all the hard work while you enjoy the tantalizing mouthfeel and flavors of these juicy wings. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe out and feel free to get creative with your variations. Once you taste those delectable wings, you’ll want to make them again and again. We’d love to hear your thoughts on this recipe—please share your experiences in the comments and pass this delicious discovery onto your friends!
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Crock Pot Chicken Wings
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
If you’re looking for a way to elevate your chicken wing experience, then this Crock Pot Chicken Wings recipe is just what you need.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs chicken wings
- 1 cup BBQ sauce, divided
- 2 tsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ⅛ tsp ground oregano
Instructions
- Start by preparing your rub, which is the key to flavor-packed wings. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, sea salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and ground oregano. Make sure to mix the ingredients well, breaking up any clumps of brown sugar—this ensures an even coating when applied to the wings. A well-balanced rub can really enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Once your rub is ready, pat the chicken wings with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This preparation is crucial, as it allows the rub to adhere better, promoting a flavorful crust. Sprinkle the rub generously over the wings, coating both sides thoroughly. Don’t forget to massage the spices into the skin; this ensures every bite is packed with delicious flavor.
- Next, prepare your crock pot by spraying the bottom and sides with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Layer the seasoned chicken wings in a single layer at the bottom of the pot. To add some moisture and flavor, pour ½ cup of BBQ sauce over the wings. Toss the wings gently to ensure they’re fully coated. Cover the crock pot and set it to low for about 3-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours. The wings are done when they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
- While the wings are cooking, preheat your oven to the broil setting. Once the wings are ready, transfer them to a wire rack placed over a lined baking sheet—this will allow heat circulation for even crisping. Brush with the remaining ½ cup of BBQ sauce over the wings, setting the stage for that irresistible glaze. Broil the wings in the oven for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce caramelizes. If you like them extra crispy, consider flipping them halfway to get that perfect golden-brown finish.
Notes
Dry the wings thoroughly: This step is crucial for crispy skin. Don’t overload the crock pot: Too many wings can prevent proper cooking. Make ahead: You can season the wings a day in advance and refrigerate them overnight. Leftovers: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (low) / 2 hours (high)
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 30 g