When it comes to game day snacks, few things can compete with the scrumptiousness of boneless chicken wings. These bite-sized delights are perfect for sharing with friends, dipping in your favorite sauces, or simply enjoying on your own. The best part? You can whip them up in the comfort of your own kitchen, and they are so much better than the takeout version. With tender chicken breasts, a crispy coating, and a flavor-packed sauce, these boneless chicken wings are sure to become a staple in your home.

Reasons to Love Boneless Chicken Wings

There are countless reasons to fall head over heels for boneless chicken wings. Here are just a few:

Versatile Flavor Options: Whether you love spicy buffalo sauce or a sweet honey barbecue glaze, you can customize the flavors to suit your taste buds.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious snack that will impress any crowd.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From game nights to gatherings, boneless chicken wings are a hit at every event.
Healthier Choice: Using chicken breasts instead of traditional wings makes this a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
Kid-Friendly: These bite-sized pieces are perfect for little ones who love to dip and munch.

What to Buy

To make your own boneless chicken wings, you’ll need to gather a few essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for that perfect wing shape.
1 cup buttermilk: This will tenderize the chicken and add flavor.
1 cup all-purpose flour: For coating the chicken and achieving that crispy texture.
½ cup cornstarch: This enhances the crispiness of the coating.
2 teaspoons granulated sugar: A hint of sweetness to balance the flavors.
2 teaspoons salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken.
½ teaspoon black pepper: For a subtle kick.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory depth.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic flavor.
½ teaspoon paprika: For a touch of warmth and color.
Vegetable oil: For frying – choose your favorite frying oil.
½ cup buffalo sauce: For that classic wing flavor.
½ cup honey barbecue sauce: A sweet and smoky option.

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Large Mixing Bowl: For marinating the chicken in buttermilk.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Large Skillet or Fryer: For frying the chicken to golden perfection.
Tongs: To turn the chicken pieces while frying.
Paper Towels: For draining excess oil after frying.
Serving Platter: To present your delicious boneless chicken wings.

Make Boneless Chicken Wings: A Simple Method

Ready to dive into the cooking process? Follow these easy steps to make your own boneless chicken wings:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken breast pieces and ¾ cup of buttermilk. Mix well to ensure that all the chicken is coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight if you have the time. This step helps to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, granulated sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This dry mix will create a flavorful and crispy coating for your wings.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil temperature by dropping a small amount of the coating mixture into the oil; if it sizzles and bubbles, it’s ready.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let any excess buttermilk drip off. Coat each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating. Shake off any excess flour before frying.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use tongs to turn the pieces occasionally for even cooking.

Step 6: Drain and Toss

Once cooked, use tongs to remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. In a large bowl, combine the fried chicken with your choice of buffalo sauce or honey barbecue sauce, tossing to coat evenly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the sauced boneless chicken wings to a serving platter. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy these tasty bites with friends and family!

Swap Guide

If you want to get creative or adapt the recipe to fit your dietary preferences, consider these swaps:

Chicken Breast: Use chicken thighs for a juicier option.
Buttermilk: Substitute with plain yogurt or a non-dairy milk mixed with a splash of vinegar.
All-Purpose Flour: Try gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Buffalo Sauce: Use a sriracha or hot sauce for a different flavor profile.
Honey Barbecue Sauce: Make your own with ketchup, brown sugar, and a dash of liquid smoke.

Things That Go Wrong

Cooking can sometimes go awry, so here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

Oil Temperature: If the oil is not hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Use a thermometer to check the temperature.
Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy wings. Fry in small batches.
Uneven Coating: Make sure to coat each piece of chicken evenly for the best texture and flavor. Shake off excess flour before frying.
Under-Cooked Chicken: Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To ensure your boneless chicken wings stay fresh and delicious, follow these simple tips:

Storage: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze uncooked, breaded chicken pieces for up to 3 months. Fry them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Questions People Ask

Can I bake these boneless chicken wings instead of frying them?

Yes! To bake the wings, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray with cooking oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

What sauces can I use for boneless chicken wings?

Feel free to get creative! Besides buffalo and honey barbecue, you can try teriyaki, ranch, or even a spicy garlic sauce. The options are endless!

Can I make boneless chicken wings in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and coat it ahead of time. Store the coated chicken in the refrigerator for a few hours before frying or baking.

How do I ensure my boneless chicken wings are crispy?

Make sure to fry in hot oil, avoid overcrowding the pan, and let the fried chicken drain on paper towels. The cornstarch in the coating also helps to achieve that delightful crunch.

Let’s Eat

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to gather your friends, fire up the frying oil, and enjoy the mouthwatering goodness of boneless chicken wings. With their crispy exterior and juicy interior, these wings will be a hit at any gathering. So grab your favorite dipping sauces, and get ready to dig in! Bon appétit!