Description
Juicy and flavorful chicken wings that start with a simple saltwater brine, ensuring crispy skin and tender meat—perfect for grilling, baking, or frying.
Ingredients
2 lbs chicken wings (whole or split)
4 cups water
1/4 cup kosher salt
2 tbsp sugar (optional for caramelization)
1 tsp black peppercorns
2 cloves garlic, smashed
Optional: 1 bay leaf, fresh herbs, or chili flakes for flavor
Oil for cooking (if baking or frying)
Dry rub or sauce of choice (optional after brining)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl or container, whisk together water, salt, sugar, peppercorns, garlic, and any optional aromatics.
2. Submerge the chicken wings fully in the brine. Cover and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours.
3. Remove wings from brine, rinse thoroughly under cold water, and pat very dry with paper towels.
4. Let wings rest uncovered in the refrigerator for 1 hour to air-dry if possible (for crispier skin).
5. Preheat grill, oven, or fryer to medium-high heat.
6. Cook wings until golden and cooked through—about 25–30 minutes at 400°F if baking, flipping halfway.
7. Toss with your favorite sauce or seasoning and serve hot.
Notes
Brining helps season the meat and retain moisture during cooking.
Be sure to dry the wings thoroughly to ensure a crispy finish.
Skip the sugar for a completely savory brine or adjust to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Brined and Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5–6 wings
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: brined chicken wings, crispy wings, juicy wings, party appetizer, game day food