Pumpkin Spiced Chicken Wings are the perfect combination of savory and slightly sweet flavors, making them an excellent choice for a fall gathering, game day, or a cozy dinner at home. These wings are coated in a blend of pumpkin spice and smoky seasonings, then baked to perfection, creating a deliciously crispy texture with a hint of autumn warmth. If you’re looking to try something new this season, these wings are a must-make.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings (drums and flats)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the wire rack with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Spice Mixture
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, smoked paprika, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Season the Chicken Wings
- Place the chicken wings in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the wings and toss to coat.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture over the wings, making sure they are evenly coated. Use your hands to massage the seasoning into the wings if necessary.
Step 4: Bake the Wings
- Arrange the seasoned chicken wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they are not touching each other to allow for even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through, until they are crispy and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
Step 5: Serve
- Remove the wings from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, along with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, blue cheese, or a honey mustard glaze.
Cooking Notes
- Pumpkin Spice: The pumpkin spice blend used in this recipe brings a warm, slightly sweet flavor to the wings. Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices to suit your taste.
- Wire Rack: Using a wire rack allows the heat to circulate around the wings, resulting in even cooking and a crispy texture without frying.
- Cayenne Pepper: The cayenne pepper is optional, but it adds a nice kick to balance the sweetness of the pumpkin spice blend. You can adjust the amount or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder flavor.
Variations
Pumpkin Spiced BBQ Wings
- After baking, toss the wings in your favorite BBQ sauce mixed with a teaspoon of pumpkin puree for a sticky, smoky-sweet glaze.
Maple Pumpkin Spiced Wings
- Drizzle a bit of pure maple syrup over the wings during the last 10 minutes of baking for an added touch of sweetness and caramelization.
Air Fryer Pumpkin Spiced Wings
- Instead of baking, cook the seasoned wings in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the wings are crispy and cooked through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make These Wings Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can season the wings and let them marinate in the refrigerator for up to 8 hours before baking. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply. When ready to cook, simply bake as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through to maintain their crispiness.
Can I Use This Recipe for Chicken Drumsticks or Thighs?
Absolutely! You can use the same spice blend for chicken drumsticks or thighs. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as larger pieces will need more time to cook through—usually around 50-60 minutes for drumsticks or thighs.
Pumpkin Spiced Chicken Wings are a deliciously unique way to enjoy the warm flavors of fall. With their crispy texture and blend of savory spices, they’re perfect for gatherings, game nights, or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of pumpkin spices, smoky paprika, and a touch of heat from cayenne pepper creates a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Try different variations to find your favorite, and serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing dish.
Happy cooking, and enjoy these flavorful Pumpkin Spiced Chicken Wings!
