Awesome Almond-Crusted Chicken Wings
Highlighted under: Culinary Journey Recipes
When I first made these Awesome Almond-Crusted Chicken Wings, I was looking for a healthy yet indulgent snack for game day. I love how the nutty flavor of the almonds enhances the meatiness of the chicken, creating a delectable balance of textures. Baking instead of frying allows the wings to remain crispy without the excess oil, making them a guilt-free treat. Trust me, once you try these wings, they’ll become a go-to in your recipe repertoire, perfect for gatherings or simply a cozy evening at home.
Making these Awesome Almond-Crusted Chicken Wings was a delightful experiment in flavor and crunch. I knew I wanted a healthier alternative to traditional fried wings, and the almond crust delivered just that. After trying several variations, I discovered that toasting the almonds beforehand adds a wonderful depth, enhancing the flavor profile dramatically. This little step made such a difference, and I highly recommend it!
What surprised me most was how the wings retained their juiciness while having this satisfying crunch from the almonds. Pairing them with a zesty dipping sauce complements the nuttiness wonderfully. These wings are not just a recipe; they are a conversation starter that brings everyone together, making every gathering special.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crunchy and flavorful almond crust
- A healthier alternative to fried wings
- Perfectly juicy chicken meat
- Easy prep and cooking process
Mastering the Almond Coating
The almond coating is what sets these chicken wings apart from traditional recipes. Almond flour not only provides a delightful crunch, but its nutty flavor complements the chicken beautifully. For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the almond flour in a dry skillet for a few minutes until lightly golden. This enhances the nutty aroma and adds a deeper flavor profile that will make your wings unforgettable.
When preparing the almond coating, ensure all your dry ingredients are well-combined. This consistency allows for even distribution of flavors across your wings, preventing any single bite from overwhelming the palate. Be careful to season the mixture adequately with salt and pepper, as this enhancement will elevate the overall taste of the dish.
The Perfect Baking Technique
Baking the wings at 400°F (200°C) ensures they cook through while developing a crispy exterior. It’s essential to flip the wings halfway through the baking process—this promotes even cooking and prevents sogginess on one side. Watch for a light golden color and crispy texture; this is your visual cue that they’re nearing completion. If you prefer an even crispier skin, consider broiling them for the last few minutes; just keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
For best results, use a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate all around the wings. This technique prevents steam from accumulating underneath and enhances crispiness. If you don’t have a rack, make sure to give the wings enough space on the baking sheet so they aren’t touching—this helps them cook evenly.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Wings
- 2 pounds chicken wings, thawed
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
For the Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
Make sure to use fresh almonds for the best flavor.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the Almond Coating
In a bowl, mix the almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper together.
Coat the Wings
In another bowl, whisk the eggs. Dip each chicken wing into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the almond mixture. Place the wings on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the Wings
Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
Prepare the Dipping Sauce
While the wings are baking, mix the Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, sriracha, and salt in a small bowl until well combined.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the wings are nicely baked, serve them hot with the dipping sauce.
For extra crunch, broil the wings for the last 2–3 minutes, watching closely.
Pro Tips
- For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken wings in your favorite spices the night before.
Dipping Sauce Variations
While the creamy Greek yogurt base for the dipping sauce is fantastic, you can easily customize it to match your preferences. For a zesty twist, add some finely chopped cilantro or mint to the sauce. Alternatively, mix in different spices like cumin or smoked paprika for added depth. If you're looking for a little sweetness, consider adding finely minced mango or a touch of maple syrup.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with the acidity level in the dipping sauce. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar if you prefer a tangier flavor. Alternatively, for a citrus twist, you can incorporate orange juice or zest instead of lime. These substitutions can transform the profile of the sauce, ensuring it pairs deliciously with your almond-crusted wings.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store the chicken wings in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the wings before baking. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be baked directly from frozen; just extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, and keep an eye on them to ensure they are fully cooked.
When reheating leftover wings, avoid the microwave if possible, as this can make the coating soggy. Instead, reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through. To restore some crispiness, you can briefly broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes to refresh the texture while ensuring they don’t burn.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of flour instead of almond flour?
While almond flour gives a unique flavor and texture, you can use panko or regular breadcrumbs as alternatives.
→ How spicy can I make the dipping sauce?
You can adjust the sriracha amount in the sauce to your heat preference or replace it with a milder condiment.
→ Can I prepare these wings ahead of time?
Yes, you can coat the wings a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until you're ready to bake.
→ What side dishes pair well with these wings?
Fresh vegetable sticks, a light salad, or sweet potato fries make excellent sides for these wings.
Awesome Almond-Crusted Chicken Wings
When I first made these Awesome Almond-Crusted Chicken Wings, I was looking for a healthy yet indulgent snack for game day. I love how the nutty flavor of the almonds enhances the meatiness of the chicken, creating a delectable balance of textures. Baking instead of frying allows the wings to remain crispy without the excess oil, making them a guilt-free treat. Trust me, once you try these wings, they’ll become a go-to in your recipe repertoire, perfect for gatherings or simply a cozy evening at home.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Culinary Journey Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Chicken Wings
- 2 pounds chicken wings, thawed
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
For the Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix the almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper together.
In another bowl, whisk the eggs. Dip each chicken wing into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the almond mixture. Place the wings on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
While the wings are baking, mix the Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, sriracha, and salt in a small bowl until well combined.
Once the wings are nicely baked, serve them hot with the dipping sauce.
Extra Tips
- For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken wings in your favorite spices the night before.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 28g