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Fragrant Spiced Chicken Wings

Bone-in chicken wings are seasoned with a blend of dried fennel seeds, smoked paprika, and cinnamon, then baked or fried until crispy. The dish features a crunchy exterior and aromatic, savory interior with a warm spice aroma, all achieved through dry cooking methods without sauce or frying in excess oil.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Global
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds chicken wings preferably drumettes and flats
  • 1 teaspoon fennel seeds crushed or ground
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for smoky flavor
  • 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon ground
  • to taste salt salt
  • to taste pepper black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil optional, for coating

Equipment

  • Baking sheet or frying pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Tongs
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Place chicken wings in a large mixing bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Add ground fennel seeds, smoked paprika, and cinnamon to the wings and toss again to distribute the spices thoroughly. Let sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or set up a frying pan with enough oil to submerge half the wings. Arrange wings on the baking rack or carefully place in hot oil in a single layer. For baking, bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until wings are golden brown and crispy. For frying, cook in batches for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until crispy and browned.
  3. Monitor the wings while cooking, looking for a uniform golden color and crispy edges. Listen for sizzling sounds when frying, and smell the warm, aromatic spices detectable as the wings approach doneness.
  4. Once cooked, transfer the wings onto a cooling rack or paper towels to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness. Let rest for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Arrange the wings on a serving platter, optionally garnished with fresh herbs. Serve hot to enjoy the crunchy exterior and fragrant spices inside.

Notes

Adjust spice levels to taste. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2 minutes.