Name: Crock Pot Chicken Wings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 180 min
Total time: 190 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds Chicken wings; 1 cup BBQ sauce (divided); 2 teaspoons Brown sugar; 1 teaspoon Sea salt; 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon Chili powder; 1 teaspoon Onion powder; ⅛ teaspoon Ground oregano

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The Crock Pot Chicken Wings are a family favorite in my household, especially during game nights or when we have friends over. There’s something about the tenderness of the chicken wings, infused with smoky and tangy flavors, that just draws everyone in. I remember the first time I made these wings; the aroma of BBQ sauce wafting through the house truly set the mood for an evening filled with laughter and good company. As the wings slowly cooked in the Crock Pot, I could hardly wait for the first bite. They were crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, and we couldn’t get enough of them.

What I love most about the Crock Pot Chicken Wings is how effortlessly they come together. You only need a handful of ingredients, and the slow cooking process does all the work for you. Just toss the seasoned wings into the pot, set it, and forget it! This recipe has become a staple for casual gatherings, and I can’t help but share it with everyone I know. Trust me, once you try these wings, you’ll be eager to make them again and again.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
3 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
180 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
340 kcal

Protein:
27 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Meat thermometer, Crock Pot, Small mixing bowl, Wire rack, Baking Sheet, Basting brush

Why Try This Crock Pot Chicken Wings

Effortlessness at Its Best

When life gets busy, the Crock Pot Chicken Wings shine. I adore how easy they are to prepare. With minimal prep and just a few simple steps, I can focus on other things while they cook. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want to relax after a long day.

Flavor Explosion

The flavors in this dish are divine! Each wing is coated in a delicious blend of spices and BBQ sauce, which caramelizes beautifully as they cook. The result? A crispy and flavorful bite that’s sure to impress anyone at your table. You won’t just taste the spices; you’ll feel them working together to elevate the dish.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the great things about these wings is how easily you can customize them. Whether you want extra heat or a different flavor profile, you can add your favorite sauces or spices. I often switch things up by experimenting with different BBQ sauces or adding a touch of honey for sweetness.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These wings are perfect for any gathering, from game day to family dinners. Everyone loves finger foods, and these are no exception. You can serve them as a hearty appetizer or make them the star of your meal. They’re always a hit!

Leftovers? Not Likely!

If you happen to have leftovers, which is rare in my house, they make for a great next-day meal. Just reheat them and enjoy!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Crock Pot Chicken Wings

To achieve the best results with your Crock Pot Chicken Wings, you’ll need some essential ingredients that work exceptionally well together. These ingredients create a wonderful flavor balance, allowing the wings to shine while still being well-seasoned. Let’s explore these key players!

3 pounds of chicken wings: The star of the show! Choose fresh or frozen wings according to your preference.
1 cup of BBQ sauce (divided): This adds the sweet and tangy flavor that makes these wings irresistible.
2 teaspoons of brown sugar: For that added sweetness that pairs perfectly with the BBQ sauce.
1 teaspoon of sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the wings.
1 teaspoon of garlic powder: Adds a savory depth to the dish.
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika: Introduces a subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
½ teaspoon of chili powder: For a hint of heat without overwhelming the flavors.
1 teaspoon of onion powder: Complements the garlic powder and adds more flavor.
⅛ teaspoon of ground oregano: Brings a hint of earthiness to the wings.

Making This Crock Pot Chicken Wings

Creating the Crock Pot Chicken Wings is as simple as it gets! With just a few steps, you’ll have a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the cooking process.

Start by preparing the rub. In a small mixing bowl, mix together the brown sugar, sea salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, and ground oregano. This blend is what will flavor the wings beautifully.
Next, take the chicken wings and season them generously with the rub. Make sure to coat both sides for maximum flavor. You can let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the spices.
Now, prepare your Crock Pot. Spray the bottom and sides with nonstick cooking spray. This will prevent any sticking and make for an easy cleanup later.
Place the seasoned chicken wings in the bottom of the Crock Pot. It’s okay if they overlap a little; they will shrink as they cook.
Pour half of the BBQ sauce, about ½ cup, over the wings. Toss them gently to ensure they’re well-coated in the sauce.
Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours or on high for 1 to 2 hours. The wings are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, so using a meat thermometer can be very helpful here.
After cooking, remove the wings from the Crock Pot and place them on a wire rack set over a lined baking sheet. This helps the wings crisp up nicely.
Brush the wings with the remaining ½ cup of BBQ sauce. This step is crucial as it creates that caramelized outer layer.
Broil the wings on high for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. If desired, flip them halfway through for even browning.
Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. The final result will be crispy, saucy, and absolutely delicious!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking Time: Cooking time can vary based on the size of the wings and how crowded they are in the Crock Pot. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
Resting Time: Letting the wings rest after broiling helps them retain moisture and ensures they stay juicy.
Broiling: Broiling is essential for achieving that crispy exterior. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
Storage: Leftover wings should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 to 4 days for the best quality.

Ways to Customize

There are countless ways to customize your Crock Pot Chicken Wings to make them your own! Here are some tips to help you personalize your dish:

Add Heat: If you like more spice, consider adding cayenne pepper or using a spicy BBQ sauce to elevate the heat level.
Different Sauces: Experiment with different flavors of BBQ sauce or even buffalo sauce for a tangy twist.
Glaze Options: For a sweeter glaze, mix in some honey or maple syrup with your BBQ sauce.
Garnish Ideas: Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro can brighten up the dish and add a pop of color.
Side Pairing: Serve the wings with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh salad to balance out the richness.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your Crock Pot Chicken Wings can be as creative as you want! Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:

Game Day: These wings are a perfect snack for game day! Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese.
Family Gatherings: The Crock Pot Chicken Wings make for great finger foods during family gatherings or potlucks.
Crispy Fries: Pair them with crispy fries or onion rings for a fun twist on dinner!
Salads: Serve them alongside a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and enjoy them within a few days!

FAQ

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen chicken wings for the Crock Pot Chicken Wings recipe. However, make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly. Frozen wings may take about 30 minutes longer to cook compared to fresh wings. Just ensure that they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.

If you want your Crock Pot Chicken Wings to be even crispier, the key is in the broiling step. After cooking them in the Crock Pot, place them on a wire rack and brush them with additional BBQ sauce. Broil them on high for 2 to 3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. This method gives you that irresistible crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy inside.

There are plenty of delicious options to serve alongside your Crock Pot Chicken Wings. Classic choices include celery and carrot sticks with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. You could also pair them with a refreshing salad or some crispy fries. For a more filling meal, consider serving them with baked potatoes or a side of coleslaw.

Leftover Crock Pot Chicken Wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool them completely before storing them in freezer-safe containers.

Conclusion

The Crock Pot Chicken Wings are a delightful addition to any gathering, offering a mix of simplicity and flavor that’s hard to beat. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next event or cozy night in. With minimal effort, you’ll create a dish that everyone will love and remember. Enjoy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to experience these wings for yourself!