Crispy barbecue chicken wings are a favorite for many, offering a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors with a satisfyingly crunchy exterior. Cooking them in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also enhances the flavors by sealing in moisture and spices. Whether you’re hosting a game day or just craving a delicious snack, these Instant Pot crispy barbecue chicken wings are sure to please everyone.
Origins and Interesting Facts
Chicken wings have been a staple in American cuisine since the mid-20th century, with Buffalo wings being the most famous variety. The idea of cooking wings in an Instant Pot brings a modern twist to this classic dish, making it easier and faster to achieve crispy perfection. By using the Instant Pot, you can significantly reduce cooking time while still achieving that crispy texture typically associated with deep frying or broiling.
Ingredients
To make these irresistible Instant Pot crispy barbecue chicken wings, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (choose your favorite brand or make your own)
- 1/4 cup honey (for added sweetness)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (for a savory depth)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (for a smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (to enhance the savory notes)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (to add complexity)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/2 cup water (to create steam in the Instant Pot)
- Olive oil spray (for the finishing crisp)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
- Rinse and Pat Dry: If using fresh chicken wings, rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. If using frozen wings, skip this step.
- Season the Wings: In a large bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the wings in the seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook in the Instant Pot
- Add Water: Pour 1/2 cup of water into the Instant Pot to create steam.
- Arrange the Wings: Place a trivet or steamer basket inside the Instant Pot and arrange the chicken wings in a single layer on top.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and select the ‘Pressure Cook’ or ‘Manual’ setting. Set the timer for 10 minutes for fresh wings or 15 minutes for frozen wings.
- Natural Release: Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes before carefully performing a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
Step 3: Sauce and Crisp the Wings
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, honey, and soy sauce.
- Coat the Wings: Remove the cooked wings from the Instant Pot and place them in a large bowl. Pour the sauce mixture over the wings and toss to coat evenly.
- Crisp the Wings: Preheat your oven’s broiler. Arrange the sauced wings on a baking sheet lined with foil and lightly spray them with olive oil. Broil for 5-7 minutes or until the wings are crispy and caramelized, turning halfway through for even crisping.
Tips and Variations
- Instant Pot Chicken Wings Three Ways: Experiment with different sauces and seasonings for variety. Try buffalo sauce, teriyaki glaze, or honey mustard for a twist on the classic barbecue flavor.
- No Broiling Option: If you prefer not to use the broiler, you can use an air fryer to crisp the wings. Simply air fry the sauced wings at 400°F for 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Cooking Times: For 2 lbs of chicken wings, follow the times mentioned above. For a larger batch, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
- Frozen Wings: Cooking frozen wings in the Instant Pot requires an additional 5 minutes of pressure cooking time compared to fresh wings. Ensure they are evenly spaced for even cooking.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these crispy wings with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, and carrot sticks for a classic wing experience.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 15g
These Instant Pot crispy barbecue chicken wings are a delightful treat that combines the best of flavor and convenience. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Try out different variations to find your perfect flavor combination and share your experiences with us in the comments below. Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes on Easy Crispy Recipes, and subscribe to our newsletter for more mouthwatering ideas.