How Long to Deep Fry Chicken Wings for Perfectly Crispy Skin

Deep frying chicken wings results in the crispiest, crunchiest skin imaginable. When cooked at the right temperature for the ideal amount of time, deep fried wings develop a shatteringly crisp coating enveloping tender, juicy meat.

So how long should you deep fry chicken wings to achieve finger-licking, fall-off-the-bone perfection? Follow these tips for deep frying chicken wings until golden brown and delicious

Why Deep Fry Chicken Wings?

Deep frying is hands down the best cooking method for chicken wings if you’re looking to maximize crunch. Other cooking techniques like baking, grilling, or air frying just can’t replicate the ultra crispy exterior of deep fried wings.

When submerged in hot oil, the chicken wings quickly develop a browned, blistered, crackling crust. The hot oil sears the exterior while simultaneously cooking the interior.

Deep frying also cooks the wings fast. While baking can take over an hour, deep fried wings are ready in just 10-15 minutes. This makes deep frying an awesome choice for entertaining or whipping up an impromptu appetizer.

Finally, deep fried wings pack a huge flavor punch. The hot oil imparts its own richness and intensifies the chicken’s savory umami qualities.

Best Oil Temperature for Frying Wings

The ideal oil temperature for deep frying chicken wings is between 350-375°F. This high heat quickly browns the exterior before overcooking the interior.

Aim for the lower end of this range (around 350°F) if working with smaller or cut-up wing sections. Go for the higher 375°F for whole wings.

If the oil is too cool below 325°F, the wings will soak up grease and turn out soggy. If the oil is too hot above 400°F, the exterior can burn before the inside cooks through.

Monitor the oil temperature with a deep fry or candy thermometer. Maintain the heat by adjusting the stove burner if needed.

How Long to Fry Chicken Wings

The cooking time for deep fried chicken wings can vary slightly based on the oil temperature and size of the wings. Use these cooking times as a guide:

• Whole wings at 350°F: Cook for 12-15 minutes
• Whole wings at 375°F: Cook for 10-12 minutes
• Wing sections or drumettes at 350°F: Cook for 8-10 minutes
• Wing sections or drumettes at 375°F: Cook for 6-8 minutes

For the best results, fry wings in small batches. This prevents overcrowding which can lower the oil temperature and produce soggy wings.

Fry just enough wings to fill the fryer basket without touching. Repeat with remaining wings.

Signs Wings are Done Frying

Watch for these signs to know when the wings are fully cooked:

• Deep golden brown exterior
• Skin is crispy and crackling
• Meat pulls away from bone
• Juices run clear when pierced
• Internal temperature reaches 165°F

Use tongs to occasionally lift and inspect wings during frying. Check the internal temp by inserting an instant read thermometer into the thickest part of the meat near the bone.

Tips for the Crispiest Wings

Follow these tips for shatteringly crisp deep fried chicken wings every time:

• Pat wings dry before frying to remove excess moisture
• Fry plain uncoated wings for maximum crunch
• Chill wings before frying to dehydrate the skin
• Use a wire rack when chilling to allow air circulation
• Allow wings to rest after frying to set the crust

The dry coat and chilled temps help wings develop the crispest crust when submerged in the hot oil.

Best Flavorings for Fried Wings

Deep fried wings are delicious eaten as is, straight from the fryer. But you can also toss them in a sauce or dry rub to add flavor. Consider these options:

• Buffalo hot sauce – classic zingy, buttery flavor
• BBQ sauce – sweet, tangy, and finger-licking good
• Dry seasoning rub – spice blends add kick without the mess
• Honey garlic sauce – sweet and sticky with a hint of heat
• Jerk dry rub – Jamaican-inspired with warm chili flavors

Just avoid heavy breading or batter which can turn soggy after frying. Stick to light coatings and sauces that complement, rather than overwhelm, the crispy fried exterior.

How to Keep Wings Crispy After Frying

Fried wings will start to lose their crispness over time after frying, especially if tossed with sauce.

To keep leftover wings ultra crispy:

• Allow fried wings to rest for 5 minutes before saucing
• Toss wings in sauce just before serving
• Store leftover plain wings and sauce separately
• Re-crisp wings by baking or air frying before reheating sauce

The brief rest sets the crust so it doesn’t get soggy when sauced. Saving extra sauce prevents it from soaking into the crispy skin. Quickly reheating in a hot oven or air fryer revives the crispy texture.

Game Day Wings Worthy of Any Party

With the right technique, deep fried chicken wings make the ultimate party appetizer. Crisp, juicy, and full of flavor, they satisfy any crowd.

Fry up a batch for your next big game day gathering, birthday party, or anytime you’re craving finger food at its finest. Just be prepared for all the “oohs” and “aahs” over these shatteringly crispy beauties hot from the fryer.

Deep-frying chicken at 375°F typically takes 12-18 minutes, but the exact time can vary depending on the size and cut of the chicken. Smaller pieces like tenders will cook faster, while larger pieces like thighs or drumsticks will take longer.