Ingredients

For the Wings:

  • 2 lbs chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt

For the Blue Cheese Topping:

  • 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp milk (to thin, optional)

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Extra blue cheese crumbles
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Sliced green onions

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack (optional, for crispier wings)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Tongs

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Wings

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top (if using).
  2. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the wings with baking powder, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper until evenly coated.
  4. Arrange wings in a single layer on the wire rack or baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch.
  5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. (Internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C.)

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and chopped parsley. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Blue Cheese Topping

  1. In a medium bowl, combine blue cheese crumbles, mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, and black pepper.
  2. Whisk until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add milk 1 tablespoon at a time to reach a drizzleable consistency.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 4: Toss and Assemble

  1. Once wings are baked, transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Pour the warm garlic butter sauce over the wings and toss to coat evenly.
  3. Arrange wings on a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the blue cheese topping or serve it on the side for dipping.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  1. Sprinkle extra blue cheese crumbles, chopped parsley, and green onions over the wings for added flavor and presentation.
  2. Serve immediately with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or your favorite side.

Tips

  • For Extra Crispy Wings: Refrigerate the coated wings uncovered for 1-2 hours before baking to dry out the skin.
  • Make Ahead: The blue cheese topping can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
  • Air Fryer Option: Cook wings at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
  • Spice Level: Adjust cayenne and red pepper flakes to your heat preference.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

  • Calories: 650
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 55g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g

Enjoy your Blue Cheese Garlic Bomb Wings, perfect for game day or a bold appetizer!