Ingredients

For the Wings:

  • 2 lbs (about 900g) chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheetos Coating:

  • 1 (8.5 oz) bag Flamin’ Hot Cheetos
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Wet Batter:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)

For the Optional Dipping Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 2 tablespoons hot sauce
  • 1 teaspoon crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos (for garnish)

Equipment

  • Food processor or blender
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet with a wire rack
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil
  • Tongs

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Wings

  1. Dry the Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve crispy skin.
  2. Season the Wings: In a large bowl, toss the wings with baking powder, kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Ensure the wings are evenly coated.
  3. Chill (Optional): For extra crispy wings, place the seasoned wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and refrigerate uncovered for 1-2 hours to dry out the skin.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheetos Coating

  1. Crush the Cheetos: Place the Flamin’ Hot Cheetos in a food processor or blender and pulse until they form fine crumbs. Alternatively, place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
  2. Mix the Coating: In a large bowl, combine the Cheetos crumbs, flour, cayenne pepper (if using), and paprika. Stir well to mix.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Batter

  1. Whisk the Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and hot sauce until smooth.

Step 4: Coat the Wings

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top.
  2. Dip the Wings: Working one at a time, dip each wing into the wet batter, letting excess drip off. Then, roll the wing in the Cheetos coating, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs. Place the coated wing on the wire rack.
  3. Repeat: Continue until all wings are coated.

Step 5: Bake the Wings

  1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through, until they are crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  2. Check for Crispiness: If the coating isn’t crispy enough, broil the wings for 1-2 minutes per side, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 6: Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional)

  1. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine ranch dressing and hot sauce. Sprinkle crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos on top for extra flair.

Step 7: Serve

  1. Plate the Wings: Transfer the baked wings to a serving platter.
  2. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle extra Cheetos crumbs over the wings for added crunch and color.
  3. Serve: Serve hot with the dipping sauce on the side, along with celery sticks or carrot sticks for a cooling contrast.

Tips

  • Make Ahead: You can season the wings and prepare the Cheetos coating in advance. Store the coating in an airtight container until ready to use.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less cayenne pepper or hot sauce. The Flamin’ Hot Cheetos already pack a punch, so taste-test the coating before adding extra spice.
  • Storage: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-12 minutes to restore crispiness.
  • Alternative Cooking Method: For a fried version, deep-fry the coated wings in 350°F (175°C) oil for 8-10 minutes instead of baking.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)

  • Serving Size: 4 wings
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Sodium: 900mg

Servings

  • Yields: 4-6 servings
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour (plus optional chilling time)

Enjoy your fiery, crunchy Flamin’ Hot Cheetos Wings!