Name: Cowboy Butter Chicken Wings Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes; 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on spice preference); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Optional: Hot sauce for serving

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

These Cowboy Butter Chicken Wings deliver a rich, smoky flavor with a perfect balance of heat and buttery goodness. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they’re an irresistible treat for game day or any casual gathering.

A white round plate full of spicy cooked chicken wings, showing about two layers packed tightly. The wings have a rich brown-red color with some darker crispy edges, coated in a shiny sauce. Small chopped green herbs are scattered evenly on top. To the upper right side, there is a small white oval dish holding four bright yellow lemon wedges. The setting is on a white marbled surface with a brown and white checkered cloth along the top left edge and fresh green parsley at the bottom left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 pounds chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on spice preference)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: Hot sauce for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Place them in a large bowl.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Pour the marinade over the chicken wings, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 5: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top.
Step 6: Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Step 7: Bake the wings for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 8: Optional – During the last 5-10 minutes of baking, baste the wings with any remaining marinade for extra flavor and moisture.
Step 9: For extra crispy skin, switch the oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Step 10: Remove the wings and let them rest a few minutes before garnishing with freshly chopped parsley.

Tips & Variations

For milder wings, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
Try adding a splash of lemon juice to the marinade for a bright, tangy twist.
Use smoked sea salt instead of regular salt to enhance the smoky flavor.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese for variety.

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 10-15 minutes to retain crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

A close-up of a round white bowl filled with fried chicken wings that are golden brown with a crispy coating. The wings are stacked unevenly, showing a rough, crunchy texture with small green herbs sprinkled on top. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and the background is softly blurred to keep the focus on the food. The lighting highlights the crunchy texture and warm colors of the chicken. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before marinating to ensure even cooking and proper browning.

Is it necessary to use a wire rack when baking?

Using a wire rack allows air to circulate and helps the wings cook evenly while getting crispy on all sides, but you can bake them directly on the foil if needed—just flip halfway through.