Applebees Flamin Hot Cheetos Wings
If you’re a fan of bold flavors and crispy textures, then you’re in for a treat with these Applebees Flamin Hot Cheetos Wings! These wings are the perfect combination of crunchy, spicy, and downright delicious. Coated in a crispy batter and smothered in crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, they make for an irresistible appetizer or party snack. Whether you’re watching the big game or hosting a casual get-together, these wings are sure to be the star of the show.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
Once you take a bite of these Applebees Flamin Hot Cheetos Wings, you’ll understand the hype. They’re:
- Flavor-Packed: The fiery crunch of Cheetos combined with juicy chicken creates a flavor explosion.
- Perfectly Crispy: The double coating ensures that each wing is crispy, satisfying, and perfect for dipping.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these wings are accessible for cooks of all levels.
- Customizable: Adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce to suit your taste.
Ingredient Rundown
To make these mouthwatering Applebees Flamin Hot Cheetos Wings, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds raw chicken wings: Choose fresh wings for the best texture and flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This will create a crispy outer layer.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning the wings.
- 1 teaspoon pepper: Adds a hint of warmth.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For a savory depth of flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Helps bind the flour to the chicken.
- ½ cup milk: Enhances the batter’s consistency.
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce: Adjust according to your spice preference.
- 8 ½ ounces Flamin Hot Cheetos: Finely crushed, these will provide the signature heat and crunch.
- Hot sauce for serving (optional): For those who like it extra spicy.
- Ranch dressing for serving (optional): A classic pairing for wings.
- Celery sticks for serving (optional): A refreshing crunch to balance the heat.
Kitchen Gear Checklist
Before you start cooking, gather the necessary gear:
- Large mixing bowls: For preparing the batter and coating the wings.
- Food processor: To crush the Flamin’ Hot Cheetos into fine bits.
- Baking sheet: To arrange the wings for cooking.
- Wire rack: Allows the wings to cook evenly and become crispy.
- Deep frying thermometer (optional): If you choose to fry the wings for extra crispiness.
- Tongs: Essential for flipping and handling the wings.
Make Applebees Flamin Hot Cheetos Wings: A Simple Method
Follow these steps to create your own Applebees Flamin Hot Cheetos Wings at home.
Step 1: Prep the Wings
Start by rinsing the chicken wings under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This ensures that the coating adheres properly.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and hot sauce until well combined.
Step 3: Coat the Wings
Dip each wing into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, and finally dredge it in the crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. Press the Cheetos onto the wings to ensure they stick well.
Step 4: Arrange and Chill
Place the coated wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For optimal crispiness, refrigerate the wings for at least 30 minutes. This helps the coating set.
Step 5: Cook the Wings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the wings for about 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. If you prefer frying, heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C) and fry the wings in batches until crispy and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Once cooked, remove the wings from the oven or oil and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with hot sauce, ranch dressing, and crunchy celery sticks on the side for the ultimate wing experience.
Make It Year-Round
These Applebees Flamin Hot Cheetos Wings are not just for game day. Here’s how to enjoy them all year round:
- Tailgate Parties: Impress your friends with these spicy wings at your next tailgate.
- Movie Nights: Make them a staple for cozy movie marathons at home.
- Holiday Gatherings: Spice up your holiday gatherings as a fun appetizer.
- Cookouts: Perfect for summer barbecues when grilled for an extra smoky flavor.
Flavor Logic
These wings are a perfect marriage of flavors and textures. Here’s why they work so well together:
- Crispy Texture: The combination of flour and crushed Cheetos creates an addictively crispy exterior.
- Spicy Kick: The Flamin’ Hot Cheetos bring the heat, while the hot sauce adds an extra layer of flavor.
- Juicy Chicken: The chicken wings remain tender and juicy inside, providing a satisfying contrast to the crunchy coating.
- Cooling Accompaniments: The ranch dressing and celery sticks help to balance the heat, making each bite enjoyable.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
Planning ahead? Here’s how to store and reheat your wings:
Refrigerate: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: To freeze, place the cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheat: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat in an air fryer for the crispiest results.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before preparing and coating them for even cooking.
How can I make these wings less spicy?
Reduce the amount of crushed Cheetos and hot sauce in your batter. You can also serve them with more ranch dressing for a cooling effect.
What if I don’t have a food processor to crush the Cheetos?
You can place the Cheetos in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin or heavy object until they reach a fine consistency.
Can I bake these wings instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option and can still yield crispy wings if they are properly coated and baked at the right temperature.
The Takeaway
Applebees Flamin Hot Cheetos Wings are a fun and flavorful way to elevate your snacking game. With their crunchy, spicy coating and juicy chicken, these wings are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Easy to make and customizable to your taste, they’ll become a go-to recipe for years to come. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking! Whether you’re indulging in them on a quiet night at home or bringing them to a party, these wings promise to deliver bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. Enjoy!
Applebees Flamin Hot Cheetos Wings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prep the Wings - Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Step 2: Make the Batter - In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and hot sauce.
- Step 3: Coat the Wings - Dip wings into flour, shake off excess, then into egg mixture, and finally dredge in crushed Cheetos.
- Step 4: Arrange and Chill - Place coated wings on a lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 5: Cook the Wings - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 6: Serve - Remove wings and let rest before serving with hot sauce, ranch dressing, and celery sticks.
Notes
- For extra crispy wings, refrigerate coated wings longer.
- Adjust hot sauce amount for desired spice level.
- Use a food processor or rolling pin to crush Cheetos.
