Name: New Orleans Cajun Chicken Wings with Creole Seasoning Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1.25 kg / 2.5 lb chicken wings (wingettes & drumettes, cut up); 50 g / 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 garlic cloves, crushed or finely minced; 2 tbsp roughly chopped coriander/cilantro or parsley or sliced green onion; 1 1/2 tbsp brown sugar (tightly packed); 2 1/2 tsp paprika (regular/sweet); 1 1/2 tsp cooking salt or kosher salt; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 8 reviews

If you are craving bold, spicy, and irresistibly flavorful chicken, then the New Orleans Cajun Chicken Wings with Creole Seasoning Recipe is your perfect go-to. These wings bring a little slice of Louisiana right into your kitchen with their crispy baked texture, mouthwatering Creole spice blend, and a luscious garlic butter glaze that will have you coming back for more. Trust me, once you try this recipe, plain wings will never do the trick again! The vibrant spices combined with the savory butter create a uniquely addictive experience that captures the heart and soul of New Orleans cuisine in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A metal bowl filled with many small raw chicken wings with pale pink skin and some white fat parts, arranged loosely and filling the bowl about halfway on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these ingredients is simple, but each one packs a punch in flavor, texture, or color, making this dish come alive with authentic New Orleans flair. From the perfectly spiced Creole seasoning to fresh garlic and aromatic herbs, every element plays a crucial role in delivering an unforgettable wing experience.

Chicken wings (1.25 kg / 2.5 lb): Use a mix of wingettes and drumettes for the perfect bite-sized wings.
Unsalted butter (50g / 3 tbsp): Adds richness and helps meld the flavors of the spices and garlic.
Garlic cloves (2, crushed): Fresh garlic infuses the wings with aromatic depth and savory sweetness.
Cilantro, parsley, or green onion (2 tbsp, optional): Provides a fresh, vibrant finish when sprinkled on top.
Brown sugar (1 1/2 tbsp): Gives a subtle caramelized sweetness that balances the heat and spices.
Paprika (2 1/2 tsp): Adds smokiness and a beautiful red tint to the wings.
Cooking salt (1 1/2 tsp): Essential for bringing out all the robust flavors.
Garlic powder (1 tsp): Enhances the garlic profile without overpowering the fresh garlic.
Onion powder (1 tsp): Adds a gentle aromatic earthiness.
Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Delivers a mild spicy warmth.
Dried thyme (1/2 tsp): Brings a subtle herbal note reminiscent of Creole cooking.
Dried oregano (1/2 tsp): Contributes an earthy depth to the spice blend.
Cayenne pepper (1/4 tsp): The finishing kick of heat that makes this seasoning truly Cajun.

How to Make New Orleans Cajun Chicken Wings with Creole Seasoning Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F) or 180°C (356°F) if using a fan-forced oven. Line a large baking tray with foil and then cover it with baking paper. This simple prep step makes cleanup a breeze and also helps your wings crisp up beautifully without sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Creole Seasoning and Garlic Butter

While the oven is heating, combine the brown sugar, paprika, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, dried thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl to create your homemade Creole seasoning. In another bowl, melt the unsalted butter and mix in the crushed garlic cloves. This garlic butter will be the luscious caramelized glaze that coats your wings in irresistible flavor.

Step 3: Season the Wings

Place your chicken wings in a large bowl. Sprinkle half of the Creole seasoning over them and toss thoroughly with your hands to ensure even coverage. Add the remaining seasoning and toss again. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the wings and toss to coat every piece in that savory, buttery goodness. This double seasoning and butter coating step is crucial to building layers of flavor that define this recipe.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake the Wings

Spread the wings out on the prepared tray with the skin side up. Make sure they are in a single layer and not crowded – this allows the heat to circulate properly, giving you those crisp edges everyone loves. Pop them into your hot oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes.

Step 5: Baste for Maximum Flavor

At the 30-minute and 40-minute marks, carefully baste the wings with the juices collected on the tray. This step keeps them moist and infuses them with a sticky, caramelized burst of Creole-garlic-butter flavor. If the juices seem watery, don’t worry; you can baste generously again at the end for ultimate taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the wings are golden and crispy, remove the tray from the oven and baste one last time with the tray juices. Transfer the wings to a serving platter, pour over every delicious drop of the buttery pan sauce, and get ready to revel in the flavors. This is the moment to sprinkle your choice of fresh herbs and prepare for some serious finger-licking joy!

How to Serve New Orleans Cajun Chicken Wings with Creole Seasoning Recipe

A white bowl filled with many golden-brown chicken wings that have a crispy, shiny texture. The wings are coated with a sticky, reddish glaze that looks spicy and sweet. Bright green cilantro leaves sit on top, adding a fresh contrast. A spoon is above the bowl, dripping the thick sauce over the wings, creating a sense of motion and making the dish look very tasty. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped cilantro, parsley, or thinly sliced green onions are the perfect finishing touch. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also provide a fresh contrast against the warm spices, brightening each bite with a cool and zesty note.

Side Dishes

Pair your spicy New Orleans Cajun chicken wings with classic Southern sides such as creamy coleslaw, buttery cornbread, or crisp celery sticks with a cool ranch dip. These accompaniments balance the heat and create a full-flavored, satisfying meal that feels just like a festive gathering in Louisiana.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun, casual appetizer spread, arrange your wings on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper and scatter the herbs generously. Add small bowls of dipping sauces like blue cheese or remoulade to give your friends options. If you’re hosting a party, serve the wings in individual paper cones for easy, mess-free eating that’s stylish and convenient.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days and retain most of their flavor, though they taste best fresh. Be sure to separate the wings from any soaking sauces if you want to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

If you’d like to save some for later, freeze cooked wings in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Your New Orleans Cajun Chicken Wings with Creole Seasoning Recipe will keep well frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring back that crispy skin and irresistible aroma, reheat your wings in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the skin rubbery instead of crisp. Basting a little butter or sauce before reheating can enhance flavor and moisture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Creole seasoning instead of making my own?

Absolutely! Store-bought Creole seasoning can save time and still deliver great flavor. Just make sure to check the label for heat level and salt content so you can adjust other seasonings accordingly. Homemade blends allow for more customization, but either option works perfectly for this recipe.

What’s the best way to ensure crispy wings without frying?

Spacing the wings out on the baking tray so they are not touching is key. Also, basting with the pan juices during baking helps create that caramelized exterior that mimics frying. Using foil and baking paper prevents sticking and promotes even cooking for crispy, golden wings.

Can I make this recipe spicy or mild?

You can easily adjust the cayenne pepper amount depending on your heat preference. For milder wings, reduce or omit the cayenne. To kick up the spice, add a pinch more or include extra black pepper or hot paprika. The Creole seasoning is flexible and forgiving.

Are these wings gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients. Just be sure any store-bought Creole seasoning or other packaged ingredients are labeled gluten-free if you’re highly sensitive. Otherwise, these wings are a delicious, gluten-free treat.

Can I grill these wings instead of baking?

Grilling works wonderfully too. Toss the wings in the seasoning and garlic butter as instructed, then grill over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes, turning often and basting with the garlic butter. You’ll get slightly smoky, charred edges that complement the Creole flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this New Orleans Cajun Chicken Wings with Creole Seasoning Recipe enough if you love bold, exciting flavors that are easy to make at home. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings joy with each crispy, buttery, and spicy bite. So roll up your sleeves, grab your favorite dipping sauce, and dive into a dish that perfectly captures the heart of Louisiana’s vibrant cuisine. Your taste buds will thank you!