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Brown Sugar Cajun Chicken Wings Recipe

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4.6 from 59 reviews

These Brown Sugar Cajun Wings are perfectly crispy and coated with a smoky, spicy Cajun seasoning balanced by a sweet caramelized brown sugar glaze. Baked in the oven, they deliver a delicious combination of heat and sweetness, making them an irresistible appetizer or game day snack. A garnish of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

Ingredients

For the Wings

  • 2 pounds Chicken Wings
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil

For the Spice Mix

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional)

For the Glaze

  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
  • Hot Sauce (to taste)

For Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon Chopped Parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray the wire rack with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare Chicken Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring they get crispy when baked. Toss the wings in a large mixing bowl with olive oil until evenly coated.
  3. Mix Seasonings: In a separate bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to evenly blend the spices.
  4. Season Wings: Sprinkle the spice mixture over the wings in the bowl. Toss thoroughly so each wing is coated with the seasoning blend.
  5. Arrange and Bake: Place the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack over the foil-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through baking to ensure even crispness.
  6. Add Brown Sugar Glaze: With about 10 minutes remaining, sprinkle the brown sugar over each wing. Return the wings to the oven until the sugar melts and caramelizes to create a sticky, flavorful glaze.
  7. Finish and Serve: Optionally drizzle the wings with your favorite hot sauce and garnish with chopped parsley. Let them sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to settle before serving.

Notes

  • Patting the wings dry before oiling helps achieve maximum crispiness during baking.
  • If you prefer milder wings, reduce or omit cayenne pepper.
  • Using light brown sugar helps in better caramelization for the glaze.
  • Hot sauce is optional; adjust according to your preferred spice level.
  • Wire rack allows even air circulation and prevents soggy bottoms.