These Carolina-style wings are a bold fusion of North and South Carolina barbecue traditions, delivering a flavor that’s both smoky and tangy – perfect for any gathering. This recipe isn’t just about wings; it’s about bridging regional divides with a sauce so good, you’ll want to dip everything in it.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
The key lies in the liquid gold sauce: a masterful blend of mustard, barbecue base, and subtle sweetness that balances deep smokiness. The addition of baking powder ensures an unbelievably crispy texture, while the baked method skips the need for a deep fryer.
Key Ingredients & What They Do
- Chicken wings: Party wings are the easiest to use, but feel free to cut whole wings into flats and drumettes.
- Baking powder: This isn’t just about fluffiness. It breaks down proteins, rendering fat and creating maximum crispness.
- Yellow mustard: The heart of the Carolina flavor profile, adding tanginess and that signature golden hue.
- Ketchup: A nod to traditional Carolina barbecue, balancing the mustard’s bite with a touch of sweetness.
- Worcestershire sauce: The secret weapon for umami, smoke, and depth.
How to Make Carolina Wings: Step-by-Step
- Season & Prep: Combine cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Pat the wings dry and toss until evenly coated. Arrange in a single layer on a wire rack inside a foil-lined baking sheet.
- Roast to Perfection: Bake at 425ºF for 25 minutes, flip, and continue roasting for another 25–30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Craft the Sauce: While the wings roast, whisk together yellow mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Coat & Serve: Toss the cooked wings directly into the sauce until well-coated. Serve hot and prepare for compliments.
Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, refrigerate the wings uncovered overnight before roasting. The sauce can also be made up to 5 days in advance.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 448
- Fat: 24.1g (30.9%)
- Carbs: 25.7g (8.8%)
- Protein: 31.5g (26.9%)
The recipe is soy-free, dairy-free, egg-free, oil-free, peanut-free, alcohol-free, and shellfish-free.
These Carolina Wings aren’t just a dish; they’re a statement. A crispy, tangy, smoky masterpiece that redefines game-day snacking. If you’re looking for wings that deliver on flavor and texture, this is the recipe to make.
