To ensure that your marinade sticks to chicken wings, there are a few key steps you can follow. I've had plenty of experience as a sommelier and brewer, and I've also spent a lot of time in the kitchen experimenting with different cooking techniques. Here are my tried and true methods for getting marinade to stick to chicken wings:
1. Start with dry wings: Before you even think about adding marinade, make sure your chicken wings are dry. Pat them down with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the marinade adhere better to the wings.
2. Use a marinade with a thick consistency: Thin or watery marinades tend to slide right off the chicken wings. Opt for a marinade that has a thicker consistency, such as one that includes ingredients like honey, soy sauce, or barbecue sauce. The thicker the marinade, the better it will cling to the wings.
3. Marinate for an adequate amount of time: Allow your chicken wings to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but preferably a few hours or even overnight. This gives the flavors in the marinade enough time to penetrate the meat and also helps the marinade adhere better to the wings.
4. Use a zip-top bag or a container with a lid: When marinating your chicken wings, use a zip-top bag or a container with a tight-fitting lid. This allows you to evenly distribute the marinade and ensures that every part of the wings gets coated. Be sure to turn the bag or container occasionally to ensure all sides of the wings are covered.
5. Pat dry before cooking: Just before cooking the wings, remove them from the marinade and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps to remove any excess marinade that could potentially drip off during cooking and also enhances the texture of the wings.
6. Coat with flour or dry mixture: The key to getting the marinade to stick to your wings is to coat them with enough flour or a dry mixture. This helps create a barrier between the marinade and the wings, allowing it to cling better. You can use a simple mixture of flour, salt, and pepper, or get creative and add additional seasonings or spices to enhance the flavor.
7. Cook using the right method: Once your wings are coated with the flour or dry mixture, you can choose to either bake, grill, or fry them. Each method has its own benefits and can produce delicious results. Baking is a healthier option and can still yield crispy wings, while grilling adds a smoky flavor. Frying, on the other hand, gives you that classic crispy texture. Whichever method you choose, cook the wings until they are cooked through and golden brown.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your marinade sticks to your chicken wings, resulting in flavorful and delicious bites every time. Experiment with different marinades and cooking methods to find your perfect combination. Happy cooking!