How to Bake Thawed Chicken Wings
Frozen meat and poultry products are convenient choices that eliminate the pressure to cook them immediately or end up throwing them away. Although chicken wings are smaller than other cuts of chicken, they still offer a significant source of protein.
Frozen meat and poultry products are convenient choices that eliminate the pressure to cook them immediately or end up throwing them away. Although chicken wings are smaller than other cuts of chicken, they still offer a significant source of protein. You may have shied away from purchasing frozen chicken wings because of some intimidation around cooking them. However, once they are thawed properly, the process for baking them mimics that of fresh chicken wings.
Thaw and Basic Preparation
Step 1
Thaw the frozen chicken wings. This can be done in two ways. For the first method, place the bag of frozen chicken wings in a bowl and move them to the refrigerator until they thaw. This can take between 10 and 24 hours. If you have less time, remove the frozen chicken wings from the bag and place them in a bowl with enough cool water to cover them. Every 30 minutes, pour out the water and replace it with more cool water. Repeat this until the wings separate and no longer have ice on them.
Step 2
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 3
Drain the excess water off the chicken wings and use a clean paper towel to blot water off the exterior of the wings. If the wings are wet, it makes it difficult to get the seasonings to adhere to them.
Step 4
Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken wings. Salt and pepper are basic seasonings to build the flavor for the meat. If you prefer a simple form of seasoning, salt and pepper may be enough for you. If you prefer bolder flavors, add other seasonings or sauces before you cook them.
Step 5
Arrange the chicken wings on a baking sheet if you are satisfied with the salt and pepper as a seasoning option. Cook for one hour, or until the wings are crispy and cooked through.
Additional Seasoning Techniques
Step 1
Choose an additional seasoning such as curry powder, chili powder, lemon pepper, Italian seasoning or seasoning salt to each side of the chicken wings. These seasonings are added in conjunction with the salt and pepper to develop the flavor.
Step 2
Sprinkle each side of the chicken wings with the seasoning or rub the seasoning onto each side of the wings for a more concentrated flavor. Rub it on sparingly to prevent overseasoning the chicken wings.
Step 3
Cook as directed, for one hour or until the chicken wings are cooked through and lightly browned.
Adding Sauce
Step 1
Thaw and season the chicken wings with salt and pepper.
Step 2
Arrange the wings on a baking sheet and cook at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 minutes.
Step 3
Remove the wings from the oven and brush each side with a sauce such as barbecue, buffalo or teriyaki sauce to add flavor. Place the chicken wings back in the oven and cook for an additional 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 4
Remove the chicken wings from the oven when done and brush one more time with the sauce before serving.