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Pickle Brined Chicken Wings: An Irresistible Air Fryer Recipe

When it comes to chicken wings, the possibilities are endless. Whether you prefer them spicy, savoury, or sweet, there’s a recipe to suit every palate. However, if you’re looking to elevate your wing game to the next level, you’ll want to try pickle brined chicken wings. This delightful twist infuses the wings with a tangy flavour that brings a delightful zing to your palate. Plus, when you cook them in an air fryer, you achieve that crispy exterior without the excessive oil. Perfect for game days, parties, or a casual night in, these pickle brined chicken wings will quickly become a firm favourite.

Ingredients

For the pickle brine:

• 500ml of dill pickle juice (this can be store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons of sugar
• 1 tablespoon of black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds (optional)

For the chicken wings:

• 1kg of chicken wings, separated into drums and flats
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder (for added crispiness)

For the dipping sauce (optional):

• 100g of mayo
• 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon of pickle juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Brine the Chicken Wings:
Start by placing the chicken wings in a large zip-lock bag or a deep bowl. In a separate jug, combine the pickle juice, sugar, black peppercorns, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard seeds (if using). Pour the brine over the wings, ensuring they are well covered. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. The longer they brine, the more flavour they will absorb.

2. Prepare for Air Frying:
After the wings have finished brining, remove them from the refrigerator and drain the brine. Pat the wings dry with kitchen paper to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving a golden, crispy texture. Once dry, season them with a pinch of salt, pepper, and baking powder, ensuring they are evenly coated.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that your wings start cooking as soon as you place them inside, maximising their crispiness.

4. Air Fry the Chicken Wings:
Place the seasoned wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook the wings for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should be golden brown and fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

5. Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
While the wings are cooking, you can whip up a quick dipping sauce if desired. In a small bowl, mix together the mayo, Dijon mustard, pickle juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the chicken wings from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them hot with the dipping sauce on the side for a tangy complement to your wings.

Final Thoughts

These pickle brined chicken wings are not only incredibly easy to prepare, but they also pack a punch of flavour that will wow your guests and leave you craving more. The air fryer makes the cooking process a breeze and ensures that your wings are crispy without the fuss of deep frying. So, whether you’re hosting a get-together or simply indulging on a cosy night, give this recipe a go. Your taste buds will thank you!

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