Southern Fried Chicken Wings
SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN WINGS is a easy Southern United States recipe that serves 4. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Just Lexx on YouTube.
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 40 min
Cost: $11.89 total, $2.97 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 lb Chicken Wings (bone‑in, skin‑on, trimmed)
- 2 tbsp Creole Seasoning (store‑bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 2 tbsp Yellow Mustard (classic yellow, not Dijon)
- 1 tbsp Hot Sauce (mild, e.g., Frank's RedHot)
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (sifted)
- 0.5 cup Cornstarch (fine texture)
- 1 tsp Salt (kosher or table salt)
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 4 cup Vegetable Oil (high smoke point, for deep frying)
- 1 tsp Extra Creole Seasoning (for sprinkling after frying (optional))
Instructions
Dry the Wings
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels; any moisture will prevent the coating from sticking.
Time: PT5M
Season the Wings
In the large mixing bowl combine Creole seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the wings until evenly coated.
Time: PT5M
Add the Binder
Drizzle yellow mustard and hot sauce over the seasoned wings and toss to create a thin, sticky layer.
Time: PT2M
Prepare the Coating
In the small mixing bowl whisk together flour, cornstarch, Creole seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Time: PT3M
Dredge the Wings
Roll each wing in the flour‑cornstarch mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres fully.
Time: PT3M
Heat the Oil
Fill the pot with vegetable oil to a depth of about 2‑3 inches and heat to 350°F (175°C).
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 350°F
Fry the Wings
Working in batches, lower the wings into the hot oil. Fry 8‑10 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and cooked through.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: 350°F
Drain and Rest
Remove the wings with tongs and place on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil.
Time: PT2M
Finish and Serve
If desired, sprinkle a little extra Creole seasoning over the hot wings and serve immediately.
Time: PT0M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 350
- Protein
- 20g
- Carbohydrates
- 15g
- Fat
- 22g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Contains gluten, Contains mustard
Allergens: Wheat, Corn, Mustard
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Chicken Wings: Chicken Drumettes
- Instead of Creole Seasoning: Cajun seasoning
- Instead of Onion Powder: Finely minced fresh onion
- Instead of Garlic Powder: Fresh minced garlic
- Instead of Yellow Mustard: Mustard powder mixed with water
- Instead of Hot Sauce: Chili paste
- Instead of All-Purpose Flour: Gluten‑free flour blend
- Instead of Cornstarch: Potato starch
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
- Instead of Vegetable Oil: Canola oil, Peanut oil
Equipment Needed
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Small Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Deep Frying Pot or Dutch Oven
- Thermometer
- Tongs
- Wire Rack
- Paper Towels
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Dry the chicken wings thoroughly before coating
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F throughout frying
- Do not overcrowd the pot when frying
- Ensure the flour‑cornstarch coating adheres fully before frying
Chef Tips from the Video
- Pat the wings completely dry; even a few drops of water will steam the coating.
- Use a double coating (dip in mustard, then flour mixture, then a quick second dip) for extra crunch.
- A wire rack over paper towels keeps the bottom from sitting in oil after frying.
Troubleshooting
Wings are soggy instead of crispy.
Make sure the oil is at 350°F before adding wings and avoid crowding the pot; fry in small batches.
Coating falls off during frying.
Dry the wings thoroughly, apply the mustard binder evenly, and press the flour mixture onto the wings before frying.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze in a zip‑top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a preheated oven.
Room temperature: Do not leave out more than 2 hours; risk of bacterial growth.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Season the wings and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking for deeper flavor.
- Coated wings can be kept refrigerated, uncovered, for up to 4 hours; fry when ready.
- Strain and store used oil in a sealed container for reuse in future fry batches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of fried chicken wings in Southern United States cuisine?
Fried chicken wings have become a staple of Southern comfort food, tracing back to early 20th‑century barbecues where leftover wings were battered and fried for a quick snack. Over time they evolved into a beloved appetizer served at gatherings, sports events, and family meals across the South.
What are the traditional regional variations of fried chicken wings in the Southern United States?
In the Deep South, wings are often seasoned with Creole or Cajun blends and served with a side of hot sauce. In the Carolinas, they may be coated in a light cornmeal crust, while in Texas a spicier rub with chili powder is common. Each region adds its own spice profile while keeping the core technique of deep‑frying.
How are fried chicken wings traditionally served in the South?
Southern fried wings are typically served hot, sprinkled with extra seasoning, and accompanied by pickles, coleslaw, or a simple dipping sauce such as honey mustard or ranch. They are often presented on a platter for sharing at casual gatherings.
What occasions or celebrations are fried chicken wings traditionally associated with in Southern culture?
Fried chicken wings are a go‑to snack for football games, backyard barbecues, family reunions, and holiday picnics. Their easy finger‑food nature makes them perfect for informal celebrations and sports‑watching parties.
How does fried chicken wings fit into the broader Southern cuisine tradition?
The dish embodies Southern cooking’s love for deep‑fried comfort foods, bold seasoning, and communal sharing. It pairs naturally with other Southern staples like biscuits, collard greens, and sweet tea, completing a hearty, flavorful meal.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Southern fried chicken wings versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients include bone‑in chicken wings, a Creole or Cajun spice blend, yellow mustard as a binder, all‑purpose flour, and cornstarch for extra crunch. Acceptable substitutes are Dijon mustard, gluten‑free flour blends, or canola oil instead of vegetable oil, while still preserving the flavor profile.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making crunchy Southern fried chicken wings at home?
Common errors include not drying the wings, using oil that’s too cool, overcrowding the pot, and skipping the mustard binder. Each mistake leads to a soggy coating or uneven cooking, so follow the drying, temperature, and batch‑frying steps carefully.
Why does this recipe use yellow mustard as a binder instead of eggs?
Yellow mustard adds a tangy flavor and creates a thin, adhesive film that helps the flour‑cornstarch mixture stick without adding extra richness. It also keeps the coating light and crispy, whereas eggs can make the crust heavier.
Can I make these fried chicken wings ahead of time and how should I store them?
Yes. Season and coat the wings, then refrigerate them uncovered for up to 4 hours before frying. After cooking, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating in a 350°F oven to restore crispness.
What does the YouTube channel Just Lexx specialize in?
The YouTube channel Just Lexx focuses on approachable, home‑cooked comfort food with a Southern flair, offering step‑by‑step tutorials that emphasize flavor, simplicity, and practical kitchen tips for everyday cooks.
How does the YouTube channel Just Lexx's approach to Southern comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Just Lexx combines down‑to‑earth storytelling with clear, no‑fluff instructions, often using pantry staples and inexpensive ingredients. Unlike many channels that chase gourmet trends, Just Lexx stays true to classic Southern flavors while providing shortcuts that don’t sacrifice authenticity.
Last updated: August 21, 2026
