These cowboy butter chicken wings are bold, buttery, and built for flavor. They’re crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a zesty, garlicky cowboy butter that brings the heat. Whether you’re baking or air frying, this recipe turns plain wings into something seriously craveable.
They’re perfect for game day, backyard hangs, or anytime you want a finger-licking appetizer that stands out. The lemon, Dijon, and red pepper flakes in the cowboy butter give these wings a bright kick that cuts through the richness. Once you try these, regular wings just won’t hit the same.
Helpful Tips
- Coat with cornstarch first: This is key for getting that crispy, golden crust in the oven or air fryer.
- Don’t skip the second cook: Basting the wings in cowboy butter and then cooking again helps the flavor soak in and the texture get extra crispy.
- Use the extra butter sauce: A final toss or drizzle after cooking takes the flavor over the top.
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Cowboy Butter Chicken Wings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice + zest
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 tablespoon chives chopped
- 1 teaspoon EACH salt and pepper divided
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil spray
- 2 pounds chicken wings
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the butter, garlic lemon juice, half of the zest, Dijon mustard, paprika, red pepper flakes, chives, and half the salt and pepper. Set aside.
- In a large ziptop bag, mix the cornstarch, remaining salt and pepper. Add the chicken wings to the bag and toss until all pieces are well coated.
- Spread the wings on a parchment paper lined baking sheet and spray with cooking oil. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes. Remove from oven. Baste with the cowboy butter mixture. Turn the wings over. Baste them on the other side. Continue cooking for another 20 minutes.
- If using the air fryer, place the chicken wings in the basket, spray with cooking oil, and air fry at 400°F for 20 minutes, shaking halfway. Place half of the cowboy butter in a large bowl. Transfer the wings from the air fryer into the bowl and toss until the butter melts and completely coats the wings. Place the wings back into the air fryer and continue cooking for another 15 minutes, until the wings are crisp.
- When the wings are done, toss them or baste them with more of the cowboy butter sauce. Serve hot.
Nutrition
Laura is the founder and editor of the travel blogs Savored Sips and Savored Journeys. She is dedicated to sharing the best information about drinks found around the world.