10 Best Places to Get the Best Chicken Wings in America

chicken wings in a bucket

Indulge in the delectable symphony of flavors that makes American wings the irresistible culinary masterpiece they are. From the crispy, golden-brown exteriors to the tender, juicy interiors, each bite is a testament to the mastery of American cuisine. Whether savored as a standalone snack or paired with your favorite dipping sauce, wings have captivated the taste buds of countless individuals, solidifying their status as an American culinary icon.

Buffalo wings, with their legendary fiery kick, reign supreme as the quintessential American wing experience. The harmonious blend of cayenne pepper, vinegar, and butter creates an unforgettable burst of flavor that tantalizes the senses. However, the culinary landscape of wings extends far beyond the realm of Buffalo. Garlic Parmesan wings, with their delectable blend of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and oregano, offer a savory and aromatic alternative. Honey mustard wings, with their sweet and tangy glaze, provide a delightful contrast to the spicy heat of Buffalo wings.

The art of wing preparation is not confined to the confines of a kitchen. Backyard barbecues and tailgating parties have become synonymous with the sizzling aroma of wings grilling over an open flame. Whether seasoned with a classic dry rub or marinated in a flavorful sauce, grilled wings embody the essence of casual American gatherings. The smoky char adds an irresistible depth of flavor, elevating the wings to a culinary masterpiece that is both satisfying and unforgettable.

The Undisputed Champion: Buffalo-Style Wings

Buffalo-style wings reign supreme in the American wing scene, captivating taste buds with their delectable blend of flavors and textures. Originating in the heart of Buffalo, New York, these wings boast a crispy exterior that shatters upon every bite, revealing a juicy and tender interior.

The key to Buffalo-style wings lies in the perfect balance of heat and tang. The signature sauce, concocted from a secret blend of cayenne pepper, vinegar, and butter, coats each wing with a tantalizing fiery embrace. The heat level can vary from mild to scorching, catering to every palate’s preference.

To complete the Buffalo experience, wings are typically accompanied by a cool and creamy dipping sauce, such as blue cheese or ranch. These sauces provide a refreshing contrast to the heat of the wings, creating a harmonious balance that keeps taste buds dancing with delight.

Regional Variations: A Tapestry of Flavors

Buffalo-style wings may have paved the way, but regional variations have emerged across the United States, showcasing a vibrant tapestry of flavors and culinary traditions.

Region	Wing Style	Signature Sauce
Atlanta	Lemon Pepper Wings	Lemon-infused butter with a hint of black pepper
Detroit	Motor City Wings	Savory tomato-based sauce with garlic and roasted red peppers
Kansas City	Smoked Wings	Smoked over hickory wood chips, finished with a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze

Crafting the Perfect Wing: Ingredients and Techniques

Ingredients

The key to creating mouthwatering wings lies in selecting the right ingredients. Start with fresh, plump chicken wings. Avoid frozen or pre-breaded options, as these will compromise the flavor and texture. For the breading, choose a combination of flour, cornstarch, and seasonings. Flour provides the base for the breading, while cornstarch helps create a crispy crust. Common seasonings include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.

Techniques

Proper Marinating

Marinating the wings before cooking infuses them with flavor and helps tenderize the meat. Choose a marinade that complements your desired flavor profile. A classic marinade includes a base of buttermilk, hot sauce, and seasonings. Allow the wings to marinate for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in juicy and flavorful wings.

Here’s a table summarizing the steps for effective marinating:

Step	Description
1	Create a marinade by combining liquids and seasonings in a large bowl.
2	Add the chicken wings to the marinade and stir to coat.
3	Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or up to overnight.
4	Remove the wings from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid before cooking.

Frying the Wings

Frying the wings properly is crucial for achieving the desired crispness and flavor. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully add the chicken wings to the hot oil and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy wings.

Regional Wing Styles: A Taste of America’s Diversity

Atlantic Style: A Culinary Symphony of Simplicity and Spice

Atlantic-style wings embrace a minimalist approach, letting the natural flavors of the chicken shine through. The wings are typically unbreaded and deep-fried until golden brown, resulting in a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. The sauces are where the magic happens, ranging from classic Buffalo to tangy honey mustard to spicy garlic parmesan.

Midwest Style: Comfort Food with a Crispy Twist

Midwest-style wings indulge in the comfort of breaded wings. These wings are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and deep-fried until the breading forms a golden-brown crust. The sauces are often creamy and indulgent, such as ranch, blue cheese, or barbecue.

Southern Style: A Symphony of Sweet and Spicy

Southern-style wings represent a harmonious balance of sweet and spicy flavors. These wings are also breaded but seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, giving them a unique and flavorful crust. The sauces are typically sweet-based, such as honey barbecue or peach habanero, with a kick of heat to balance the sweetness.

A Symphony of Flavors: Sauces and Marinades

The sauces and marinades used to coat chicken wings are the secret to their exceptional taste and appeal. These flavorful concoctions not only enhance the wings’ texture but also create a delightful symphony of flavors on your palate.

Sauces add a layer of richness and complexity to the wings, whether they are slathered on during cooking or served as a dipping accompaniment. From classic buffalo sauce to creamy ranch dressing, the options are endless. Marinades, on the other hand, penetrate deep into the wings, infusing them with a symphony of herbs, spices, and flavors.

The Art of Marinating

Marinating chicken wings is a crucial step that allows the flavors to permeate the meat. A marinade typically consists of a liquid base (such as buttermilk, olive oil, or soy sauce), herbs, spices, and aromatics. The wings are submerged in the marinade for several hours or even overnight, allowing the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat.

Buffalo Sauce: A Fiery Classic

Buffalo sauce, with its signature combination of cayenne pepper, vinegar, and butter, is a culinary icon. The wings are tossed in the sauce after being fried, creating a spicy and tangy coating that leaves your taste buds dancing.

Sweet Chili Sauce: A Harmony of Sweet and Spicy

Sweet chili sauce strikes a perfect balance between sweet and spicy flavors. This versatile sauce is made with a blend of red chili peppers, garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness. It adds a kick of heat to the wings without overpowering their natural flavor.

BBQ Sauce: A Smoky Symphony

BBQ sauce, with its smoky, tangy, and sweet notes, is a beloved choice among wing enthusiasts. This versatile sauce is made with a blend of tomatoes, vinegar, molasses, and various spices. The wings are grilled or smoked in the sauce, resulting in a fall-off-the-bone tenderness and a tantalizing flavor that lingers on your palate.

Sauce	Description
Buffalo	Spicy and tangy, made with cayenne pepper, vinegar, and butter.
Sweet Chili	Balance of sweet and spicy, made with red chili peppers, garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness.
BBQ	Smoky, tangy, and sweet, made with tomatoes, vinegar, molasses, and various spices.

Baking

Baking wings in the oven can produce a nice, crispy skin and juicy interior. It’s also a relatively hands-off method that doesn’t require constant attention.

Frying

Frying wings in hot oil can produce a crispy and flavorful exterior. It’s important to use a good quality oil and to fry the wings in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Grilling

Grilling wings is a great way to achieve a smoky flavor. It’s important to use a well-seasoned grill and to cook the wings over indirect heat to avoid burning.

Saucing

Once your wings are cooked, you can toss them in your favorite sauce. There are endless possibilities when it comes to sauces, so you can experiment to find a flavor that you like.

Serving

Serve your wings with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy! Here are a few popular dipping sauce options:

Name	Description
Ranch	A creamy, tangy sauce made with buttermilk, mayonnaise, and herbs.
Blue Cheese	A creamy, flavorful sauce made with blue cheese, mayonnaise, and milk.
BBQ	A sweet, smoky sauce made with tomatoes, vinegar, and spices.

Dipping Delights: The Essential Wing Accompaniments

Every great wing deserves an equally great dipping companion. Here are some of our favorites:

1. Ranch Dressing

This classic condiment is a go-to for a reason—it’s creamy, tangy, and pairs perfectly with anything from buffalo wings to honey BBQ.

2. Blue Cheese Dressing

A bit more assertive than ranch, blue cheese dressing adds a rich, tangy flavor that complements spicy wings especially well.

3. Honey Mustard

This sweet but still tangy sauce is a great option for those who want a bit of sweetness without sacrificing flavor.

4. Horseradish Sauce

If you’re looking for a bit of heat, horseradish sauce is the perfect choice. It adds a spicy kick that’s sure to wake up your taste buds.

5. Cayenne Pepper Sauce

For those who like it really hot, cayenne pepper sauce is the way to go. It delivers a blistering heat that will make your eyes water.

6. Conclusion: The Perfect Dipping Sauce for Your Wings

Ultimately, the best dipping sauce for your wings is the one that you enjoy the most.

To help you find your perfect match, here’s a table summarizing the key characteristics of each sauce:

Sauce	Flavor	Heat Level
Ranch	Creamy, tangy	Mild
Blue Cheese	Tangy, rich	Mild to moderate
Honey Mustard	Sweet, tangy	Mild
Horseradish	Spicy, tangy	Moderate to hot
Cayenne Pepper	Very hot, spicy	Extreme

The Science of Crispy Wings: Unlocking the Secrets

01. The Maillard Reaction (browning)

When wings are cooked at high temperatures, the amino acids and sugars in the chicken interact to create a flavorful crust. This reaction is known as the Maillard reaction and is responsible for the golden brown color and savory flavor of crispy wings.

02. Moisture Management

Crispy wings start with a dry exterior. Moisture on the surface can prevent the Maillard reaction from occurring, resulting in soggy wings. Seasoning wings with salt before cooking helps draw out moisture and create a crispier crust.

03. Heat Transfer

Wings cook best when surrounded by hot air. Convection ovens and air fryers circulate hot air evenly, creating a crispy exterior without overcooking the interior.

04. Frying Temperature

The ideal frying temperature for wings is between 350-375°F (175-190°C). Too low a temperature will result in greasy wings, while too high a temperature will burn the exterior before the interior is cooked through.

05. Double Frying

For the ultimate crispy wings, fry them twice. The first fry sets the crust, while the second fry crisps it up even further. Allow the wings to cool completely between fries to prevent sogginess.

06. Baking Powder

Adding baking powder to the batter or seasoning helps create extra crispy wings. The alkaline nature of baking powder reacts with the Maillard reaction to enhance browning.

07. Types of Wing Sauce

The sauce you choose can make or break your crispy wings. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular types:

Sauce	Characteristics
Buffalo	Tangy and spicy, made with vinegar, hot pepper sauce, and butter
Barbecue	Sweet, smoky, and tangy, made with tomato sauce, molasses, and brown sugar
Honey Garlic	Sweet and savory, made with honey, soy sauce, and garlic

Health-Conscious Wings: Tailoring to Dietary Needs

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for healthier wing options. To meet this demand, restaurants have begun offering lighter, more nutritious alternatives to traditional fried wings.

8. Gluten-Free Wings

Gluten intolerance is a common food allergy that affects millions of Americans. For those with gluten intolerance, eating gluten can cause a range of symptoms, including digestive problems, fatigue, and skin rashes. Gluten is found in wheat, rye, and barley, so it is important to avoid these ingredients when following a gluten-free diet.

Luckily, there are now many gluten-free wing options available. These wings are made with gluten-free ingredients, such as rice flour or cornmeal, and are a safe option for people with gluten intolerance.

Here is a table of some popular gluten-free wing brands:

Brand	Type
Buffalo Wild Wings	Boneless wings
Wingstop	Traditional wings
Hooters	Boneless wings
Dave & Buster’s	Traditional wings

Innovation in the Wing World: Creative Flavors and Concepts

The world of chicken wings has undergone a delectable revolution, showcasing an array of inventive flavors and concepts that tantalize taste buds.

Beyond the Buffalo: Exploring Unique Flavors

Traditional buffalo wings have long reigned supreme, but intrepid chefs and culinary enthusiasts have ventured far beyond the confines of the classic sauce. From tangy honey Sriracha to umami-rich miso glaze, wings now don an eclectic spectrum of flavors that cater to every palate.

Culinary Creations: Wings with a Twist

Wings have transcended their humble origins to become veritable culinary canvases. Chefs are experimenting with exotic ingredients, unconventional rubs, and elaborate dipping sauces to create wings that defy expectations. Smoked wings with bourbon barbecue sauce, panko-crusted wings with sweet chili aioli, and wings drizzled with truffle honey are just a few examples of the boundless creativity that defines this culinary frontier.

A Flight of Sauces: Dipping Delights

Sauces play an integral role in elevating the wing experience. From piquant and spicy to creamy and tangy, the options are endless. Garlic Parmesan, lemon-pepper, and blue cheese ranch are timeless favorites, while innovations like Sriracha horseradish and avocado crema offer a fresh twist to classic flavors.

Wing Extravaganzas: Over-the-Top Indulgences

For those who seek an unforgettable wing experience, wing extravaganzas have become a culinary phenomenon. These over-the-top creations feature massive wings coated in lavish sauces, topped with decadent ingredients like bacon, cheese, and jalapeños. These edible masterpieces are designed to satisfy the most extreme wing cravings.

Worldly Inspiration: Global Wing Adventures

The wing revolution has also drawn inspiration from global cuisines. Thai sweet chili, Korean gochujang, and Jamaican jerk flavors have found their way into the wing arena, offering a tantalizing journey of international tastes.

The Great Wing Debate: Bone-In vs. Boneless

The age-old debate between bone-in and boneless wings continues to divide wing enthusiasts. Purists swear by the succulence and flavor of bone-in wings, while proponents of boneless wings appreciate their ease of consumption and versatility for sauces and toppings.

Wing Challenges: A Test of Epic Proportions

For the truly adventurous, wing challenges have become a right of passage. These daunting feats involve consuming a staggering number of wings in a set time frame, often with devilishly spicy sauces. Wing warriors test their limits and vie for bragging rights, creating an electrifying atmosphere.

The Wing Revolution: A Culinary Renaissance

The innovation in the wing world has transformed a once-humble snack into a culinary masterpiece. From imaginative flavors to unconventional creations and thrilling challenges, the evolution of wings has captivated taste buds and ignited a passion among both chefs and wing enthusiasts.

Wing Dipping Sauce Options

Classic Sauces	Modern Sauces
Buffalo	Sriracha Horseradish
Garlic Parmesan	Avocado Crema
Blue Cheese Ranch	Mango Habanero

1. Anchor Bar (Buffalo, NY)

The birthplace of the original Buffalo wing, Anchor Bar has been serving up its legendary wings since 1964. With a crispy exterior and a choice of over 20 sauces, Anchor Bar’s wings are a must-try for any wing enthusiast.

2. Duffs Famous Wings (Buffalo, NY)

Another Buffalo institution, Duffs Famous Wings has been around since 1969. Known for its wide variety of sauces, including the spicy medium and the garlic parmesan, Duffs’ wings are a local favorite.

3. Bar-Bill Tavern (Chicago, IL)

A Chicago institution since 1953, Bar-Bill Tavern has been serving up some of the best wings in the Windy City. Their famous sweet and spicy sauce gives their wings a unique and unforgettable flavor.

4. Wingstop (Various Locations)

A popular chain with locations across the country, Wingstop is known for its customizable wings. With over 11 flavors to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect wings for your taste buds.

5. Buffalo Wild Wings (Various Locations)

Another popular chain, Buffalo Wild Wings has a huge selection of wings and sauces. Whether you like your wings mild or extra spicy, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.

6. Hooters (Various Locations)

While Hooters is known for its “Hooter Girls,” they also serve up some pretty amazing wings. Their signature original sauce is a crowd-pleaser, and they also offer a variety of other flavors.

7. Wing Zone (Various Locations)

With locations nationwide, Wing Zone is a great option for wing lovers on the go. Their wings are always cooked fresh and come with a variety of sauces, including their award-winning Asian Zing.

8. The Wing Factory (Various Locations)

A popular chain in the Midwest and Southeast, The Wing Factory is known for its crispy wings and unique sauces. Their honey mustard barbecue sauce is a must-try.

9. BW3 (Various Locations)

Formerly known as Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck, BW3 is a popular chain with a focus on wings. They offer a wide variety of sauces, including their signature Parmesan Garlic sauce.

10. Wing It On! (Various Locations)

With over 50 locations in the United States and Canada, Wing It On! is one of the fastest-growing wing chains in the country. They’re known for their crispy wings and their unique flavors, such as the mango habanero and the lemon pepper.

American Best Wings: A Review

American Best Wings is a popular chain of wing restaurants known for its extensive menu of flavorful wings. With over 100 locations across the United States, the chain has gained a reputation for serving high-quality wings at affordable prices.

The wings are cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. The sauces are tangy and flavorful, ranging from classic Buffalo to unique creations like the Bourbon BBQ. The wings are also available in a variety of sizes, from small to extra-large, ensuring there is something for every appetite.

In addition to wings, American Best Wings also offers a variety of other menu items, including boneless wings, tenders, sandwiches, salads, and sides. The sides are equally impressive, with options like onion rings, curly fries, and coleslaw.

Overall, American Best Wings is a great choice for a casual meal with friends or family. The wings are delicious, the prices are affordable, and the service is friendly.