Dill Pickle Ranch Chicken Wings are a deliciously tangy and savory twist on traditional chicken wings. Combining the flavors of dill pickles and ranch seasoning, these wings offer a unique taste that is both zesty and comforting. The pickle brine infuses the wings with a tangy, briny flavor, while the ranch seasoning adds a creamy, herby touch. Perfect for game day, parties, or a fun weeknight dinner, these wings are sure to become a new favorite.
Recipe
Ingredients:
- For the Marinade:
- 1 cup dill pickle juice (from a jar of pickles)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (or ranch seasoning mix if you prefer to mix with buttermilk)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- For the Ranch Dip (optional but recommended):
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or 1 teaspoon dried dill
Instructions:
- Marinate the Wings:
- In a large bowl or resealable plastic bag, combine the dill pickle juice, ranch dressing, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir or shake to mix well.
- Add the chicken wings to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight for the best flavor.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to allow for even cooking and crispiness.
- Season the Wings:
- Remove the wings from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them become crispier when baked.
- In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Make sure the wings are evenly coated.
- Bake the Wings:
- Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the wings are crispy and golden brown, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
- Make the Ranch Dip (Optional):
- While the wings are baking, mix the ranch dressing, dill pickle juice, and fresh or dried dill in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste. Chill until ready to serve.
- Serve:
- Once the wings are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the wings hot with the optional ranch dip on the side and extra pickle slices if desired.
These Dill Pickle Ranch Chicken Wings offer a delightful combination of tangy pickle flavor and creamy ranch seasoning, making them a standout choice for any occasion. Enjoy their unique taste and crispy texture!
