Are you a fan of chicken wings, but tired of the same old boring recipes? Look no further than the Big Easy, a versatile and easy-to-use oil-less fryer that can help you cook delicious chicken wings with minimal effort. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook chicken wings in the Big Easy, including tips and tricks for achieving perfect results every time.
What is the Big Easy?
Before we dive into the world of chicken wings, let’s take a quick look at the Big Easy itself. The Big Easy is a type of oil-less fryer that uses infrared heat to cook food, rather than oil. This makes it a healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying methods, and also reduces the risk of accidents and messes. The Big Easy is perfect for cooking a variety of foods, including chicken wings, fries, and even vegetables.
Benefits of Using the Big Easy
So why should you use the Big Easy to cook your chicken wings? Here are just a few benefits of this amazing machine:
- Healthier cooking option: The Big Easy uses infrared heat to cook food, which means you can enjoy your favorite fried foods without the added calories and fat of oil.
- Easier cleanup: The Big Easy is designed with easy cleanup in mind. The cooking basket and drip tray are both dishwasher safe, making it easy to keep your machine clean and tidy.
- Less mess: Because the Big Easy uses infrared heat, you don’t have to worry about splatters and spills like you would with traditional deep-frying methods.
- Perfect results every time: The Big Easy is designed to produce perfect results every time, whether you’re cooking chicken wings, fries, or vegetables.
How to Cook Chicken Wings in the Big Easy
Now that we’ve covered the basics of the Big Easy, let’s move on to the fun part – cooking chicken wings! Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking delicious chicken wings in the Big Easy:
Preparation is Key
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following ingredients and supplies:
- 2-3 pounds chicken wings
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- The Big Easy oil-less fryer
- Cooking basket and drip tray
Preheating the Big Easy
To start, preheat the Big Easy to 375°F (190°C). This should take about 10-15 minutes, depending on the temperature of your machine.
Seasoning the Chicken Wings
While the Big Easy is preheating, take the time to season your chicken wings. In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
Cooking the Chicken Wings
Once the Big Easy is preheated, place the chicken wings in the cooking basket. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your machine. Close the lid and cook the chicken wings for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Finishing Touches
Once the chicken wings are cooked, remove them from the Big Easy and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess moisture. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chicken Wings
Here are a few tips and tricks to help you achieve perfect chicken wings every time:
- Pat dry the chicken wings before cooking: This will help the seasonings stick to the chicken and prevent steam from building up in the Big Easy.
- Don’t overcrowd the cooking basket: Cook the chicken wings in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: This will ensure the chicken wings are cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Experiment with different seasonings: Try different seasoning combinations to find your favorite flavor.
Delicious Chicken Wing Recipes to Try
Here are a few delicious chicken wing recipes to try in the Big Easy:
- Buffalo Chicken Wings: Toss cooked chicken wings in buffalo sauce and serve with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks.
- Honey BBQ Chicken Wings: Toss cooked chicken wings in a mixture of honey, BBQ sauce, and brown sugar. Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing.
- Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings: Toss cooked chicken wings in a mixture of lemon zest, black pepper, and garlic powder. Serve with a side of ranch dressing.
Conclusion
Cooking chicken wings in the Big Easy is a delicious and easy way to enjoy your favorite snack. With its infrared heat and easy cleanup design, the Big Easy is the perfect machine for cooking a variety of foods, including chicken wings. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to achieving perfect chicken wings every time. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
| Recipe | Ingredients | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Buffalo Chicken Wings | Chicken wings, buffalo sauce, blue cheese dressing, celery sticks | 20-25 minutes |
| Honey BBQ Chicken Wings | Chicken wings, honey, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, celery sticks, blue cheese dressing | 20-25 minutes |
| Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings | Chicken wings, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, ranch dressing | 20-25 minutes |
Note: The cooking times listed in the table are approximate and may vary depending on the size and temperature of your Big Easy machine.
What is the Big Easy and how does it help in cooking chicken wings?
The Big Easy is a type of oil-less fryer that uses infrared heat to cook food, resulting in a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. It is an ideal appliance for cooking chicken wings because it allows for even cooking and browning without the need for excess oil. The Big Easy is also relatively easy to use and clean, making it a convenient option for home cooks.
When cooking chicken wings in the Big Easy, the infrared heat helps to lock in the juices and flavors of the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. The Big Easy also allows for a high level of customization, as users can adjust the temperature and cooking time to suit their preferences. This makes it easy to achieve the perfect level of crispiness and doneness for your chicken wings.
What are the benefits of cooking chicken wings in the Big Easy compared to deep-frying?
Cooking chicken wings in the Big Easy has several benefits compared to deep-frying. One of the main advantages is that it is a much healthier option, as it uses little to no oil. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to reduce their fat intake or cook for people with dietary restrictions. Additionally, the Big Easy is generally easier to clean and maintain than a deep fryer, as it does not require the use of messy oil.
Another benefit of cooking chicken wings in the Big Easy is that it allows for more even cooking and browning. Deep-frying can sometimes result in unevenly cooked wings, but the Big Easy’s infrared heat ensures that the wings are cooked consistently throughout. This results in a more visually appealing final product and a better overall texture.
How do I prepare chicken wings for cooking in the Big Easy?
To prepare chicken wings for cooking in the Big Easy, start by rinsing them under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and ensures that the wings cook evenly. Next, season the wings with your desired spices and sauces. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, or try using a pre-made sauce like buffalo or BBQ.
Once the wings are seasoned, place them in a single layer in the Big Easy basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this can prevent the wings from cooking evenly. If necessary, cook the wings in batches to ensure that they have enough room to cook properly.
What is the ideal temperature and cooking time for chicken wings in the Big Easy?
The ideal temperature and cooking time for chicken wings in the Big Easy will depend on your personal preference for doneness and crispiness. As a general rule, cook the wings at 375-400°F (190-200°C) for 20-25 minutes. This will result in a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. However, if you prefer your wings more or less cooked, you can adjust the temperature and cooking time accordingly.
It’s also important to note that the size and thickness of the wings can affect the cooking time. Larger wings may require a longer cooking time, while smaller wings may be done more quickly. Keep an eye on the wings as they cook and adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve the desired level of doneness.
Can I cook frozen chicken wings in the Big Easy?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken wings in the Big Easy. However, it’s generally recommended to thaw the wings first for the best results. If you do choose to cook frozen wings, make sure to increase the cooking time by about 50%. This will ensure that the wings are cooked through and heated to a safe internal temperature.
It’s also important to note that cooking frozen wings can result in a slightly different texture and flavor compared to cooking fresh wings. However, the Big Easy’s infrared heat can help to minimize this difference and result in a delicious and crispy final product.
How do I achieve crispy skin on my chicken wings when cooking in the Big Easy?
To achieve crispy skin on your chicken wings when cooking in the Big Easy, make sure to pat the wings dry with paper towels before cooking. This helps to remove excess moisture and promotes crispiness. You can also try dusting the wings with a small amount of cornstarch or flour before cooking, as this can help to create a crisper exterior.
Another tip for achieving crispy skin is to increase the temperature of the Big Easy to 400-425°F (200-220°C) for the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. This will help to crisp up the skin and create a crunchy texture. Keep an eye on the wings as they cook and adjust the temperature and cooking time as needed to achieve the desired level of crispiness.
Can I cook other foods in the Big Easy besides chicken wings?
Yes, you can cook a variety of foods in the Big Easy besides chicken wings. The Big Easy is a versatile appliance that can be used to cook a range of meats, vegetables, and even desserts. Some popular options include steak, shrimp, vegetables, and even baked potatoes. The Big Easy’s infrared heat and adjustable temperature make it an ideal appliance for cooking a wide range of foods.
When cooking other foods in the Big Easy, make sure to adjust the temperature and cooking time as needed to achieve the desired level of doneness. You can also try using different seasonings and sauces to add flavor to your dishes. The Big Easy’s user manual should provide guidance on cooking times and temperatures for different types of food, or you can experiment with different recipes to find your favorites.