Restaurant-Style Chicken Wings Recipe- Garam Masala & Kashmiri Chili

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Restaurant-Style Chicken Wings Recipe – Garam Masala & Kashmiri Chili

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you love a good plate of chicken wings. But let’s be real, sometimes ordering takeout just doesn’t cut it. I was craving that incredible, flavorful kick you get from restaurant-style wings, so I set out to recreate them at home. And honestly? I think I’ve nailed it. These Garam Masala & Kashmiri Chili Chicken Wings are seriously addictive – crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. You won’t believe how easy they are to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These aren’t your average wings. The combination of warm garam masala, vibrant Kashmiri chili powder, and a touch of kasoori methi creates a truly unique and unforgettable flavor profile. Plus, you can choose to bake them in the oven or get them extra crispy in the air fryer – whatever works best for you! They’re perfect for game night, parties, or just a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these amazing wings:

• 2 pounds raw chicken wings
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 to 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 to 2 tablespoons Kashmiri red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 1 tablespoon garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few tips to make sure everything comes together perfectly:

Chicken Wings: Choosing the Right Cut
I prefer using whole chicken wings (drumettes and flats) for the most flavor. You can ask your butcher to cut them for you, or buy them pre-cut.

Yogurt: Full-Fat vs. Low-Fat for Marinades
Full-fat yogurt works best for marinades because it helps tenderize the chicken and creates a richer flavor. However, you can use low-fat yogurt if you prefer, just know the texture might be slightly different. About 240ml is a good measure.

Kashmiri Red Chili Powder: Color and Flavor Profile
This is a must for that beautiful red color and mild heat. It’s different from regular chili powder – it’s more about flavor than intense spice. If you can’t find it, see the FAQ section for substitutions.

Kasoori Methi: The Secret to Authentic Indian Flavor
Don’t skip this! Kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves) adds a unique, slightly bitter, and wonderfully aromatic flavor that’s essential to Indian cuisine. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores.

Garam Masala: Regional Variations & Blends
Garam masala blends vary from region to region in India. Feel free to use your favorite brand or make your own! It’s a warm, fragrant spice blend that really ties everything together.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, trim any excess skin and fat from the chicken wings using kitchen shears. This helps them get extra crispy.
2. In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, Kashmiri red chili powder, kasoori methi, ginger paste, garlic paste, turmeric, and salt. Give it a good mix until everything is well combined.
3. Now, add the chicken wings to the marinade. Make sure each wing is thoroughly coated – get in there with your hands! Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but ideally overnight (or up to 24 hours) for the best flavor.
4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for convection baking, or regular baking. If you’re using an air fryer, preheat it to 400°F (200°C) as well.
5. For the Oven: Place the marinated wings on a greased wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate and helps them get crispy. Bake for 20-25 minutes (convection) or 40 minutes (regular oven). For that beautiful charred look, broil on high for the last 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning!
6. For the Air Fryer: Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 370°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Then, crank up the heat to 400°F (200°C) and cook for another 5 minutes until they’re perfectly crispy.
7. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This is super important for food safety!
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Expert Tips

A few little things that make a big difference:

Marinating Time: Maximizing Flavor
The longer you marinate the wings, the more flavorful they’ll be. I recommend at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better.

Achieving Crispy Skin: Oven vs. Air Fryer
The air fryer definitely gives you the crispiest results, but the oven works great too! Using a wire rack in the oven is key for air circulation.

Temperature Control: Ensuring Perfectly Cooked Wings
A meat thermometer is your best friend! It ensures the wings are cooked through without being dry.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Chicken Wings Adaptation
Use cauliflower florets or soy curls instead of chicken wings. Marinate them in the same sauce and bake or air fry until tender and crispy.

Gluten-Free Option
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check that your garam masala doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients.

Spice Level Adjustment: Mild to Fiery
Adjust the amount of Kashmiri red chili powder to control the heat. For a milder flavor, use 1 tablespoon. For a fiery kick, add up to 2 tablespoons or a pinch of cayenne pepper. My friend, Priya, loves to add a little ghost pepper powder for a real challenge!

Festival Adaptation: Diwali or Eid Party Wings
These wings are a huge hit at parties! I often make a big batch for Diwali or Eid celebrations. They’re always the first thing to disappear.

Serving Suggestions

These wings are amazing on their own, but here are a few ideas for serving:

• Coriander-cumin yogurt
• Blue cheese dressing
• A side of crispy fries or roasted vegetables
• Naan bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce

Storage Instructions

Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

Can I marinate the chicken wings overnight?
Yes, absolutely! Marinating overnight will result in more flavorful and tender wings.

What is the best way to get the wings extra crispy?
Using an air fryer is the best way to get super crispy wings. If using the oven, make sure to use a wire rack.

Can I use different chili powder if I don’t have Kashmiri red chili powder?
You can substitute with paprika for color, but it won’t have the same flavor. A blend of paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper can work in a pinch.

What is kasoori methi and where can I find it?
Kasoori methi is dried fenugreek leaves. You can find it at most Indian grocery stores or online.

Can these wings be grilled instead of baked or air fried?
Yes! Grill the wings over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes, flipping occasionally, until cooked through and slightly charred.

What is a good dipping sauce to serve with these wings?
Coriander-cumin yogurt is a classic pairing. Blue cheese dressing, ranch, or even a simple sweet chili sauce also work well.

Enjoy! I hope you love these wings as much as my family does. Let me know in the comments how they turn out for you!