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Homemade Spicy Middle Eastern Chicken Wings photo

Spicy Middle Eastern Chicken Wings

Flavorful baked chicken wings marinated in Middle Eastern spices and served with creamy tahini sauce.
Prep Time 6 hours
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 25 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds large chicken wings about 25 large
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust: 1/2 tsp for mild, 3/4 tsp for medium, 1 tsp for spicy, 1 1/4 tsp for fiery
  • 3/4 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon allspice
  • 1 teaspoon salt or more to taste (use 3/4 tsp if salt-sensitive)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups tahini sauce see notes for recipe

Equipment

  • Kitchen scissors
  • large bowl or plastic zipper bag
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Measuring cup
  • Baking Sheet
  • Tongs
  • foil (optional)

Method
 

  1. Trim the wings: remove and discard the wing tips, then separate the drumette from the flat by cutting through the joint with kitchen scissors; trim excess skin or fat.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, turmeric, allspice, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Place the prepared wings in a large bowl or a plastic zipper bag and pour the spice-oil mixture over them; toss or massage until every piece is evenly coated.
  4. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate the wings for at least 6 hours and up to 24 hours to marinate.
  5. About 20 minutes before cooking, remove the wings from the refrigerator to take the chill off and stir or massage them to redistribute any settled spices.
  6. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare one or two baking sheets by spraying with nonstick cooking spray and lining with foil if desired.
  7. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the baking sheet, spaced evenly so they roast rather than steam.
  8. Roast the wings in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, turning once with tongs halfway through, until cooked through and browned.
  9. Season with additional salt to taste and serve hot with the tahini sauce.

Notes

  • Tahini sauce recipe referenced separately.
  • Marinate at least 6 hours for best flavor.
  • Adjust cayenne to control heat level.
  • Bring wings toward room temperature 20 minutes before roasting.
  • Use foil-lined baking sheets for easier cleanup.
  • Reserve wing tips for stock if desired.