


Saucy Adobo Chicken Wings with Herby Buttermilk Dressing
by
Melissa Cookston
Inspired by global travels and Southern barbecue traditions, these saucy adobo wings are packed with smoky spice, finished in a buttery hot sauce, and paired with a bright, herby buttermilk dressing for the perfect balance.
Prep Time:
20 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour 45 minutes
Serves:
4 Servings
Level:
Intermediate
Ingredients
Adobo Seasoning
1 tbsp kosher salt
1 tbsp smoked paprika (preferably high-quality/Hungarian-style)
2 tsp black pepper
2 tsp ancho chili powder
1 tsp granulated garlic
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp Mexican oregano
1 tsp ground cumin
Chicken Wings
1 lb whole chicken wings
¼ cup neutral oil
Sauce
1½ cups mild hot sauce
1 cup melted butter
Juice of 1 lime
½ tbsp granulated garlic
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chipotle powder
1 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp chopped cilantro
1 tsp cayenne (optional)
Herby Buttermilk Dressing
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp minced fresh tarragon
2 tbsp minced red onion
1 tbsp parsley
1 tbsp fresh dill (or ½ tbsp dried)
1 tsp garlic (or roasted garlic)
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
1 tsp hot sauce
Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
Step 1: Pat wings dry and toss with oil to lightly coat.
Step 2: Mix all adobo seasoning ingredients together.
Step 3: Season wings thoroughly, making sure they are evenly coated.
Step 4: Place wings on a baking sheet (or smoker if available).
Step 5: Cook at 275°F for about 1 hour 45 minutes, until internal temperature reaches ~185°F and meat pulls cleanly from the bone.
Step 6: While wings cook, whisk together all sauce ingredients until combined.
Step 7: In a separate bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth; chill until ready to serve.
Step 8: Remove wings from oven/smoker and transfer to a large bowl.
Step 9: Toss wings in sauce until fully coated and glossy.
Serving & Finishing Touches

Serve immediately with herby buttermilk dressing on the side.
