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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.

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