Turkish Style Chicken Wings

A main course that has the power to bring back to life the sultan himself, with its harmonious, sweet, sour, and spicy flavours. Enjoy your spicy wings...

serving 4 People

time 45 min

INGREDIENTS

• 1 kg chicken wings

• 250 ml yoghurt

• 100 g tomato paste

• 1 small onion

• 50 g garlic

• 1 red chili pepper

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoon olive oil

How to Cook

1. Begin by marinating the chicken wings to enhance their flavor and tenderness. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings with a generous amount of yoghurt, which not only adds a creamy texture but also helps to tenderize the meat. Next, incorporate a few tablespoons of tomato paste, which will contribute a rich tomato flavor and a beautiful color to the dish. Finely chop one medium onion and a few cloves of garlic, adding them to the mixture for an aromatic base. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, include a chopped chili pepper, adjusting the quantity to match your spice preference. Season the marinade with salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring that every wing is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, although allowing it to sit for a few hours or even overnight would deepen the flavors significantly.

2. After the marinating period, take a large skillet and heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. The oil should shimmer slightly, indicating that it is hot enough for cooking. Olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps in achieving a nice crispy exterior on the chicken wings.

3. Carefully add the marinated chicken wings to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, which can lead to steaming rather than searing. Cook the wings for about 10 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing them to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. After 10 minutes, flip the wings to cook the other side for an additional 10 minutes. Keep an eye on the wings to prevent burning, adjusting the heat as necessary to maintain a steady cooking temperature.

4. Once both sides are nicely browned, reduce the heat to low. This step is crucial as it allows the chicken wings to simmer gently, ensuring they cook through without drying out. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the wings simmer for an additional 15 minutes. This low and slow cooking method will help the flavors meld beautifully while ensuring the chicken is tender and juicy, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

5. When the wings are fully cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. They can be served alongside a fragrant saffron rice, which complements the spices in the wings beautifully, or with your favorite side dish, such as a fresh salad or grilled vegetables. The vibrant colors and aromas will make for an enticing presentation on the dinner table.

6. For an extra kick, consider drizzling some homemade spicy tomato sauce over the wings just before serving. This sauce can be made by sautéing diced tomatoes with garlic, onion, and chili flakes, simmering until thickened. The addition of this sauce will elevate the dish, adding layers of flavor and a delightful spiciness that pairs well with the seasoned chicken.

7. Finally, gather your family and friends to enjoy this delicious Turkish-style chicken wings dish. The combination of spices, the tender meat, and the vibrant sides will surely impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Chicken Wings

PROTIPS

For a spicier dish, use 2 or 3 chili peppers.

If you don't have tomato paste, you can use 1/2 cup of crushed tomatoes.

You can also add other vegetables to this dish, such as carrots, celery, or zucchini.