What Pairs Well With Chicken Wings?
Chicken wings offer a versatile flavor canvas; the ideal pairings extend beyond just beer and celery, embracing both complementary and contrasting elements to enhance the spicy, savory, and tangy notes. The perfect pairing depends on the wing sauce, but a wide variety of drinks, sides, and even desserts can elevate your wing-eating experience.
The Undisputed Champion: Beer
Beer and chicken wings have a symbiotic relationship. The carbonation cuts through the richness of the wings, while the bitterness balances the spice. Finding the perfect beer depends largely on the sauce.
- Buffalo wings: An India Pale Ale (IPA) or a crisp lager are excellent choices. The hops in the IPA stand up to the heat, while the lager offers refreshing relief.
- BBQ wings: A brown ale or a porter will complement the smoky sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
- Lemon pepper wings: A wheat beer or a pilsner offers a bright, citrusy counterpoint to the tangy lemon pepper flavor.
- Garlic parmesan wings: A light-bodied pale ale or a blonde ale won’t overpower the delicate garlic and parmesan flavors.
Beyond the Brew: Alternative Drink Pairings
While beer is the classic choice, many other beverages can enhance your wing experience.
- Wine: A fruity rosé or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir can pair well with milder wings, while a bolder red like Zinfandel can stand up to spicier flavors.
- Cocktails: A Margarita or a Moscow Mule offer refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness of the wings. A Bloody Mary can be surprisingly good with spicy wings, as the tomato juice and spices complement the heat.
- Non-Alcoholic: Iced tea, especially unsweetened or lemon-flavored, provides a refreshing contrast. Sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or lemon is another excellent palate cleanser. Root beer can also surprisingly compliment BBQ flavors.
The Essential Sidekicks: Complementary Dishes
No wing night is complete without the right sides. The goal is to offer textural and flavor contrasts.
- Classic Companions: Celery sticks and carrot sticks with ranch or blue cheese dressing offer a cool, crisp counterpoint to the richness and spice of the wings.
- Starchy Supporters: French fries, onion rings, and potato salad provide a satisfying starchiness that balances the protein.
- Vegetable Variety: Coleslaw, cucumber salad, or a simple green salad offer a refreshing and lighter option. Corn on the cob is a perfect summer side.
- Something Hearty: Mac and cheese, baked beans, or chili can transform your wing night into a full-fledged feast.
Unexpected Treats: Dessert Pairings?
Believe it or not, certain desserts can pair surprisingly well with chicken wings, especially those with sweeter sauces.
- Sweet & Spicy Synergy: Pineapple upside-down cake or mango sorbet can complement the sweet and spicy notes of some wing sauces.
- Cooling Comfort: Vanilla ice cream or cheesecake offer a soothing contrast to the heat of spicy wings.
- Fruity Freshness: Watermelon or berries provide a refreshing and light end to the meal.
Flavor Profiles and Pairing Principles
Understanding flavor profiles is key to successful pairings. The goal is to either complement or contrast the flavors of the wings.
- Complementary Pairings: Match similar flavors. For example, a sweet BBQ sauce pairs well with a sweet brown ale.
- Contrasting Pairings: Balance opposing flavors. For example, spicy Buffalo wings pair well with a cool, refreshing lager.
- Consider the Intensity: Don’t overwhelm the wings. A delicate flavor wing doesn’t need an aggressive beer.
Common Pairing Mistakes to Avoid
- Overpowering Flavors: Choosing a drink or side dish that is too strong and masks the flavor of the wings.
- Ignoring the Sauce: Failing to consider the flavor profile of the wing sauce when selecting pairings.
- Lack of Variety: Sticking to the same old pairings without exploring new options.
- Insufficient Contrast: Not offering enough variety in textures and flavors, leading to palate fatigue.
A Note on Heat Levels
Spice plays a critical role in pairing choices.
- Mild Wings: More flexible pairings, from light wines to creamy dips.
- Medium Wings: IPAs, crisp lagers, and slightly sweeter side dishes.
- Hot Wings: Focus on cooling and refreshing elements like light lagers, iced tea, and creamy dips.
Example Pairing Chart
| Wing Sauce | Drink Pairing | Side Dish Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Buffalo | IPA, Lager, Margarita | Celery & Carrot Sticks, Blue Cheese |
| BBQ | Brown Ale, Porter, Root Beer | Coleslaw, Baked Beans |
| Lemon Pepper | Wheat Beer, Pilsner, Iced Tea | Cucumber Salad, French Fries |
| Garlic Parmesan | Pale Ale, Blonde Ale, White Wine | Green Salad, Mac and Cheese |
| Honey Sriracha | Riesling, Cider, Sparkling Water | Mango Salsa, Sweet Potato Fries |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ranch or blue cheese better with chicken wings?
The choice between ranch and blue cheese is largely a matter of personal preference. However, ranch is often considered more versatile, pairing well with a wider range of wing sauces. Blue cheese, with its pungent flavor, can be a more polarizing choice, but it’s a classic pairing for Buffalo wings.
What’s the best way to cool down after eating spicy wings?
Dairy products, like milk or yogurt, contain casein, a protein that binds to capsaicin, the compound that makes peppers hot, and helps wash it away. Other options include drinking something sweet, which can distract from the heat, or eating starchy foods like bread or rice.
Can I pair wings with sparkling wine?
Absolutely! Sparkling wine, especially a dry Brut or Extra Brut, can be a surprisingly good pairing for chicken wings. The bubbles cut through the richness of the wings, and the acidity balances the spice.
What kind of chips go well with chicken wings?
Plain potato chips, with their salty and crunchy texture, offer a simple yet satisfying contrast to the wings. Kettle-cooked chips provide a thicker, more substantial bite. Flavored chips, like BBQ or salt and vinegar, can also work, but be sure to consider how their flavors will interact with the wing sauce.
Are there any vegetarian sides that pair well with wings?
Yes! Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, offer a healthy and flavorful side. Corn on the cob, sweet potato fries, and macaroni and cheese are also excellent vegetarian options.
Can you pair chicken wings with dessert?
While it might seem unusual, certain desserts can complement the flavors of chicken wings. Consider desserts with sweet and spicy notes, such as pineapple upside-down cake or mango sorbet. Vanilla ice cream or cheesecake can also provide a soothing contrast to the heat of spicy wings.
What are some good appetizer options to serve before wings?
Light and refreshing appetizers are ideal, such as a Caprese salad, guacamole with tortilla chips, or a shrimp cocktail. Avoid anything too heavy or filling, as you want to save room for the main event – the wings!
What is the best cheese for dipping wings?
Beyond ranch and blue cheese, a creamy queso dip is a great choice, especially for spicier wings. You can also try a garlic aioli for a sophisticated flavor.
Is it okay to drink soda with chicken wings?
Yes, soda can be a perfectly acceptable pairing, especially for those who don’t drink alcohol. Cola, ginger ale, and lemon-lime soda all offer refreshing carbonation that cuts through the richness of the wings. Avoid overly sweet sodas, as they can overpower the flavor of the wings.
How can I enhance my wing-eating experience at home?
Creating a fun atmosphere is key! Put on some music, gather your friends or family, and set up a wing bar with a variety of sauces, dips, and sides. Use disposable plates and napkins for easy cleanup.
What should I do if I accidentally eat a wing that is too spicy?
Reach for a glass of milk or yogurt, which contain casein that helps to neutralize the capsaicin. Eating a spoonful of honey or sugar can also provide temporary relief. Avoid drinking water, as it can spread the capsaicin around your mouth.
How can I determine if a wine will pair well with my chicken wings?
Consider the body and acidity of the wine. Lighter-bodied wines with higher acidity, such as rosé or Pinot Noir, are generally better choices for milder wings. Bolder red wines, like Zinfandel, can stand up to spicier flavors. Don’t be afraid to experiment!