Recreating the Flavors of Publix Mardi Gras Wings

Publix's Mardi Gras wings are a fan favorite, with crispy fried chicken smothered in a Cajun and Creole-inspired garlic Parmesan sauce. This copycat recipe lets you recreate the signature flavors of those famous Publix wings from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Choosing the Best Chicken Wings

For tender, juicy wings that get uber crispy, select fresh, meaty wings. Look for wings where the tips are firmly attached and the meat sprung back when pressed.

Recreating the Flavors of Publix Mardi Gras Wings

Trim off any excess skin or loose pieces. Separate the drumsticks from the flats for even frying. Pat the wings completely dry before cooking.

Frying for Maximum Crispness

Frying makes these wings super crispy outside while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. Heat oil to 350°F and fry wings in batches for 12-15 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Let the oil return to temperature between batches. Drain fried wings on a wire rack or paper towels. Fry until deep golden brown and cooked through.

Assembling the Mardi Gras Sauce

While the wings fry, make the Mardi Gras sauce. Melt butter and blend in Cajun seasoning, minced garlic, lemon juice, Parmesan, and hot sauce.

The Cajun seasoning infuses traditional Mardi Gras flavors. Adjust the hot sauce to your desired spiciness. Bring the sauce just to a simmer before tossing with the wings.

Coating Wings for Full Flavor

To get each wing perfectly coated in sauce, toss them in a large bowl with some of the Mardi Gras sauce.

Add more sauce as needed to evenly coat each wing, tossing frequently. Work in batches to ensure proper coverage. The sauce clings to the nooks and crispy skin beautifully.

Baking Until Sticky and Caramelized

To finish the wings, bake them on a parchment lined sheet at 400°F for 5-8 minutes. This helps the sauce get sticky and lightly caramelized.

Keep a close eye to avoid burning. For extra flavor, sprinkle on more Cajun seasoning and Parmesan before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Cool ranch dressing for dipping complements the heat of these wings beautifully. Offer cut wedges of lime to squeeze over top. Celery sticks and creamy coleslaw are perfect sidekicks.

Plate the wings on a bed of shredded lettuce for a fun Mardi Gras-inspired presentation. Pair with an icy cold beer for the complete Publix wing experience.

Key Tips for Mardi Gras Wing Success

Follow these tips for crispy, saucy wings just like Publix:

- Pat wings completely dry before frying
- Fry at 350°F until deep golden brown
- Toss fried wings in Mardi Gras sauce while hot
- Bake coated wings briefly to caramelize sauce
- Chill extra sauce for dipping

Storage and Reheating

Store cooled leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through and crispy, 10-15 minutes. Toss with extra sauce to coat again before serving.

The Mardi Gras sauce also keeps refrigerated for 1 week. Reheat gently before using as a dip or tossing with more wings.

Make Any Party a Mardi Gras

These copycat Publix Mardi Gras wings are perfect for any party or game day spread. The crispy fried chicken coated in creamy, spicy Cajun Parmesan sauce satisfies all your wing cravings and then some. Make extra sauce for dipping to let guests control the heat level. With the flavors of traditional Mardi Gras, one bite brings the spirit of New Orleans wherever you are.

Conclusion

Publix's popular Mardi Gras wings can easily be recreated right at home with this recipe. Crispy fried chicken wings get smothered in a quick garlic Parmesan sauce punched up with Cajun seasoning and hot sauce. Tossing the piping hot wings in the sauce ensures they get evenly coated. A final bake makes that sauce sticky and caramelized. These wings are full of the flavors of New Orleans and Mardi Gras. Your next party or game day is sure to be a hit serving up this mouthwatering Publix copycat recipe.

FAQs

Q: What's the ideal oil temp for frying the wings?

A: 350°F gives the best crispness without overcooking.

Q: How long should the wings fry?

A: 12-15 minutes ensures they are cooked through and crispy.

Q: What flavor is in the Mardi Gras sauce?

A: Cajun seasoning, garlic, lemon juice, Parmesan, and hot sauce.

Q: Why bake the coated wings?

A: Baking helps caramelize the sauce for more depth of flavor.

Q: How long do leftover wings last refrigerated?

A: About 4 days in an airtight container.