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Fried Chicken Wings Using Italian Salad Dressing are my go-to for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack! This easy recipe combines juicy chicken wings with the bold, zesty flavors of Italian dressing, creating a mouthwatering marinade that takes them to the next level.
Fried to golden, crispy perfection, these wings are irresistibly tender on the inside with a satisfying crunch on the outside. Perfect for game days, parties, or a fun family treat, they’re quick to make and sure to impress!
Ingredients for chicken wings with italian dressing
For those ready to embark on the flavorful journey of making fried chicken wings using Italian salad dressing recipe, here’s everything you’ll need to ensure your wings come out perfectly every time, whether you’re aiming for crispy baked Italian chicken wings or Italian chicken wings air fryer style.
- Chicken Wings: 2 lbs, whole wings or pre-cut drumettes and flats
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for basic seasoning
- Italian salad dressing (store-bought or homemade): 1 cup
- all-purpose flour: 1 cup
- Vegetable oil (for frying): 2 cups
- Homemade italian dressing: 1 cup, your choice of creamy or oil-based
- Olive Oil: 3/4 cup
- Vinegar: 1/4 cup (white vinegar)
- Lemon Juice: 2 tbsp
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Dried Herbs: 2 tsp each (oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning)
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tsp
- Honey or Sugar: 1 tsp
- Salt & Pepper: To taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese, or fresh parsley
You can make this delicious homemade Italian dressing using the recipe above, or grab a store-bought version to save time!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Fried Chicken Wings Using Italian Salad Dressing Recipe
Ready to transform simple ingredients into an unforgettable meal? Follow these detailed steps to master the art of making fried chicken wings using Italian salad dressing recipe, suitable for any cooking method you choose, from crispy baked Italian chicken wings to Italian chicken wings air fryer style.
Cleaning and Prepping the Chicken Wings:
- Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the dressing adheres well.
- If whole, separate the wings into drumettes and flats by cutting at the joint for more even cooking.

Marinating:
- Mix Base Ingredients: Whisk vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, mustard, honey, herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Add Olive Oil: Gradually whisk in olive oil until emulsified.
- Taste & Adjust: Balance flavors with extra honey, oil, or seasoning as needed.

- Put the wings in a big bowl or a resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the Italian salad dressing over the wings, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, though several hours or overnight is ideal for deeper flavor.
- Remove wings from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
- Place the flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each wing in the flour, shaking off the excess.
Frying:
- Heat oil in a large frying pan or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the wings in batches until they are crispy and golden brown, which should take around 8-10 minutes.
- Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Garnishes:
- Arrange the wings on a platter. Garnish as desired and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

If you’re looking to pair these scrumptious Italian salad dressing marinated chicken wings with a fresh and vibrant salad, be sure to visit Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad Recipe.
Variations of the Fried Chicken Wings with Italian Salad Dressing Recipe
Let’s explore some delicious variations and alternative dressings to keep your wing game fresh and exciting!
Variations of Italian Dressing:
- Zesty Italian: Adds a tangy spice, perfect for those who like a little heat.
- Garlic Italian: Enhanced with garlic flavor, ideal for Italian glazed chicken wings oven or Italian glazed chicken wings air fryer versions
- Low-fat Italian: An excellent option for a healthier choice without compromising on flavor
Optional Additions and Substitutions:
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons for a deeper umami taste in chicken wings with Italian dressing and soy sauce
- Tomato Sauce: ½ cup for a saucy version like Italian chicken wings in tomato sauce
- Glazing Syrup: Honey or maple syrup for an Italian glazed chicken wings recipe that requires a sweet finish
- Herbs and Spices: Red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, or fresh basil for a customized touch
Dietary Adjustments:
- Gluten-Free: Ensure your Italian dressing and soy sauce are certified gluten-free
- Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium versions of Italian dressing and soy sauce, or make your dressing to control the salt content

Alternative Cooking Methods for Fried Chicken Wings Using Italian Salad Dressing Recipe
Air Frying Fried Chicken Wings:
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
- Place the marinated wings in the basket in a single layer, possibly in batches, for Italian chicken wings air fryer execution.
- Cook for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until the exterior is crispy and the meat is cooked through.
Grilling Chicken Wings:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Place wings directly on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally to achieve Italian grilled chicken wings with perfect char marks.
- Keep a close watch to avoid flare-ups from the dressing oil.
baked fried chicken wings using italian salad dressing:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack for crispy baked Italian chicken wings.
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until they are golden and crispy, turning them over halfway through the cooking time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Fried Chicken Wings Using Italian Salad Dressing
Here are the top mistakes to avoid so your wings turn out crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor:
Over-marinating the Chicken Wings
We get it—you want all that chicken wings Italian dressing flavor to soak in, but too much time in the marinade can result in mushy skin and a soggy texture. Aim for 30 minutes to 2 hours max to marinate your wings. That’s all the time they need to soak up all the delicious, tangy goodness without getting too soft.
Not Drying the Wings Before Frying
Wings need to be dry before they hit the hot oil. Moisture equals splatter and a soggy fry. Pat your wings dry with a paper towel before you dunk them into the fryer. The crispy exterior you’re dreaming of depends on this step when you’re cooking those chicken wings Italian dressing beauties!
Using the Wrong Frying Oil
Not all oils are created equal, especially when frying. Go for oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable or peanut oil. Olive oil can burn too quickly, which means your chicken wings’ Italian dressing won’t get that perfect golden crunch. So, save the olive oil for your salad and grab something else for the fry!
Overcrowding the Pan
Trying to fry too many wings at once? Bad move! When you overcrowd the pan, the wings don’t fry evenly, and they end up steaming instead of getting crispy. Fry in batches and give those chicken wings with Italian dressing the space they need to cook up nice and crisp!
Skipping the Seasoning Boost
Italian dressing is great, but a little extra kick never hurt anyone. Don’t forget to season your wings with salt, pepper, and even a pinch of garlic powder or paprika before frying. The chicken wings Italian dressing marinade adds flavor, but a little extra seasoning on the wings can take them to the next level!
Not Checking Oil Temperature
Too hot? Burnt wings. Too cold? Greasy, soggy wings. The magic number is around 350°F (175°C) for frying. Use a thermometer to make sure your oil is at the perfect temperature before you start frying your chicken wings in Italian dressing. It’ll make all the difference!

Recommended Sides for Fried Chicken Wings Using Italian Salad Dressing Recipe
- Starches: Pair your wings with a side of garlic bread, rosemary roasted potatoes, or a classic risotto to complement the Italian flavors. These sides work wonderfully with Italian grilled chicken wings and chicken wings with Italian dressing and soy sauce.
- Salads: A crisp Caesar salad or a fresh Caprese salad can balance the richness of the wings, making for a lighter, refreshing contrast.
- Dips: Offer a variety of dips such as creamy Gorgonzola sauce, ranch dressing, or a simple marinara for dipping. These are especially delightful with easy Italian glazed chicken wings or any air-fried varieties.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Fried Chicken Wings
So, you’ve got a pile of crispy chicken wings and Italian dressing leftovers staring you down—and you’re thinking, “How do I make sure these stay just as delicious tomorrow?” Don’t fret! We’ve got the secrets to storing and reheating your wings so they stay crispy, juicy, and mouthwatering. Let’s make those leftovers just as irresistible as the first bite!
Storing Leftover Fried Chicken Wings
First things first: don’t leave your chicken wings Italian dressing on the counter all night! Store them right, and they’ll be golden when you’re ready for round two.
- Cool ‘Em Down: Let those wings cool to room temperature before storing them. If you put them in the fridge hot, you’re asking for soggy wings.
- Airtight Containers: Use an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil to keep moisture out and flavor in. No one likes dry, sad wings!
- Fridge Time: Pop them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Any longer, and they start losing their crispy charm.
- Freezer Bonus: Got a ton of leftover chicken wings with Italian dressing? You can store them in the freezer for as long as three months. Just make sure to wrap them securely to prevent freezer burn!
Reheating Leftover Fried Chicken Wings
Now, it’s time to bring those chicken wings Italian dressing back to life! Here’s how to reheat your wings without sacrificing that crispy crunch:
- In the Oven (The Crispy Hero): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange your wings on a baking sheet that is lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method revives the crispy texture and keeps the flavor locked in.
- In the Air Fryer (Crisp Overload): If you have an air fryer, this is your best friend for reheating wings. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and cook the wings for about 5-8 minutes, flipping once. They’ll be just as crunchy as they were when they were initially fried!
- On the Stovetop (Quick and Tasty): Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat and toss the wings in to crisp up. This method keeps the outside crispy while the inside stays juicy and tender. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
- Microwave (If You Must): Okay, so this is the last resort—but if you’re in a hurry, pop your wings on a microwave-safe plate, cover them with a damp paper towel (to keep them from drying out), and heat for 1-2 minutes. They won’t be crispy, but they’ll still taste good!

Fried Chicken Wings Using Italian Salad Dressing Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Chicken Wings whole wings or pre-cut drumettes and flats
- 1 cup Italian salad dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- homemade Italian Salad Dressing:
- 3/4 cup Olive Oil
- 1/4 cup Vinegar white vinegar preferred
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 tsp each Dried Herbs oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning blend
- 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
- 1 tsp Honey or Sugar
- Salt and Pepper for basic seasoning
Instructions
- Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry. Separate into drumettes and flats if whole.
- Mix Base Ingredients: Whisk vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, mustard, honey, herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add Olive Oil: Gradually whisk in olive oil until the mixture is emulsified.
- Balance flavors with extra honey, oil, or seasoning as needed.
- Place the wings in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag and pour the dressing over them, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Remove wings from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
- Place the flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each wing in the flour, shaking off the excess.
- Heat oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully add the wings in batches, frying for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Arrange the wings on a platter. Garnish as desired and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Marinating Tip: For more flavor, you can marinate overnight, but don’t exceed 12 hours to avoid a mushy texture.
- Oil Tip: Always monitor the oil temperature to ensure consistent frying and avoid burning.
- Air Fryer Alternative: These wings can also be cooked in an air fryer at 375°F for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.
- Variations: Experiment with different Italian salad dressing flavors like creamy Italian or zesty for a unique twist.
If you enjoy this recipe, please leave a rating and a comment below! We’d appreciate any tips or photos of your results. Thank you for being part of our community! 🙂
FAQs about Fried Chicken Wings Using Italian Salad Dressing Recipe
Should I marinate wings before deep frying?
Marinating chicken wings before deep frying is highly recommended as it infuses them with flavors and can help tenderize the meat. For recipes like fried chicken wings using Italian salad dressing recipe, a good marinade adds depth and character, enhancing the overall taste of dishes like Italian glazed chicken wings recipe.
Do you rinse the marinade off the chicken before frying?
It’s not necessary to rinse off the marinade before frying chicken wings; instead, allow excess marinade to drip off. Rinsing can remove the flavors you’ve developed during marination, which is especially important for recipes such as chicken wings with Italian dressing and soy sauce.
How long does it take to marinate chicken wings?
Chicken wings should ideally not be marinated for more than 24 hours. Over-marinating can lead to the meat becoming too soft or mushy, affecting the texture of crispy baked Italian chicken wings or Italian chicken wings air fryer style.
Is it better to marinate or dry rub chicken wings?
Whether to marinate or use a dry rub depends on the desired flavor profile and texture; marinades tend to impart more moisture and can tenderize more effectively, which is excellent for Italian glazed chicken wings oven. Dry rubs provide a quicker, more intensely flavored crust ideal for Italian grilled chicken wings.
How do I get my sauce to stick to my wings?
To ensure the sauce sticks to the wings, apply it during the last few minutes of cooking so it can caramelize without burning. This method is perfect for Italian glazed chicken wings air fryer, locking in flavor while maintaining a crispy texture.
How do you get marinade to stick to the wings?
For marinades to adhere better, ensure the wings are dry before applying the marinade and use ingredients like mustard or honey as emulsifiers, which are excellent for recipes like Italian glazed chicken wings recipe.
Do you wash chicken wings before marinating?
It is generally not recommended to wash chicken wings before marinating, as it can spread bacteria around your kitchen. Patting the wings dry with paper towels is sufficient to prepare them for a delicious marinade, as used in chicken wings in Italian recipes.
Sounds delicious! Love the herbs and lemon touch.