These spicy Masala Chicken Wings are easy to marinade with simple Indian spices and Frank’s Red Hot Sauce. They can be oven baked, air fried, or grilled for your next gathering or game day. A crowd pleasing tasty and easy chicken recipe that takes minutes to put together.
Masala Chicken Wings

TRUTH- I wanted to keep this recipe to myself. However, a few of my friends who I shared the recipe with said I had to share it with others. With their advice, here I am sharing an Indian inspired Masala Chicken Wing recipe that is dear to my heart and hope you enjoy it just as much.
Jump to RecipeIT’S GRILLING SEASON

A combination of spices and sauces brings these Indian inspired Masala Chicken Wings to life. I am talking a lot of flavor in your mouth; a complete burst to be honest! Plus, the ingredients are most likely readily available in your kitchen already!
Go ahead and marinate some Masala Chicken Wings now!

Whether it is grilling season or not, I would make this herb and spice packed chicken masala recipe on repeat. It is not only quick to make but also considered healthy in my household. Meaning, it’s perfect for my keto, paleo, and allergen friendly followers out there.
What kind of chicken should I use for Indian Chicken Wings?
I have tried this recipe with chicken wings, chicken thighs, and chicken legs. All of which come out tasting great. Be sure to leave the skin on. Another pro tip is to make some slits in the chicken itself, stuff it with some spices, and then place the skin back over the chicken. When you cook with the skin on, a nice crisp remains with the masala being able to cling on to the meat. Trust me-you will thank me later.
What spices should I use for Masala Chicken?
For this particular recipe I recommend dried coriander powder as a must. It pairs well with fresh ginger and garlic making every bite packed with a burst of flavor.
What hot sauce should I use?
Honestly, your favorite hot sauce that is in your fridge at this current moment will work well. I love using a buffalo sauce for a more cayenne pepper taste. I’ve always loved Frank’s Wing Sauces which is why I recommend it. It has a different smoked flavor compared to just red chili powder or tabasco sauce (great addition in soups!).
Why Red’s Hot Original Sauce?
Masala wings taste great with Red’s Hot Original Sauce but that shouldn’t be limited. Frank’s Hot Buffalo Wing Sauce is also tasty and perfect for this wing mixture. Something about the flavors in this sauce bind well with the other ingredients. I like to add a pinch of red chili powder for extra spice, but do this at your own spice tolerance level.
Try it with my Ranch Dressing Recipe or Cilantro Sauce Recipe
Vegetarian Option
Want to try to go vegetarian? Because I know someone will ask… Then give this Masala Marinade a try with extra firm tofu or paneer! The flavors are truly amazing and you will love it time and time again.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Masala Chicken Wings Recipe

A combination of spices and sauces that are mixed with chicken wings and grilled/baked to perfection!
- 15 chicken winglets or 6 drumsticks (skin-on)
- 1/4 cup buffalo or hot sauce
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger (more or less)
- 1 tsp fresh grated garlic (more or less)
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1/8 tsp turmeric
- 1 tbsp coriander powder
- red chili powder
- black pepper
- salt
- lemon slices
- finely chopped cilantro for garnishing
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Mix the hot sauce, oil, thyme, turmeric, ginger, garlic, red chili powder, black pepper, and salt together.
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Combine the marinade mixture with the chicken and let it marinate for 30 minutes-24 hours.
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If using chicken legs, then lift the skin and cut some slits using a knife into the chicken and then place the skin back over the slits. (video available on my Instagram Highlights)
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Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before beginning to cook.
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Grill on indirect heat until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
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Bake uncovered at 425 degrees until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees (chicken wings for 30 minutes and chicken legs for about 1 hour)
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Alternatively you can also air fry or convection oven the chicken.
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Top with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
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Dip in my ranch dressing or cilantro sauce recipe and ENJOY HOT!