Wingstop Louisiana Rub Recipe

The Wingstop Louisiana Rub is a dry rub chicken wing favorite that combines bold Cajun-inspired spices with a savory, garlicky punch. This easy copycat recipe delivers the same crispy, flavorful wings you love—right from your own kitchen. No sauce, no mess—just perfectly seasoned wings with a Southern kick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with bold, smoky Cajun flavor
• No deep frying—can be baked or air-fried
• No messy sauces, just a dry, crisp coating
• Perfect for game day, parties, or family dinners
• Customizable spice level
• Uses pantry-friendly ingredients
• Tastes just like the original from Wingstop
• Easy to double or scale for a crowd
• Great alternative to classic buffalo wings
• Can be made in under an hour

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken wings (drums and flats)
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Cayenne pepper
• Black pepper
• Oregano
• Dried thyme
• Brown sugar
• Salt
• Olive oil or melted butter (for coating)

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or set air fryer to 380°F (193°C).
2. Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels. This helps them get crispy.
3. In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, oregano, thyme, brown sugar, and salt to create the Louisiana rub.
4. Toss the wings in a large bowl with olive oil or melted butter until coated.
5. Sprinkle the spice mix over the wings and toss again to coat evenly.
6. Arrange wings in a single layer on a wire rack over a baking sheet (or in the air fryer basket).
7. Bake for 40–45 minutes (flip halfway) or air-fry for 22–25 minutes, until crispy and cooked through.
8. Let rest for a few minutes before serving for maximum flavor.

Servings and timing

Servings: Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes (oven) / 25 minutes (air fryer)
Total time: 50 minutes (oven) / 35 minutes (air fryer)

Variations

• Increase cayenne for a spicier kick
• Add a splash of lemon juice after baking for a zesty touch
• Use smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor
• Substitute chicken thighs or drumsticks for a meatier option
• Make it keto by skipping the brown sugar or using a low-carb substitute
• Try the rub on roasted potatoes or grilled shrimp

storage/reheating

Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 5–8 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain the crispiness.

FAQs

What is the Louisiana Rub flavor at Wingstop?

It’s a dry rub blend with Cajun-inspired spices, garlic, pepper, and a hint of sweetness. It’s bold but not overly spicy.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild to medium heat. You can adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your spice tolerance.

Can I make this without an oven or air fryer?

Yes, you can pan-fry the wings on medium heat until cooked through and crispy, though oven or air fryer gives the best dry-rub texture.

Do I need to marinate the wings?

No marination is required, but you can toss the wings in the rub and refrigerate for 1–2 hours for deeper flavor.

Can I use this rub on boneless wings?

Absolutely. The rub works just as well on boneless chicken bites or tenders.

How do I get my wings really crispy?

Pat them dry before seasoning, cook on a rack, and don’t overcrowd the pan or fryer. Air frying gives the crispiest result.

Can I make the rub in advance?

Yes, mix the spices and store in a sealed jar for up to 6 months in a cool, dry place.

Can I use frozen wings?

Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and baking.

What’s the best oil for this recipe?

Olive oil or melted butter work great. Butter adds richness, while oil keeps it lighter.

What sides go well with Louisiana Rub wings?

Classic sides like celery sticks, ranch or blue cheese dip, coleslaw, fries, or mac and cheese pair perfectly.

Conclusion

This Wingstop Louisiana Rub Recipe brings bold Cajun flavor and irresistible crispiness to your kitchen without the mess of sauces. Whether baked or air-fried, these wings are quick, flavorful, and always a hit. Perfect for any occasion, they’ll satisfy your craving for restaurant-style wings with homemade ease.

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