If you’ve ever grabbed a box of Publix Mardi Gras Wings from the deli, you know just how addictive they are – crispy, juicy, and packed with that zesty Cajun-inspired seasoning. But what if you could make them at home, fresh out of your own oven or air fryer? This Publix Mardi Gras Wings recipe is the ultimate copycat guide, giving you all the flavor you love without the trip to the store.
Whether you’re cooking for game day, a Mardi Gras party, or just a weeknight dinner, these wings will bring that New Orleans-inspired kick straight to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Publix Copycat Flavor: We’ve recreated the seasoning blend so you get that signature zesty kick.
- Healthier Than Fried: Make them baked or air-fried for a crispy result with less oil.
- Perfect for Parties: These wings are a crowd-pleaser and easy to scale for a large batch.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level to make them mild or extra fiery.
What Are Publix Mardi Gras Wings?
Publix Mardi Gras Wings are a fan-favorite item from the Publix Deli. They’re marinated with a unique Cajun-style seasoning that blends paprika, garlic, onion, and herbs with just the right amount of heat. The result is a crispy, spicy, and savory chicken wing that pairs perfectly with ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce.
The seasoning is the real star here. It has that Louisiana Creole vibe, balancing smoky, herby, and spicy flavors. The good news? You can easily recreate it at home with pantry spices.
Ingredients for Publix Mardi Gras Wings Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make these wings from scratch:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs chicken wings (split into flats and drumettes)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or other neutral oil)
For the Mardi Gras Seasoning Blend:
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (add more for spicier wings)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp white pepper (optional, but adds depth)
- 1 tsp brown sugar (for a touch of sweetness)
This seasoning mix is what gives the wings that signature Publix flavor. You can make extra and store it in a spice jar for future batches.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to getting crispy skin.
2. Mix the Seasoning
In a small bowl, whisk together all the spices. This is your Mardi Gras seasoning blend.
3. Season the Wings
Place the wings in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle the seasoning blend over the top. Toss until the wings are evenly coated.
4. Choose Your Cooking Method
Option 1: Oven-Baked
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (this helps them crisp up).
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway, until wings are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Option 2: Air Fryer
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange wings in a single layer in the basket.
- Cook for 20–24 minutes, shaking halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
5. Serve
Let the wings rest for 5 minutes, then serve hot with ranch, blue cheese dressing, or a squeeze of fresh lemon.
Tips for the Best Copycat Publix Mardi Gras Wings
- Dry the wings well: Moisture prevents crispiness.
- Don’t skip the rack: Air circulation is key for oven-baked wings.
- Make extra seasoning: It stores well for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
- Add a marinade step: For deeper flavor, toss the wings with oil and seasoning, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Publix Mardi Gras Wings are bold and spicy, so pair them with cooling sides and dips for a balanced meal. Here are some ideas:
- Ranch or Blue Cheese Dip: A must-have for cooling down the heat.
- Celery and Carrot Sticks: Classic wing bar sides.
- Cornbread or Garlic Bread: Adds a Southern touch.
- Coleslaw or Potato Salad: Creamy sides that complement the spice.
- Mardi Gras Drinks: Think sweet tea, lemonade, or even a Hurricane cocktail for a festive vibe.
Variations
Want to switch things up? Try these fun twists:
- Sweet & Spicy Mardi Gras Wings: Add 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup before baking for a sticky, sweet finish.
- Extra Hot: Double the cayenne pepper and sprinkle with a bit of hot sauce before serving.
- Lemon Pepper Mardi Gras: Add zest of one lemon to the seasoning mix for a citrusy punch.
- Grilled Wings: Cook over medium heat on a grill for smoky flavor.
Storage and Reheating
- Store: Leftover wings keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–8 minutes to crisp them back up.
- Freeze: You can freeze cooked wings for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
(Approx. for 4 servings)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
Why This Is the Best Publix Mardi Gras Wings Copycat Recipe
This recipe gives you all the flavor you love from Publix but with more control over the ingredients. You can make them less salty, adjust the spice level, and cook them healthier by baking or air frying instead of deep-frying. Plus, homemade wings are always fresher and more budget-friendly.
Final Thoughts
Making Publix Mardi Gras Wings at home is easier than you might think – and the results are amazing. With the right spice blend and cooking method, you’ll have crispy, flavorful wings that taste just like the ones from the Publix deli.
Whether you’re cooking for a Mardi Gras celebration, a game-day spread, or a weeknight dinner, these wings will be the star of the table. Give this recipe a try and bring the flavors of New Orleans to your kitchen tonight!