What is Confit Cooking?

Before we dive into the recipe, let's talk about what confit cooking is. Confit is a traditional French cooking technique that involves slow-cooking meat in its own fat. This method results in incredibly tender and flavorful meat, and it works wonders for chicken wings.

Preparing the Chicken Wings

To start, gather your ingredients: chicken wings, salt, pepper, garlic, thyme, and your choice of cooking fat (such as duck fat or olive oil). Begin by seasoning the chicken wings with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Then, add a few sprigs of fresh thyme to enhance the flavor. Let the wings marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.

Slow-Cooking in a Dutch Oven

Once the chicken wings have marinated, it's time to cook them in a Dutch oven. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). In the Dutch oven, heat the cooking fat until it melts. Place the chicken wings in a single layer, making sure they are fully submerged in the fat. Cover the Dutch oven and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let the wings cook for about 2-3 hours until they become tender and juicy.

Crisping the Wings

After the wings have finished slow-cooking, it's time to crisp them up for that perfect texture. Carefully remove the wings from the Dutch oven and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and transfer the baking sheet to the oven. Let the wings bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Serving and Enjoying

Once the wings are crispy and golden brown, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them as is. These Dutch Oven Confit Chicken Wings are perfect for game day gatherings, parties, or a delicious weeknight dinner.