Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary ingredient in this recipe?
The primary ingredient is 3 lbs of chicken wings, cleaned and with wing segments separated.
How many cloves of garlic are required?
The recipe requires exactly 40 cloves of peeled garlic.
What is the recommended oven temperature for baking?
The oven should be preheated to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).
How long should the chicken wings bake in the oven?
The wings should be baked for 1 hour while covered with aluminum foil.
What is the final step to get a crispy exterior on the wings?
After baking, remove the foil and switch the oven to broil for 5 to 10 minutes until they are golden-brown.
What kind of oil is used in the marinade?
The recipe calls for 1/8 cup of cold-pressed olive oil.
What is Pernod and do I need it?
Pernod is an anise-flavored liqueur used in the marinade to provide a unique aromatic profile.
What herbs are included in the garlic mixture?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon each of dried rosemary, dried thyme, and dried oregano.
What type of salt is preferred for this dish?
Kosher salt is the preferred choice for seasoning these wings.
Should the garlic cloves be chopped or left whole?
The cloves should be peeled but left whole to infuse the oil and chicken during the long baking process.
What size baking dish should I use?
A large baking dish approximately 9x12 inches is recommended to fit the wings in a single layer.
What are the recommended side dishes for this meal?
It is best served with crusty French bread to soak up the garlic sauce and a vibrant green salad.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, but remember that fresh herbs are less potent than dried; typically you use three times the amount of fresh herbs.
Is the chicken supposed to be in a single layer?
Yes, arranging the wings in a single layer ensures even cooking and better texture when broiling.
How do I prevent the wings from burning during the broiling phase?
You must keep a close watch on the oven as broiling happens very quickly, usually taking only 5 to 10 minutes.
What is the preparation for the chicken wings?
The wings should be cleaned and the wing segments should be separated before starting.
Can I substitute the Pernod?
If you do not have Pernod, you can use another anise-flavored liqueur like Ouzo or omit it if necessary.
Should I rest the chicken after cooking?
Yes, let the wings rest for a few minutes after removing them from the oven before serving.
How much pepper should I add?
The recipe specifies 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
Is this dish considered an appetizer or a main meal?
It can be served as both; the tags suggest it works well as an appetizer or a family meal.
Is this recipe Mediterranean influenced?
Yes, the use of olive oil, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs like oregano and rosemary gives it a Mediterranean profile.
Do I need to marinate the chicken for a long time?
The recipe suggests pouring the marinade over and baking immediately, but the hour of covered baking infuses the flavor deeply.
What happens to the 40 cloves of garlic after baking?
The garlic becomes soft, mellow, and spreadable, making it perfect for eating with the crusty bread.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh cloves?
No, the whole fresh garlic cloves are a central component of this specific dish and provide a flavor that powder cannot replicate.
Does this recipe contain any sugar?
Based on the ingredient list, there is no added sugar in this recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat until the chicken reaching an internal temperature of 165 F.
Can I use frozen wings?
You can, but they must be fully thawed and patted dry before adding the marinade to ensure they brown properly.
What does the olive oil do in this recipe?
The olive oil acts as the base for the marinade, helping the herbs stick to the wings and helping the garlic cloves roast.
Is the recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe does not contain any butter, milk, or cheese ingredients.
How many wings does 3 lbs typically include?
Depending on size, 3 lbs usually contains between 15 to 21 whole wings, which becomes 30 to 42 segments when separated.