Popeyes Ghost Pepper Wings: Heat Level, Prices & Everything You Need to Know (2025)
Popeyes Ghost Pepper Wings pack genuine heat through a dry rub featuring ghost pepper—one of the world’s hottest chilies at 855,000 to 1,041,427 Scoville Heat Units. Available in 6-piece ($5.99-$6.99) and 12-piece ($7.99-$9.99) sizes, these crispy wings deliver bold Louisiana flavor with intense spice that builds with each bite.
What Makes Ghost Pepper Wings Different?
Popeyes introduced Ghost Pepper Wings as a dry rub option in their permanent wings lineup. Unlike saucy wings, the ghost pepper seasoning is applied as a coating after frying, creating an intense, flavorful heat experience.
Two Style Options:
- Bone-In Wings: Traditional wings on a mild Louisiana-seasoned base, hand-breaded and dusted with ghost pepper rub
- Boneless Wings: Bite-sized chicken pieces with the same fiery seasoning
The ghost pepper (Bhut Jolokia) measures 855,000-1,041,427 SHU—roughly 100 times hotter than jalapeños and 3 times spicier than habaneros.
Current Prices (December 2025)
| Size | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 6-Piece Wings | $5.99–$6.99 |
| 12-Piece Wings | $7.99–$9.99 |
| Combo Meals | $8.99–$13.99 |
Prices vary by location. App-exclusive deals occasionally offer 6 wings for $5. Combo meals include one side and a drink.
Nutrition Facts (6-Piece Serving)
- Calories: 670-720
- Total Fat: 35-46g
- Protein: 27-45g
- Carbohydrates: 21-79g
- Sodium: 1,850mg
Allergens: Wheat, soy, eggs, milk. Not gluten-free due to breading.
Nutritional values vary slightly by preparation method and location.
How Spicy Are They Actually?
Heat Level: Medium-high for most people. If you enjoy buffalo hot wings or spicy chicken sandwiches, you can likely handle these.
What to Expect:
- Heat starts mild, then intensifies over 2-3 wings
- Burn lingers in your mouth for 5-10 minutes
- Dry rub creates uneven spice distribution—some bites are hotter than others
- Much spicier than Popeyes Signature Hot, but not as extreme as eating pure ghost pepper
First-Timer Tips:
- Start with 6 pieces to test your tolerance
- Keep dairy nearby (ranch, milk, or ice cream)
- Don’t eat on an empty stomach
- Wash hands after eating—don’t touch your face
Best Dips & Sides to Cool the Heat
Recommended Dipping Sauces:
- Buttermilk Ranch (included with orders)
- Blackened Ranch
- BoldBQ Sauce
Cooling Sides:
- Biscuits: Absorb heat and add buttery comfort
- Coleslaw: Creamy, cool contrast to spice
- Mashed Potatoes: Smooth texture calms the burn
- Cajun Fries: If you want more heat
Best Drinks: Milk, milkshakes, sweet tea, or lemonade. Avoid carbonated drinks and alcohol—they intensify the burn.
How to Order
In-Store/Drive-Thru: Order from the wings menu in your preferred size
Mobile/Delivery: Available through:
- Popeyes App
- DoorDash
- Uber Eats
- Grubhub
Mix Flavors: 12-piece orders allow 2 different flavors; 24-piece orders allow 4 choices.
Are They Worth Trying?
Best For:
- Spice enthusiasts who regularly eat hot foods
- Those wanting to test ghost pepper heat safely
- Anyone seeking bold flavor with crispy texture
Skip If:
- You have low spice tolerance
- Sensitive to capsaicin or digestive issues
- Looking for kid-friendly options
The Verdict: Ghost Pepper Wings deliver authentic heat without going to extremes. They’re a solid choice for spice lovers but may overwhelm casual diners. At under $7 for 6 pieces, they’re worth trying if you enjoy spicy challenges.
FAQs
Yes, as of 2025, Ghost Pepper Wings are part of the permanent wings menu at participating locations. Availability varies by region and individual franchise.
Ghost Pepper is the spiciest option. Signature Hot offers less intensity, Sweet ‘N Spicy has moderate heat with sweetness, while Honey BBQ, Lemon Pepper, and Garlic Parmesan are mild.
No, the ghost pepper dry rub comes at one heat level. For milder options, choose other flavors like Honey BBQ or Garlic Parmesan.
No, they contain gluten from the breading. Contact your local Popeyes for specific allergen information.
Drink cold milk or eat dairy products like ice cream—casein neutralizes capsaicin. Avoid water, which spreads the heat. Bread or rice also helps.
Not recommended due to high Scoville rating. Popeyes offers kid-friendly mild flavors like Honey BBQ or Garlic Parmesan.
Approximately 1,340-1,440 calories, depending on preparation. This is a high-calorie, high-fat option.
Yes, most orders include buttermilk ranch. You can request additional sauces at most locations.
