Chicken Wings and Chili: football party food favorites

To many party-goers, Super Bowl wouldn't be the same without chicken wings. But instead of (or in addition to) the usual Buffalo wings, offer an international variety, suggests Connie Bolle, director of sales for Levy Events Catering in Chicago.

Chicken wing choices: Bolle recommends an interesting assortment: platters of Asian teriyaki-marinated wings, garlic-spiced, honey-barbeque, and Caribbean jerk-spiced wings. Click here for a recipe for spicy apricot sesame wings.

Chili variations: Winfrey also advocates serving a variety of chilis to up the ante on a classic crowd pleaser. Chili made with lamb, and white bean chili are among his personal favorites.

Easy recipes abound for lamb, beef, pork, and chicken chili, as well as for savory combinations of spicy beans and vegetables. And, of course, chili is a fabulous make-ahead or slow cooker choice. Try kick-off turkey chili, winter white chili with pork, or fiery white chili with chicken.

Encourage appetizer-size portions by setting out small bowls, Winfrey recommends. That way guests will be more inclined to come back and try a little of everything.

Offer beverage varieties, too: When it comes to beverages, beer is often the drink of choice. In addition to stockpiling the familiar American brands in the refrigerator or a large cooler, you may want to consider offering several imported beers, such as Corona or Dos Equis, for example, if chili and guacamole are featured on the menu. In addition to beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages, be sure to offer plenty of non-alcoholic beverages, as well.