There’s something magical about a plate of honey BBQ chicken wings, isn’t there? I remember the first time I made these delightful bites for our annual family gathering. The kids were playing in the backyard, and the air was filled with laughter and the smell of something good cooking. As soon as the wings hit the table, they were gone in a flash! The sweet and sticky sauce, combined with the crispy texture of the wings, made them an instant hit. Everyone kept coming back for more, and even my picky eaters couldn’t resist.
These honey BBQ chicken wings have become a staple in our household, especially when we’re hosting friends or looking to watch a game together. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just a few ingredients to create something that tastes like a labor of love. I remember my husband raving about them to his coworkers the next day, which gave my culinary ego a nice little boost!
It’s not just the taste, though; it’s the memories we create around the table. Whether it’s a casual Friday night dinner or a lively birthday celebration, these wings bring a sense of joy and togetherness. If you’re anything like me, you’ll love the way these wings fill your home with an irresistible aroma and bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, let’s dive in and make some delicious honey BBQ chicken wings!
How to Make Honey BBQ Chicken Wings
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Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 20 chicken wings (or drumettes)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- ½ cup honey
Directions:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F, ensuring it’s nice and hot.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour with chili powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until the mixture is well blended.
- Coat each chicken wing by rolling them in the flour mixture, ensuring even coverage. Shake off any excess.
- Place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment, making sure they’re in a single layer.
- Bake in the oven for about 45 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they achieve a golden, crispy texture.
- Increase the oven’s temperature to 500°F.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the barbecue sauce and honey until smooth and well integrated.
- Once the wings are baked, carefully toss them in the honey BBQ sauce until they’re completely coated.
- Return the wings to the baking sheet and spread them out evenly.
- Bake for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, watching them closely until the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Customizing Honey BBQ Wings: Alternative Ingredients
If you find yourself without all-purpose flour, try using almond flour for a gluten-free twist. You can swap paprika with cayenne pepper for a spicier kick or use maple syrup instead of honey for a unique sweetness. For those who prefer boneless wings, feel free to use chicken tenders instead.
Best Ways to Store Leftover Honey BBQ Wings
To keep your leftover wings fresh, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to keep them longer, freeze the wings on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Perfect Pairings for Honey BBQ Chicken Wings
These wings pair wonderfully with a crisp coleslaw or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness. For drinks, consider a chilled glass of iced tea or a light lager beer. To round out your meal, serve alongside some roasted potato wedges or buttery corn on the cob.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Honey BBQ Wings
To achieve the crispiest wings, ensure your chicken is patted dry before coating in flour. Consider double baking: bake once to crisp the skin, then again after saucing for a sticky finish. Always turn your wings during the cooking process for even browning.
Seasonal Twists for Honey BBQ Wings
For a summer variation, add a splash of lime juice to your sauce for a citrusy zing. In the fall, incorporate a teaspoon of pumpkin spice for an autumnal touch. During winter months, include a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen wings for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen wings, but it’s important to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even baking and a crispy texture. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture before proceeding with the recipe steps.
Is there a way to make these wings less spicy?
Absolutely! Simply reduce the amount of chili powder or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor. You can also replace chili powder with a milder seasoning such as smoked paprika or omit it depending on your taste preferences.
How can I make the wings extra crispy?
To make your wings extra crispy, ensure they are dry before coating, and consider using a wire rack on your baking sheet to allow air circulation. You can also broil them briefly at the end of the cooking process to achieve an even crispier skin.
What can I use instead of honey?
If you’re looking for a honey substitute, agave nectar or maple syrup can both provide a similar sweetness with slightly different flavor profiles. Adjust the quantity to taste if necessary, as these alternatives are slightly less sweet than honey.
Can I grill these wings instead of baking them?
Definitely! Grilling is a great alternative for cooking these wings. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the wings for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally. Finish by brushing them with the honey BBQ sauce and grill for an additional 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
Are there any low-sodium versions of this recipe?
To make a low-sodium version, use a low-sodium barbecue sauce and omit or reduce the salt in the flour mixture. You can also experiment with salt-free seasoning blends to add flavor without increasing sodium content. Always taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Honey BBQ Chicken Wings
Equipment
- Oven
- mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- parchment paper
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 20 pieces chicken wings (or drumettes)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- ½ cup honey
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
For the Chicken Wings:
- In a bowl, combine the flour, chili powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Coat each chicken wing in this mix, ensuring to shake off any excess flour.
- Place the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the wings for approximately 45 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they are crispy and golden brown.
- After 45 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 500°F (260°C).
For the Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, mix the barbecue sauce and honey together until thoroughly blended. Once the wings are ready, gently toss them in the sauce to coat evenly.
- Return the coated wings to the baking sheet, spacing them out evenly.
- Bake again for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, watching closely until the sauce is bubbling and becomes slightly caramelized. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
