Description
These Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings are the perfect combination of crispy, sticky, sweet, and fiery. Coated in a bold glaze made with honey, brown sugar, and hot sauce, these wings are finger-licking good and perfect for game days, parties, or a delicious weeknight treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Wings:
- 2 pounds of chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Sweet and Spicy Glaze:
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup hot sauce (choose your favorite brand for desired heat)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Wings:
- Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large bowl, toss the wings with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
Cook the Wings:
Baking Method:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the seasoned wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
Frying Method:
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the wings in batches for 8-10 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
Make the Sweet and Spicy Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, hot sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and cayenne pepper.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture starts to bubble and slightly thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
Toss the Wings in the Glaze:
- Transfer the cooked wings to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the sweet and spicy glaze over the wings and toss until they are evenly coated.
Serve:
- Arrange the glazed wings on a serving platter.
- Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Notes
- For crispier wings, bake on a wire rack to allow air circulation.
- Adjust heat levels by adding more or less hot sauce and cayenne pepper.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking / Frying
- Cuisine: American