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hot honey chicken wings recipe

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A family-favorite recipe for crispy, baked chicken wings tossed in a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze. This method avoids deep-frying for a healthier but equally delicious result, perfect for game nights and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

2.5 – 3 lbs Chicken Wings (flats and drumettes)
1 tbsp Olive Oil
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Onion Powder
1 tsp Smoked Paprika
1 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Black Pepper
4 tbsp Unsalted Butter
1/2 cup Hot Sauce
1/4 cup Honey
1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper
2 tbsp Fresh Parsley or Chives

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken wings thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for maximum crispiness
  2. Place the dry wings in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated
  3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, then place a wire rack on top
  4. Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they do not touch
  5. Bake for 40-50 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy
  6. While the wings bake, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the hot sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and optional cayenne pepper
  7. Bring the glaze mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes until the glaze slightly thickens
  8. Remove cooked wings from the oven and transfer them to a large clean bowl
  9. Pour the warm hot honey glaze over the wings and toss gently to coat completely
  10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives and serve immediately

Notes

For even crispier skin, place the seasoned wings on the wire rack in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes before baking to further dry out the skin.

Do not overcrowd the pan; use two baking sheets if necessary to ensure air can circulate around each wing.

If the glaze becomes too thick, thin it with a splash of water or extra hot sauce.

Air Fryer Alternative: Cook seasoned wings at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket every 5-7 minutes, then toss with glaze.

Always ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).