Crispy Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Wings Recipe

If you have been searching for that perfect blend of sweet, savory, and irresistible crispiness, look no further than Crispy Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Wings. These wings boast a crunchy exterior that locks in juicy tenderness beneath a luscious honey garlic glaze, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just craving a delicious snack, this recipe offers a wonderfully balanced and foolproof way to enjoy wings that are truly unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a simple set of ingredients is all it takes to make this delicious recipe come alive. Each ingredient is carefully selected to enhance the flavor, texture, and color of your Crispy Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Wings, ensuring every bite is better than the last.

• 2 pounds chicken wings: The star of the dish, providing tender meat with a perfect base for crispiness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the wings crisp up beautifully and adds a subtle fruitiness.
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
• 1 ½ tablespoons cornstarch: The secret to achieving that coveted crispy texture on the skin.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle bite and depth without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a warm, smoky aroma and a hint of color to the wings.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A perfect boost of savory garlic flavor incorporated into the wings.
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce: Contributes umami richness and balances the sweetness in the sauce.
• ½ cup honey (or maple syrup): Sweetens the dish naturally while creating a glossy, sticky coating.
• ½ cup tomato passata (or ¼ cup tomato paste): Adds a subtle tang and body to the honey garlic sauce.
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seed oil: Delivers a nutty, toasty note that elevates the overall flavor.
• Freshly chopped parsley: For a fresh, herbaceous finish and lively pop of green on top.

How to Make Crispy Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Wings

Step 1: Prepare and Season Your Wings

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a large baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a small bowl, mix together the seasoning blend of salt, cornstarch, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. This combination is crucial not only for flavors but also for creating that irresistible crispy skin. Place your chicken wings on the baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, then coat them evenly with the seasoning mix—don’t skimp on this part! Toss and spread the wings so every inch is covered with the magic dry rub.

Step 2: Bake Until Perfectly Crispy

Slide your baking tray into the oven and bake the wings for 30 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through to ensure both sides crisp up beautifully. This baking method results in wonderfully golden skin that’s crunchy without needing any deep-frying — making your wings lighter but still incredibly satisfying.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Honey Garlic Sauce

While the wings are baking, combine the honey garlic sauce ingredients in a small bowl: soy sauce, honey, tomato passata, toasted sesame seed oil, and garlic powder. This sauce is where the magic of the Crispy Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Wings truly shines. It’s sweet, garlicky, and just a little tangy, guaranteeing your wings will be bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Coat and Bake One More Time

Once your wings come out of the oven, drizzle them with the prepared sauce and gently toss to coat every wing evenly. Return the coated wings to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step lets the sauce caramelize slightly over the crispy chicken, building layers of flavor and texture that you will absolutely love.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the wings are perfectly baked, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top to add freshness and a beautiful burst of color. Now your Crispy Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Wings are ready to wow your friends, family, or just yourself. Get ready to enjoy the delightful crunch packed with sweet, savory goodness!

How to Serve Crispy Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Wings

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of vibrant green and freshness that balances the richness of the honey garlic sauce. You can also add toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch and a nutty aroma that complements the toasted sesame seed oil in the sauce.

Side Dishes

These wings pair absolutely perfectly with classic sides like creamy coleslaw or crisp celery sticks for a refreshing contrast. For something heartier, consider serving alongside buttery mashed potatoes or a steaming bowl of fried rice to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a gathering, presentation can make all the difference. Serve the wings stacked high on a rustic wooden board or arranged neatly on a platter lined with lettuce leaves for a colorful, inviting centerpiece. Small bowls of extra honey garlic sauce on the side invite guests to double-dip and savor the flavor explosion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crispy Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Wings can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes them a fantastic option for meal prep or quick snacks whenever hunger strikes.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked wings coated in the honey garlic sauce by placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will maintain their quality for about two months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

The best way to reheat these wings is in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes. This method helps restore their crispiness and warms the luscious sauce without drying out the meat, ensuring every bite is just as tasty as freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning. This helps the seasonings stick better and ensures a crispier finish.

Is it possible to make these wings spicier?

Yes! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chili flakes to the seasoning mix or the honey garlic sauce to bring in a kick of heat without overwhelming the sweetness.

Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?

Definitely. Maple syrup works wonderfully as a natural alternative. You could also experiment with agave nectar, but honey provides a unique depth and slight floral note that complements garlic beautifully.

What if I don’t have tomato passata or paste?

You can use a bit of ketchup in a pinch, though it may add a touch more sweetness and acidity. The passata adds a subtle tomato richness, but the recipe is quite forgiving if you skip or replace it.

How do I get the wings super crispy without frying?

The cornstarch coating combined with baking at a high temperature creates that crispy skin you crave. Flipping halfway through and ensuring the wings aren’t overcrowded on the tray are key steps to crispiness.

Final Thoughts

Giving the Crispy Honey Garlic Baked Chicken Wings a try will undoubtedly become one of your favorite culinary adventures. The combination of crunchy skin, juicy meat, and that perfectly balanced honey garlic sauce makes every bite an absolute joy. Once you make these wings, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again — trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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