Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Spicy Honey Glaze Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the allure of crispy baked chicken wings. With their crunchy exterior and tender meat, chicken wings are the ultimate treat for gatherings or a cozy night in. This Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Spicy Honey Glaze recipe will elevate your wing game, leaving everyone craving more.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Chicken Wings
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will help achieve that coveted crispy texture.
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Pat Dry the Wings: Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving crispiness.
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Season the Wings: In a large bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Toss the chicken wings in the spice mixture until evenly coated.
Baking to Perfection
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Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This setup allows for proper air circulation, promoting even cooking and crispiness.
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Arrange the Wings: Place the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they’re not touching. This will help them crisp up beautifully.
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Bake the Wings: Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Cook until they are golden brown and crispy.
Making the Spicy Honey Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze: While the wings are baking, combine honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the mixture is well combined and slightly thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
Final Touches
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Glaze the Wings: Once the wings are done baking, remove them from the oven and toss them in the spicy honey glaze until they are fully coated.
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Serve: Transfer the glazed wings to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or green onions if desired.
Cooking Tips for Crispy Wings
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Baking Powder is Key: Baking powder helps to draw moisture away from the skin, resulting in a crispier texture. Ensure you use aluminum-free baking powder for the best results.
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Airflow Matters: Using a wire rack is essential. It allows hot air to circulate around the wings, promoting even cooking and preventing sogginess.
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Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder glaze, reduce the amount of sriracha or substitute it with a milder sauce. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy baked chicken wings with a side of celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. Pair them with a cold beverage, such as a light lager or a refreshing iced tea, to balance the spicy notes.
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free: Make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the glaze for an aromatic twist.
- Sweet Variants: Experiment with different sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar for a unique flavor profile.
Conclusion
This Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Spicy Honey Glaze recipe is not only easy to make but also delivers on flavor and texture. With its irresistible crunch and sweet-spicy glaze, it’s a dish that will undoubtedly impress your family and friends.
For more delicious recipes and cooking tips, consider exploring our other articles on gourmet cooking techniques. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your wing-making adventures with us! Enjoy your culinary journey and keep experimenting in your kitchen.
