Deliciously Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Spicy Honey Mustard Glaze
If you’re in search of the perfect appetizer that satisfies everyone’s cravings, look no further. These Deliciously Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Spicy Honey Mustard Glaze are not only easy to make but also pack a flavor punch that will keep your guests coming back for more. The crispy skin combined with a sweet and tangy glaze creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Wings:
- 2 pounds of chicken wings
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Spicy Honey Mustard Glaze:
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust based on your heat preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Chicken Wings
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that crispy texture.
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Prep the Wings: Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for crispiness.
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Coating the Wings: In a large bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Toss the wings in the mixture until they are evenly coated. The baking powder aids in drying the skin, which enhances the crispiness after baking.
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Arrange for Baking: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the rack, ensuring they are not touching. This allows air circulation for even cooking.
Baking the Chicken Wings
- Bake: Place the wings in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Flip the wings halfway through to ensure even crispiness on both sides. You want them golden brown and crispy.
Making the Spicy Honey Mustard Glaze
- Prepare the Glaze: While the wings are baking, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more hot sauce for extra heat or more honey for sweetness.
Glazing the Wings
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Combine: Once the wings are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. In a large bowl, toss the wings with the spicy honey mustard glaze until they are well coated.
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Final Bake (Optional): For an extra sticky glaze, return the wings to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes. This will caramelize the glaze slightly, making it even more delicious.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Wings
- Choosing Wings: Look for fresh or thawed chicken wings without added preservatives. Organic or free-range options can enhance flavor and quality.
- Baking Powder: Ensure you use aluminum-free baking powder for a cleaner taste.
- Crispiness: For extra crispy wings, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these wings with a side of celery sticks and your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Variations and Substitutions
- Glaze Variations: Try experimenting with different mustards such as whole grain or spicy brown for a unique twist.
- Heat Level: Adjust the hot sauce in the glaze according to your preference. You can also add cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Dietary Alternatives: For a gluten-free option, ensure all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
Perfect Pairings
These wings pair excellently with a crisp lager or a zesty IPA. Alternatively, serve them alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or coleslaw to balance the heat.
Enhance Your Cooking Experience
Consider exploring other chicken recipes like Buffalo Chicken Dip or Crispy Fried Chicken to diversify your culinary repertoire.
Final Thoughts
These Deliciously Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Spicy Honey Mustard Glaze are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. With their crispy exterior and flavorful glaze, they embody the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Don’t hesitate to share your culinary creations and inspire others to try this recipe. Happy cooking!
