Finger-Licking Honey-Glazed Chicken Wings Recipe: The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Spicy

If you’re looking for the perfect appetizer or game-day snack that combines sweet, savory, and just the right hint of spice, this Honey-Glazed Chicken Wings recipe is exactly what you need! These wings are sticky, crispy, and packed with flavor, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The caramelized honey glaze gives them that deliciously addictive taste that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I first stumbled upon this recipe on Insanely Good Recipes, and I knew right away that I had to try it. Let me tell you—it was love at first bite! Now, I’m excited to share this with you because these wings are guaranteed to become a favorite in your household, just like they did in mine.

A Little Backstory on Honey-Glazed Chicken Wings

Wings have long been a staple in American comfort food, whether they’re served spicy, tangy, or sweet. But honey-glazed chicken wings take it to another level with their perfect balance of flavors—sweet from the honey, umami from the soy sauce, and just a touch of heat from the cayenne. It's a dish that blends the best of Southern and Asian-inspired cuisine, making it a versatile choice for many occasions.

A Fun Fact

Did you know that honey has been used in cooking for thousands of years? Ancient Egyptians used honey not only as a sweetener but also for its preservation qualities. Now, it’s a beloved ingredient in many sweet and savory dishes around the world, adding depth and richness to sauces like the one we’re using here.

How to Make These Sweet and Spicy Wings

The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to make, so even if you’re not an expert in the kitchen, you’ll feel confident pulling off this dish. Plus, the smell of these wings baking in the oven is pure heaven. Your family will be rushing to the kitchen to get a taste!

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 3 pounds chicken wings (cut into wingettes and drumettes)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup honey
• ½ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray the rack with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Prepare the wings by patting them dry with paper towels. This helps them get extra crispy in the oven. Season the wings with salt and pepper, then arrange them in a single layer on the prepared wire rack.
3. Make the honey glaze by whisking together honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, ketchup, minced garlic, and cayenne pepper in a medium bowl until smooth and well combined.
4. Brush the wings with about 1/3 of the honey glaze, making sure they’re evenly coated. Bake the wings for 25 minutes.
5. Brush with more glaze—after 25 minutes, remove the wings from the oven and brush with another 1/3 of the glaze. Flip the wings and brush the other side with the remaining glaze.
6. Finish baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the wings are fully cooked and the glaze has caramelized into a sticky, golden coating.
7. Cool slightly before serving. Let the wings rest for 5 minutes so the glaze can thicken up even more. Then, dig in!

Pro Tips:

• For crispier wings, make sure to pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning and baking. You can also turn on the broiler for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking to get an extra crispy skin.
• Add a garnish: Try sprinkling some sesame seeds or fresh chopped cilantro over the top before serving for added texture and freshness.
• Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or even a spicy Sriracha mayo for an extra flavor kick.

Recipe Variations:

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative like tamari.
• Spicy Honey Wings: If you like more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of hot sauce to the glaze.
• Low-Sugar Version: Use less honey or substitute with a sugar-free honey alternative.

Side Dishes and Pairings

These honey-glazed chicken wings pair beautifully with a variety of sides! Try serving them with a fresh cucumber salad, sweet potato fries, or even a classic coleslaw to balance out the sweetness of the wings. For drinks, an ice-cold beer or sparkling lemonade would be perfect to wash down these finger-licking-good wings.

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