Ingredients
- For the Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- For the Sweet and Spicy Glaze:
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup hot sauce (choose your favorite brand for desired heat)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Optional Garnishes:
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Wings: Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the wings with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
- Cook the Wings:
- Baking Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Frying Method: Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry the wings in batches for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Sweet and Spicy Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine honey, brown sugar, hot sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and cayenne pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture starts to bubble and thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Toss the Wings in the Glaze: Transfer the cooked wings to a large mixing bowl. Pour the sweet and spicy glaze over the wings and toss them until evenly coated.
- Serve: Garnish the wings with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and chopped fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Spicy: For extra heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or use a hotter hot sauce.
- Milder: Reduce the amount of hot sauce or use a mild variety for a less spicy option.
- Sweetness Adjustments: Adjust the honey and brown sugar ratio to your preferred level of sweetness.
- Crispy Option: Double coat the wings by dipping them in the glaze and then baking them for an additional 5-10 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking/Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg