Honey Garlic Chicken Wings

 The Ultimate Honey Garlic Chicken Wings Recipe

There's nothing quite like crispy chicken wings coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory honey garlic sauce. These wings are perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or whenever you crave a flavor-packed dish. With a balance of rich garlic, sweet honey, and a touch of heat, these wings are sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Wings:

30 chicken wings – Perfect for a party-sized serving; adjust portions as needed.

2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps the seasoning stick and crisps the skin.

1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and draws out moisture for crispier wings.

1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle heat.

1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Provides a rich, smoky depth to the wings.

1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds bold garlic flavor right from the start.

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

1/4 cup soy sauce – Brings savory umami depth.

2 tablespoons mirin – Adds a mild sweetness and balances the sauce.

1/2 cup honey – Creates that signature sticky sweetness.

3/4 cup water – Thins the sauce for proper consistency.

1 tablespoon sesame oil – Provides rich, nutty flavor.

4 garlic cloves, minced – The star of the sauce, offering aromatic richness.

1 tablespoon minced ginger – Brings warmth and complexity.

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a hint of spice for those who enjoy heat.

1 tablespoon cornstarch – Ensures the sauce thickens to a glossy finish.

Sesame seeds – For a flavorful and visually appealing garnish.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Wings

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Pat the wings dry using paper towels until completely dry. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.

3. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Toss the wings in this seasoning mix until they are well-coated.

4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, then place parchment paper on top for easy cleanup. Arrange the wings in a single layer; if necessary, use two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.

5. Bake for 35 minutes, flipping the wings after 20 minutes to ensure even crispiness.

Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

1. While the wings bake, combine the soy sauce, mirin, honey, water, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes in a small skillet over medium heat.

2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

3. In a separate bowl, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the sauce to help thicken it further. Continue simmering until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 3: Coat the Wings

1. Remove the wings from the oven and toss them in the prepared honey garlic sauce.

2. Return the wings to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through for an even glaze.

3. Once done, let the wings rest for about 10 minutes. As the sauce cools, it will thicken and beautifully coat the wings.

4. Toss the wings every few minutes during cooling to ensure they're evenly coated.

Pro Tips for Perfect Wings

For extra crispy wings, place them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after the final glaze for a delicious charred effect.

Drying the wings thoroughly before seasoning is key to achieving crispy skin.

Want even more flavor? Marinate the wings in the spice mix for a few hours before baking.

Serving Suggestions

These honey garlic wings pair wonderfully with:

Steamed white rice or fried rice

A crisp Asian-inspired slaw

Celery sticks and ranch dressing for a classic pairing

Conclusion

This Honey Garlic Chicken Wings recipe offers the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and sticky goodness that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving comfort food, these wings are guaranteed to satisfy. With simple ingredients and clear steps, you'll achieve restaurant-quality wings right in your kitchen. Try them today and watch them disappear from the plate in no time!

That recipe sounds like a winner! Are you thinking of adding any sides or maybe a dipping sauce for those wings?