These Honey Garlic Chicken Wings are a tasty treat that everyone loves! They’re sticky, sweet, and have a hint of garlic that makes them hard to resist.
I like to serve these wings at parties, and they disappear fast! They are super easy to make—just bake, toss in the sauce, and enjoy the smiles all around. 🎉
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Use fresh or frozen wings. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them well before cooking. You can also replace wings with drumsticks for a different texture.
Honey: A key ingredient for sweetness! If you’re out, maple syrup can be a tasty alternative. Agave syrup also works, although it’s a bit thinner.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos. These will still give you that delicious umami flavor.
Ketchup: It’s more than just a condiment here! If you prefer, you can use tomato paste or barbecue sauce in place of ketchup for a twist in flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds great flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but you’ll want to use a little less than the fresh amount.
Ginger: While optional, minced fresh ginger adds a nice zing. If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger is a suitable substitute.
Sesame Oil: This adds depth and authenticity. If you can’t find it, you can use vegetable oil, but you’ll miss out on that nutty flavor.
How Do You Ensure Your Wings Are Crispy and Cooked Perfectly?
The texture of your wings really makes a difference, so here are some tips! Whether you’re baking or frying, the goal is to achieve crispy golden skin.
- **Dry the Wings:** After rinsing, it’s important to pat the wings dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps them crisp up.
- **Season Generously:** Salt and pepper aren’t just for flavor—salt helps draw out moisture. Don’t skip this step!
- **Baking vs. Frying:** In the oven, preheat to 425°F (220°C) for the best results. For frying, ensure the oil is hot enough before adding wings to avoid soggy results.
- **Turn Them:** If baking, remember to turn the wings halfway through to help them cook evenly.
- **Thicken Sauce:** Heating the reserved sauce until thickens gives wings a nice sticky coating. Don’t rush this step!
With these tips in mind, your honey garlic chicken wings will come out delicious every time! Enjoy every bite!
How to Make Honey Garlic Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking oil (for frying or baking)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes for marinating. If you want extra flavor, you can marinate the wings for up to 4 hours. Cooking time will vary based on your chosen method—about 40-45 minutes for baking or 16-20 minutes for frying. Total time can range from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 4 hours, depending on marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Wings:
First, rinse the chicken wings under cold water to clean them. Then, use paper towels to pat them dry. Put them in a large bowl and season them with salt and pepper to taste. Make sure all the wings are seasoned evenly.
2. Making the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, ketchup, minced garlic, ginger (if you’re using it), apple cider vinegar, and sesame oil. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed. This sauce is key for that sweet and savory flavor!
3. Marinating the Wings:
Pour half of the delicious sauce over the chicken wings. Keep the other half for later. Toss the wings around in the bowl to make sure they’re all coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the wings marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, you can marinate them for up to 4 hours!
4. Cooking the Wings:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If baking, line a baking tray with parchment paper and spread the wings out on the tray. Bake them for about 40-45 minutes, turning them halfway through for even crispiness. If you’re frying, heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet and cook the wings for about 8-10 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Glazing the Wings:
As your wings are finishing up, take the reserved sauce and put it in a small saucepan. Heat it over medium heat and wait for it to start simmering. Let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. This will make a wonderful glaze!
6. Coating and Serving:
Once the wings are cooked and crispy, take them out of the oven or fryer. Toss the hot wings in the thickened honey garlic sauce until they’re completely coated. Serve them hot and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish. Enjoy your delicious honey garlic chicken wings!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken drumsticks or boneless chicken pieces instead of wings! Just adjust the cooking time; drumsticks may take a bit longer, while boneless pieces will cook more quickly. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked.
How to Make the Sauce Spicier?
If you’d like to add some heat, try incorporating Sriracha, chili paste, or crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce! Start with a teaspoon and adjust to your taste for the perfect spice level.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Longer Than 4 Hours?
While you can marinate the wings for longer than 4 hours, be cautious as the acidity in the marinade can start to break down the meat and affect its texture. For best results, stick to the recommended 30 minutes to 4 hours.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the wings on a baking tray in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help maintain their crispiness!
