Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings

 Sweet and spicy chicken wings are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a game day party, a casual get-together, or just craving something delicious at home.

We’ll show you how to make the most flavorful wings with just the right balance of heat and sweetness.

Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings

To make these irresistible wings, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Wings:

• 2 pounds of 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

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Wings:

• Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps achieve crispy skin.
• In a large bowl, toss the wings with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to coat evenly.

2. 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 halfway through, until the wings 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 and cooked through.
• Remove and drain on paper towels.

3. 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 slightly thickens (about 3-5 minutes).

4. 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 until they are evenly coated.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken Wings

• Crispy Skin: For baked wings, use a wire rack to allow air to circulate and prevent sogginess.
• Balancing Flavors: Adjust the amount of honey or hot sauce to suit your taste preference.
• Choosing the Right Hot Sauce: For milder heat, opt for a sweet chili sauce. For spicier wings, try sriracha or a habanero-based hot sauce.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Whether baking or frying, ensure the wings are spaced out for even cooking.