Description
These Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings are the ultimate flavor combination! With a perfect balance of honey sweetness and spicy heat, they’re sure to satisfy every craving. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a sticky, finger-licking sauce, these wings are perfect for a game day snack, party appetizer, or just a delicious dinner. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!
Ingredients
For the Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings (drummettes and flats)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 tablespoons sriracha sauce (or your preferred hot sauce)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). If using the oven, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. -
Prepare the Wings:
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to help them crisp up. Place the wings in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat evenly. -
Season the Wings:
In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Sprinkle the seasoning over the wings and toss again to coat the wings evenly. -
Cook the Wings:
- Oven: Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
- Air Fryer: Arrange the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
-
Prepare the Sweet and Spicy Sauce:
While the wings are cooking, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce has thickened. Add the butter and stir until it melts into the sauce, then remove from heat. -
Toss the Wings in Sauce:
Once the wings are cooked, place them in a large bowl and pour the sweet and spicy sauce over them. Toss the wings to coat them evenly in the sauce.
-
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the wings with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch or blue cheese.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of sriracha or hot sauce to make the wings more or less spicy.
- For extra crispy wings, cook them on a wire rack set over the baking sheet to allow air circulation underneath.
- These wings are also great for grilling – cook them on medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, and toss them in the sauce at the end.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes (depending on method)
- Category: Appetizer, Snack, Main Course
- Method: Oven-baked, Air fryer
- Cuisine: American, Asian-inspired