Name: Hot Honey Chicken Wings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds chicken wing portions; 2 tablespoons kosher salt (divided); 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; ½ cup hot honey; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 1 bunch sliced green onion or chopped parsley (for garnish)

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Hot Honey Chicken Wings are the ultimate game-day treat! Every time I make these crispy, sweet, and spicy wings, I’m transported to a lively gathering where laughter and the aroma of delicious food fill the air. I remember the first time I introduced Hot Honey Chicken Wings to my friends during a football game. As they devoured them, the sticky sweetness combined with a hint of heat had everyone asking for seconds. It’s not just about the flavor; it’s about togetherness, excitement, and sharing something special around the table. These wings have become a staple in my cooking repertoire, and I’m excited to share the joy they bring. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want them at every gathering!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
24 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
28 g

Tools Used:
Large Pot, Baking Sheet, Whisk, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon

What You’ll Enjoy About This Hot Honey Chicken Wings

Irresistible Flavor Combination

One of the key reasons I adore Hot Honey Chicken Wings is the remarkable balance of flavors. The sweet heat from the hot honey pairs perfectly with the savory, crispy chicken. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste that keeps you coming back for more!

Crispy Texture

When cooked correctly, these wings achieve the perfect level of crispiness. The method of par-boiling before baking ensures that the skin crisps up beautifully in the oven. It’s the kind of crunch that makes you want to savor each piece.

Easy to Make

If you think delicious wings are a restaurant-only treat, think again! Making Hot Honey Chicken Wings at home is straightforward and requires just a few steps. You’ll impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These wings are incredibly versatile! Whether it’s a casual family dinner, game day, or a festive gathering, Hot Honey Chicken Wings fit right in. They can be served as an appetizer or as the main event, making them a crowd-pleaser.

Customizable to Your Taste

Another reason to love these wings is their adaptability. You can adjust the level of heat based on your preference by varying the amount of hot honey or adding your favorite spices. It’s a recipe you can truly make your own!

Leftover Magic

Let’s be honest—after making Hot Honey Chicken Wings, you might have leftovers. But trust me, these wings taste amazing even the next day! Heat them up in the oven, and they’ll retain their crispy texture.

Everything You Need for Hot Honey Chicken Wings

Creating the perfect Hot Honey Chicken Wings starts with quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that unforgettable flavor and texture you crave. The key players include fresh chicken wings, rich butter, and, of course, the star of the show, hot honey. Together, they create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly delicious.

3 pounds chicken wing portions: The foundation of our dish, these wings provide the meaty goodness that everyone loves.
2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning, it enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to balance the sweetness.
6 tablespoons unsalted butter: This gives our sauce a rich, creamy texture that clings to the wings.
½ cup hot honey: The star ingredient, it brings a sweet and spicy flavor that’s absolutely addictive.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: For an extra layer of flavor, garlic powder is a must-have.
Sliced green onion or chopped parsley: These are perfect for garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

How to Assemble Hot Honey Chicken Wings

Making Hot Honey Chicken Wings is a fun and rewarding process! Get ready to enjoy a crispy, flavorful treat that will be the highlight of your meal. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your wings come out perfect every time.

Preheat your oven to 450° F and lightly spray a large rimmed baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray. For easy clean-up, line the baking sheet with heavy-duty foil and spray with cooking spray again.
Prepare another baking sheet lined with paper towels for the chicken wings. This will help drain excess moisture after boiling, contributing to that perfect crispiness.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Once the water is rapidly boiling, add 2 tablespoons of kosher salt and stir to mix well.
Add the chicken wings to the pot and cook for exactly 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial for ensuring the wings are tender and juicy.
Once the wings are done, carefully remove them and place them on the paper towel-lined baking sheet. Allow them to cool slightly for easier handling.
Using more paper towels, squeeze the wings to ensure they’re completely dry. Removing moisture is key to achieving super crispy wings!
Arrange the dried wings on your prepared baking sheet, then sprinkle both sides with the remaining 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and black pepper. Turn the wings skin-side down and bake for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, flip the wings so they’re skin-side up and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
For extra crispy wings, position them about 6 inches away from the broiler and broil on high heat for 5 to 8 minutes. Watch closely until the skin is bubbling, golden brown, and crispy!
While the wings are broiling, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, ½ cup of hot honey, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until smooth and combined, then set aside.
Once the wings are crisp and golden, transfer them to a large bowl. Toss the wings with the warmed honey butter sauce. I typically use half of the sauce for tossing and reserve the rest for dipping.
Garnish with sliced green onions or chopped parsley and serve immediately for the crispiest experience!

Things Worth Knowing

Par-boiling is key: This step ensures the wings remain juicy while allowing the skin to get crispy in the oven.
Watch the broiler: When broiling, keep a close eye on the wings to prevent them from burning. They can reach the perfect crisp in just a few minutes!
Adjust the heat: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of hot honey or select a milder variety.
Garnish wisely: Fresh herbs like green onions or parsley bring a nice touch of color and flavor to your wings.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

As you embark on your journey to make Hot Honey Chicken Wings, consider these helpful tips to elevate your dish even further!

Storage: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked wings for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before placing them in a freezer bag.
Pairing: Serve these wings with a side of crunchy celery sticks or creamy ranch dressing for dipping.
Spice it up: Experiment with different hot honeys or even add a splash of hot sauce to the butter for an extra kick.
Meal Prep: Consider making a double batch for parties or gatherings—these wings are sure to be a hit!

Perfect Pairings for Hot Honey Chicken Wings

When serving Hot Honey Chicken Wings, the right accompaniments can enhance the experience. Here are some fantastic ideas:

Cool Salads: A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the wings’ richness.
Starchy Sides: Consider fluffy mashed potatoes or crispy fries, which pair nicely with the sticky sauce.
Vegetable Dishes: Roasted or grilled vegetables add color and a healthy component to your meal.
Appetizers: Start your gathering with light appetizers like bruschetta or a charcuterie board to balance the heavier wings.
Seasonal Occasions: These wings are perfect for game days or casual gatherings, making them a versatile choice throughout the year!
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, keep them in a sealed container and enjoy them the next day for a quick meal!

FAQ

The secret to crispy wings lies in the preparation method. By par-boiling the wings before baking, you remove excess moisture, which is key to achieving that perfect crunch. After par-boiling, make sure to dry the wings thoroughly before seasoning and baking. This technique ensures that the skin crisps up beautifully in the oven. Additionally, broiling the wings at the end adds an extra layer of crispiness. Keep a close watch during this step to prevent burning!

Absolutely! You can prepare Hot Honey Chicken Wings ahead of time. They can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in the oven to regain their crispy texture. Alternatively, you can freeze the cooked wings for up to three months. Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer bag. This makes them a perfect option for meal prep or parties!

When it comes to serving Hot Honey Chicken Wings, the options are endless! They pair wonderfully with fresh salads, crunchy vegetable sticks, or classic sides like coleslaw or potato wedges. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese. The contrast between the sweet, spicy wings and refreshing sides makes for a delightful dining experience, perfect for game days or gatherings!

The spice level of Hot Honey Chicken Wings can be adjusted to your liking! The primary source of heat comes from the hot honey used in the recipe. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of hot honey or opt for a less spicy version. Conversely, if you love a good kick, feel free to add a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the honey butter mixture for an extra zing. It’s all about balancing the sweet and spicy to suit your taste!

Conclusion

In summary, Hot Honey Chicken Wings truly stand out with their perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors, making them a go-to dish for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try! You’ll not only impress your guests but also enjoy a delightful treat that brings everyone together. So, gather your ingredients and get ready for a flavorful experience that you won’t forget!

Hot Honey Chicken Wings

Craving something crispy and sweet? Look no further than these Hot Honey Chicken Wings. The perfect mix of savory and spicy makes them an ideal choice for your next gathering. With their irresistible flavor and crunchy texture, they’re sure to be the highlight of your meal. Make them tonight and impress your friends!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

3 pounds chicken wing portions
2 tablespoons kosher salt divided
1 teaspoon kosher salt divided
½ teaspoon black pepper
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ cup hot honey
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 bunch sliced green onion or chopped parsley for garnish

Equipment

Large Pot
Baking Sheet
Whisk
Oven
Chef's Knife
Frying pan
Wooden Spoon

Method

Preheat your oven to 450° F and lightly spray a large rimmed baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray. For easy clean-up, line the baking sheet with heavy-duty foil and spray with cooking spray again.
Prepare another baking sheet lined with paper towels for the chicken wings. This will help drain excess moisture after boiling, contributing to that perfect crispiness.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Once the water is rapidly boiling, add 2 tablespoons of kosher salt and stir to mix well.
Add the chicken wings to the pot and cook for exactly 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial for ensuring the wings are tender and juicy.
Once the wings are done, carefully remove them and place them on the paper towel-lined baking sheet. Allow them to cool slightly for easier handling.
Using more paper towels, squeeze the wings to ensure they’re completely dry. Removing moisture is key to achieving super crispy wings!
Arrange the dried wings on your prepared baking sheet, then sprinkle both sides with the remaining 1 teaspoon of kosher salt and black pepper. Turn the wings skin-side down and bake for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, flip the wings so they’re skin-side up and bake for an additional 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn.
For extra crispy wings, position them about 6 inches away from the broiler and broil on high heat for 5 to 8 minutes. Watch closely until the skin is bubbling, golden brown, and crispy!
While the wings are broiling, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, ½ cup of hot honey, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until smooth and combined, then set aside.
Once the wings are crisp and golden, transfer them to a large bowl. Toss the wings with the warmed honey butter sauce. I typically use half of the sauce for tossing and reserve the rest for dipping.
Garnish with sliced green onions or chopped parsley and serve immediately for the crispiest experience!

Notes

Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results. You can freeze cooked wings for up to 3 months. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before placing them in a freezer bag. Serve these wings with a side of crunchy celery sticks or creamy ranch dressing for dipping. Experiment with different hot honeys or even add a splash of hot sauce to the butter for an extra kick. Consider making a double batch for parties or gatherings—these wings are sure to be a hit!