These Finger-Licking Honey BBQ Wings hit the mark with their gooey sweetness and rich flavor depth. Honey and BBQ sauce mix to form an addictive coating that wraps each wing in a shiny layer, while smart baking techniques keep the skin crisp and the meat tender. This crowd-favorite turns basic items into something you'll crave again and again.
I've tried so many wing recipes, and I finally found the key in how you add the glaze. The first batch where I got that sticky coating just right, I knew these would be my go-to for every game day.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
Wings: Pick fresh ones, already split into drums and flats
Honey: Go for raw, nearby-sourced for better taste
BBQ Sauce: The foundation needs to be good quality
Apple Cider Vinegar: Gives tang and balances sweetness
Soy Sauce: Adds rich, savory undertones
Spices: Thoughtfully mixed for extra flavor layers
Mastering Wing Excellence
Get Wings Ready
Dry them completely for maximum crispness.
Blend The Sauce
Mix everything with care for ideal taste balance.
Ensure Even Cooking
Use a raised rack for air circulation.
Apply Sauce Strategically
Add coatings in stages for better sticking.
Final Touch
Quick broil for that caramelized finish.
PinSticky-Sweet Honey BBQ Wings | chefemmakitchen.com
The best advice I got was 'don't mess with the wings too much' - turns out less handling during the cooking process really does make them better.
Perfect Pairings
Dish these up with fresh celery and carrot sticks, some creamy ranch or blue cheese dip, and ice-cold drinks. For bigger gatherings, just keep them warm in your oven on low heat.
Tasty Twists
Switch things up by mixing in sriracha for some kick, adding some garlic butter elements, or going with an Asian flavor profile using ginger and sesame.
Keeping Leftovers
Pop any extras in a sealed container and they'll last up to three days. Heat them back up in a hot oven to bring back the crunch.
After making batch after batch in my kitchen, I've learned that taking your time and watching the details really matters. These wings show how good technique meets amazing flavor to create something that brings everyone to the table.
PinIrresistible Honey BBQ Wings | chefemmakitchen.com
Recipe Questions & Answers
→ Can I prep these wings in advance?
Absolutely! Bake the wings and prepare the glaze up to a day early. Pop them in a 350°F oven to reheat for 10-15 minutes.
→ How can I tell if the wings are fully cooked?
They’re ready when they hit 165°F inside and the skin is nice and crispy – usually takes 40-45 minutes of baking.
→ Which BBQ sauce works best?
Any favorite BBQ sauce will do. Try Sweet Baby Ray’s or Stubbs for excellent results with honey!
→ Can I use an air fryer for these wings?
Totally! Cook at 380°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, and brush with sauce during the last 5 minutes.
→ Why aren’t my wings getting crispy?
Dry the wings really well before seasoning. Using a wire rack helps hot air circulate and crisps them up while baking.
Sweet Sticky BBQ Wings
Golden chicken wings baked and slathered in a sticky-sweet BBQ glaze – great for game nights or family fun.
012 lbs of chicken wings, thoroughly dried with paper towels
02Freshly cracked black pepper and a generous pinch of salt, as needed
→ Sticky and Sweet Sauce
031/2 cup of golden, silky honey
041/2 cup of your go-to barbecue sauce
052 tablespoons soy sauce for a touch of umami
062 tablespoons tangy apple cider vinegar
071 teaspoon garlic powder for extra flavor
081 teaspoon onion powder
091/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of smoky depth
101/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, if you like a kick)
→ For Finishing
11Chopped fresh parsley to sprinkle on top
Steps to Follow
Step 01
Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cover a large baking tray with foil, then put a wire rack on top. This helps the wings come out super crispy!
Step 02
Use paper towels to dry the wings really well—crispy ones need less moisture. Sprinkle them with plenty of salt and black pepper for a good base flavor.
Step 03
In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne. Keep stirring until everything’s combined into one rich, glossy mix.
Step 04
Dump the wings in a big bowl, then pour that lovely glaze over them. Toss everything around to coat every single piece evenly.
Step 05
Place the saucy wings on the rack you prepared. Make sure they’re spread out, so they don’t stick together. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping them over halfway through, until they’re perfectly caramelized and golden.
Step 06
Brush a light layer of BBQ sauce over the wings during the last 5 minutes of baking. Want them even crispier? Broil them for 2-3 minutes, but watch closely so they don't burn!
Step 07
Let the wings rest for a few minutes so you don’t burn your mouth. Sprinkle parsley on top and serve with extra sauce on the side for dipping. Dig in!
Additional Notes
They're the perfect crowd-pleaser and always the first plate to get cleaned off at gatherings.
Drying the wings completely is the key to making them crispy.
Tools You'll Need
Baking sheet, big enough for all the wings
Wire rack to keep things crispy
Foil to keep the cleanup easy
Big bowl for tossing wings in sauce
Paper towels to dry the wings
Whisk for mixing up the sauce
Brush for adding a nice coat of extra sauce
Allergy Information
Check every ingredient for potential allergens. Consult a healthcare professional for concerns.
Soy (soy sauce is the culprit)
Nutrition Info (Per Serving)
These details are for informational purposes and don’t replace medical advice.
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