
Sweet savory and with a hint of tang these honey soy garlic chicken wings have become my go to for everything from game nights to casual dinners. The sauce clings to every crispy bite creating that perfect sticky finger moment everyone loves. Whether you are feeding a crowd or just craving a comforting plate at home this recipe never disappoints.
I first made these for a potluck and they vanished before I even sat down to eat. Now they are my secret weapon any time friends come over.
Ingredients
- Chicken wings: make sure skin is on and look for plump ones
- Soy sauce: gives signature umami depth opt for good quality for real flavor
- Tamari sauce: adds mild complexity and keeps the wings gluten free if needed
- Honey: adds natural sweetness and helps with that gorgeous caramelized color
- Garlic cloves: minced for punchy savor pick fresh firm cloves
- Lemon: adds a bright note and balances the sweetness use fresh squeezed juice
- Sesame seeds: for gentle crunch and toasty finish
- Spring onion: finely chopped brings a fresh peppery kick to the final garnish pick vibrant green stalks
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit two hundred degrees Celsius and line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a container add the chicken wings soy sauce tamari sauce honey minced garlic and lemon juice Hold back the spring onion for later Seal the container and shake for consistent coating Let the wings sit at room temperature for thirty minutes so the flavors soak in
- Bake the Wings:
- Arrange the marinated wings skin side up on your lined baking tray Spoon any remaining marinade over top Bake for twenty five to thirty five minutes until the wings turn golden brown caramelized and slightly crisp at the edges
- Serve and Garnish:
- Place the baked wings onto your favorite serving plate Sprinkle generously with chopped spring onion and sesame seeds Serve hot and enjoy every sticky tender bite

You Must Know
- High in protein and rich in flavor
- Sticky glaze helps keep wings juicy
- A big hit for parties and family meals
I love using local honey here It makes such a difference in the glaze Sometimes my kids help sprinkle the sesame seeds on and it always turns into a big laugh
Storage Tips
Let leftover wings cool fully before transferring to an airtight container They keep best in the fridge for up to three days To reheat use a hot oven so the skin stays crisp Avoid microwaving if possible since it softens the skin
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have tamari feel free to use more soy sauce or coconut aminos For a spicier kick stir a teaspoon of chili flakes into the marinade If out of honey maple syrup brings a lovely twist
Serving Suggestions
Pile these on a platter and serve with extra lemon wedges or a bowl of steamed jasmine rice They pair wonderfully with crunchy cucumber salad or a crisp cabbage slaw for balance

Cultural Inspiration
Honey soy garlic wings take cues from East Asian kitchens blending classic savory sweet and tangy flavors While not fully traditional they give a nod to the popular techniques and sauces of Japan and Korea where grilled and baked wings are beloved bar snacks
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I achieve extra crispy wings?
Ensure the wings are skin-side up during baking and give them enough space on the tray. Baking at a high temperature helps render the fat and crisp the skin.
- → Can I use only soy sauce instead of tamari?
Yes, you can use just soy sauce if desired; tamari adds depth but is optional in this dish.
- → Is marinating for 30 minutes enough?
Thirty minutes provides solid flavor, but letting the wings marinate longer, up to overnight in the fridge, will enhance the taste.
- → Should I use fresh or bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for a brighter, more vibrant flavor, but bottled lemon juice also works in a pinch.
- → How do I know when the wings are done?
Wings are ready when they’re golden brown, slightly crispy at the edges, and juices run clear when pierced.
- → Can I substitute another sweetener for honey?
Maple syrup or brown sugar can substitute for honey, but honey's floral notes bring a unique touch to the glaze.