Baked Sticky Honey Garlic Buffalo Wings

If you’re a fan of finger-licking good chicken wings, then you are in for a treat! These Baked Sticky Honey Garlic Buffalo Wings are the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, making them an irresistible addition to your next party, game day, or cozy night in. With a crispy exterior and a sticky glaze, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, they’re baked, so you can enjoy them guilt-free. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There are countless reasons to add these Baked Sticky Honey Garlic Buffalo Wings to your go-to recipe list. Firstly, they are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. The combination of honey, garlic, and buffalo sauce creates a tantalizing glaze that clings to each wing, making every bite a burst of flavor. Additionally, baking them instead of frying not only makes for a healthier option, but it also allows you to whip up a batch without the hassle of dealing with hot oil splatters. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, these wings will impress everyone around the table.

What’s in the Bowl

To create these mouthwatering Baked Sticky Honey Garlic Buffalo Wings, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 pounds chicken party wings, patted dry with a paper towel – The star of the show! Choose fresh wings for the best texture.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder – This is the secret to achieving that crispy skin.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the wings perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning the wings.
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper – For a little kick and depth of flavor.
• 1 cup buffalo sauce – The classic spicy element that gives wings their signature taste.
• ½ cup honey – Sweetness balances the heat of the buffalo sauce.
• ½ cup packed brown sugar – Enhances the sticky texture and adds a rich sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds complexity and umami to the glaze.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – This helps thicken the sauce and coat the wings perfectly.

Recommended Tools

To make your cooking experience as smooth as possible, here are some recommended tools:

• Baking sheet – A sturdy sheet for baking the wings evenly.
• Cooling rack – This allows air to circulate around the wings for even crispiness.
• Mixing bowls – For mixing the ingredients and sauces.
• Whisk – To blend the sauce ingredients thoroughly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements ensure perfect results.

From Start to Finish: Baked Sticky Honey Garlic Buffalo Wings

Creating these Baked Sticky Honey Garlic Buffalo Wings is straightforward. Follow these steps for a delicious outcome:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that crispy skin.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Wings

In a large bowl, combine the baking powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken wings in this mixture until they are well coated. Make sure each wing is patted dry beforehand to ensure maximum crispiness.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a cooling rack on top. Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the rack, ensuring they are not touching. This allows the hot air to circulate around the wings, making them crispy.

Step 4: Bake the Wings

Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You want them to be golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Prepare the Sticky Sauce

While the wings are baking, prepare the sticky honey garlic sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the buffalo sauce, honey, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and cornstarch. Whisk together over medium heat until it comes to a simmer and thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 6: Coat the Wings

Once the wings are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the sticky sauce over the wings and toss until they are evenly coated.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Baked Sticky Honey Garlic Buffalo Wings immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!

In-Season Flavor Ideas

To elevate your Baked Sticky Honey Garlic Buffalo Wings, consider incorporating these seasonal flavors:

• Fresh herbs: Add chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh touch.
• Citrus zest: A sprinkle of lime or lemon zest enhances the flavor profile.
• Roasted garlic: For a deeper garlic flavor, roast a head of garlic and mix it into the sauce.
• Spicy variations: Experiment with different hot sauces or add cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Pro Perspective

When it comes to wings, the key to achieving crispy skin lies in the drying process. Patting the wings dry removes excess moisture, which is crucial for that desired crunch. Also, don’t skip the baking powder—it’s a game changer for crispy wings without frying. If you’re looking to meal prep, these wings are great for making ahead of time. Just bake them and then toss them in the sauce when ready to serve. Enjoy them straight from the oven or refrigerate them for a quick snack later!

Shelf Life & Storage

To store your Baked Sticky Honey Garlic Buffalo Wings, follow these guidelines:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you want to keep them longer, freeze the wings before coating in sauce. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Reader Q&A

Can I use frozen wings for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen wings, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and baking.

What can I substitute for buffalo sauce?

If you prefer a milder sauce, you can use BBQ sauce or a combination of hot sauce and ketchup for a different flavor profile.

Is there a way to make these wings spicier?

Absolutely! You can add cayenne pepper to the dry seasoning or mix in some extra hot sauce into the sticky glaze for more heat.

Can I grill these wings instead of baking?

Yes, these wings can also be grilled! Just make sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning and brush them with the sauce towards the end of cooking for a sticky finish.

Enhance your wing experience by pairing them with these delicious sides:

Final Thoughts

These Baked Sticky Honey Garlic Buffalo Wings are sure to be a hit at any gathering, combining the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors with a satisfying crunch. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, they are ideal for parties, game days, or a cozy night in. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a plateful of wing perfection. Your taste buds will thank you!