These sticky BBQ baked chicken wings are everything you want in a finger-licking appetizer or snack. Baked to perfection for a crispy texture and coated in a smoky, sweet BBQ sauce, they’re an irresistible crowd-pleaser. Perfect for game days, parties, or even as a casual dinner option, these wings will disappear off the plate in no time.
Key Information
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Serving size: 5-6 wings
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Fiber: 1 g
Ingredients
For the Chicken Wings:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) chicken wings
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 240 ml (1 cup) BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for extra spice)
Method of Preparation
Step 1: Prep the Chicken Wings
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This will allow the wings to cook evenly and stay crispy.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up in the oven.
- In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until they are well coated.
Step 2: Bake the Chicken Wings
- Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack, making sure they are not overcrowded.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, turning them halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
Step 3: Prepare the BBQ Sauce
- While the wings are baking, prepare the sticky BBQ sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Toss the Wings in BBQ Sauce
- Once the wings are done, remove them from the oven and place them in a large bowl.
- Pour the warm BBQ sauce over the wings and toss them until they are fully coated.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Return the sauced wings to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize slightly.
- Remove from the oven and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing, if desired.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Pat the wings dry: Dry wings ensure maximum crispiness. Don’t skip this step!
- Use a wire rack: Elevating the wings on a rack helps air circulate, ensuring an even bake and crispy skin.
- Homemade BBQ sauce: For extra flavor, make your own BBQ sauce with ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices.
- Double-baking for caramelization: The second bake helps the BBQ sauce adhere and caramelize for sticky, flavorful wings.
- Spicy twist: Add more cayenne or hot sauce to the BBQ glaze if you like a spicy kick.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken wings? Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and baking for best results.
- How can I make the wings extra crispy? Toss the wings in a little baking powder along with the spices before baking. This helps create a crispier texture.
- Can I grill the wings instead of baking them? Absolutely! Grill the wings on medium heat for 20-25 minutes, turning them occasionally until cooked through. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes.
- How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Can I make the sauce spicier? Yes! Add more hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the BBQ sauce for extra heat.
These sticky BBQ baked chicken wings are a game-changer, offering perfect crispiness and finger-licking flavor. Easy to make and hard to resist, they are the ideal dish for any gathering or casual meal. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce and get ready to enjoy some serious flavor!