There’s something truly magical about a dish that can bring a hush of contentment to a bustling kitchen. For me, that dish is often a plate of perfectly glazed Hot Honey Chicken Wings. I remember one chilly autumn evening, the aroma filling my home as my family gathered, their eyes lighting up the moment I brought out a fresh batch.
My youngest, who usually picks at his dinner, devoured three of these sticky, spicy-sweet wings without a word, only stopping to declare them “the best ever!” That’s the power of these incredible Hot Honey Chicken Wings – they’re not just food; they’re an experience, a memory in the making.
As a food blogger who adores creating comfort food, this recipe holds a special place in my heart. It’s the kind of dish that makes weeknights feel like a celebration and weekend gatherings unforgettable.
Trust me, these aren’t just any wings; they are the ultimate crispy, sticky, and gloriously flavorful Hot Honey Chicken Wings you’ve been dreaming of. Get ready to fall in love with their irresistible charm!
Why You’ll Love These Hot Honey Chicken Wings
You might wonder what makes these Hot Honey Chicken Wings stand out from the countless other wing recipes. The answer lies in their perfect balance and irresistible texture. First, we achieve an incredible crispiness that holds up to the luscious, sticky sauce.
No one wants a soggy wing, right? Then, there’s the flavor: a captivating dance between sweet, golden honey and a fiery kick from your favorite hot sauce. This isn’t just about heat; it’s about a complex, nuanced spice that enhances the natural sweetness of the honey without overwhelming your palate. These aren’t just regular chicken wings; they are an elevated experience.
These Hot Honey Chicken Wings are also surprisingly simple to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or game day feasts. You don’t need fancy equipment or culinary school training to master this recipe. Every bite delivers a symphony of flavors – salty, savory, sweet, and spicy – all perfectly complementing the tender, juicy chicken meat.
It’s truly a dish that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet family dinner, these easy Hot Honey Chicken Wings will become your new go-to. They are utterly addictive, delightfully messy, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Get ready to impress everyone with your culinary skills, all thanks to this fantastic Hot Honey Chicken Wings recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these delightful Hot Honey Chicken Wings requires simple, readily available ingredients. Freshness always makes a difference, so select quality produce and chicken. Here is everything you need for the perfect batch of crispy, saucy Hot Honey Chicken Wings:
For the Chicken Wings:
* 2.5 lbs (approximately 1.1 kg) whole chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats, wing tips discarded
* 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
* 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
* ½ teaspoon black pepper
* ½ teaspoon garlic powder
* ¼ cup all-purpose flour
For the Hot Honey Sauce:
* ½ cup honey
* ¼ cup unsalted butter
* 2-4 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or a similar cayenne-based sauce), adjust to your spice preference
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
* Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
For Garnish (Optional):
* Fresh chives or green onions, thinly sliced
* Sesame seeds
Substitutions & Variations
This Hot Honey Chicken Wings recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste and what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment and make these spicy honey wings truly your own!
* Chicken Cuts: While drumettes and flats work best for classic Hot Honey Chicken Wings, you can certainly use boneless chicken thighs or chicken tenders. Adjust cooking times accordingly; boneless pieces cook faster. For a quicker option, consider using pre-cooked, plain chicken nuggets and tossing them in the hot honey sauce.
* Gluten-Free Option: Easily make these Hot Honey Chicken Wings gluten-free by swapping all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free.
* Spice Level Adjustment: Love serious heat?
Increase the amount of hot sauce to ½ cup or add a dash of ghost pepper hot sauce. For milder Hot Honey Chicken Wings, reduce the hot sauce to 1-2 tablespoons, or use a less intense brand. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a visual and textural pop of heat.
* Sweetness Variation: If you prefer your Hot Honey Chicken Wings sweeter, add an extra tablespoon or two of honey to the sauce. Maple syrup can also be used as a substitute for part of the honey, offering a different depth of flavor.
* Smoked Paprika: Don’t have smoked paprika?
Regular paprika works fine, though you’ll miss the smoky undertones. A tiny pinch of liquid smoke can replicate this, but use sparingly.
* Garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers the best flavor for your hot honey wings.
In a pinch, ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder can be substituted.
* Cooking Methods: This recipe focuses on oven-baked Hot Honey Chicken Wings for maximum crispiness with minimal fuss. However, you can also air fry them (at 375°F/190°C for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway) or deep fry them (at 350°F/175°C for 8-10 minutes) for equally delicious results. Adjust the dry rub to exclude baking powder if deep frying, as it’s primarily for oven crisping.
This Hot Honey Chicken Wings recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your taste and what you have on hand. For an exciting twist, you can also try our Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken by following this recipe guide.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these crispy, delectable Hot Honey Chicken Wings is a straightforward process. Follow these steps carefully for a perfect batch every time.
1. Prepare the Chicken: First, thoroughly pat your separated chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy Hot Honey Chicken Wings, as excess moisture prevents proper browning.
Place the dried wings in a large bowl.
2. Season the Wings: In a small bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Sprinkle this seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken wings. Next, add the all-purpose flour. Toss the wings vigorously until they are completely and evenly coated with the dry rub.
This dry coating is key to developing that incredible crispy skin on your baked Hot Honey Chicken Wings.
3. Arrange for Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, then place an oven-safe wire rack on top. Arrange the seasoned chicken wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring there’s space between each wing for proper air circulation. This setup helps the hot air circulate around the entire wing, promoting maximum crispiness for your Hot Honey Chicken Wings.
4. Bake the Wings: Bake the wings for 45-55 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Continue baking until the wings are deep golden brown and exceptionally crispy.
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Achieving this level of crispness is essential before tossing them in the sauce. These are the foundations of truly irresistible Hot Honey Chicken Wings.
5. Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce: While the wings bake, prepare the irresistible hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, unsalted butter, hot sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of cayenne pepper (if using).
6. Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until the butter is completely melted and all ingredients are well combined.
Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken. Remove from heat. This creates the signature glaze for your Hot Honey Chicken Wings.
7. Toss and Serve: Once the chicken wings are perfectly crispy from the oven, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm hot honey sauce over the wings.
Toss gently but thoroughly until every single Hot Honey Chicken Wing is beautifully coated in the sticky, spicy-sweet glaze.
8. Garnish and Enjoy: Transfer the glazed Hot Honey Chicken Wings to a serving platter.
Garnish with fresh chives, green onions, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately and watch them disappear! These perfectly glazed Hot Honey Chicken Wings are best enjoyed fresh.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving restaurant-quality Hot Honey Chicken Wings at home is easier than you think with a few clever tricks. Follow these pro tips to ensure your wings are always incredibly crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor.
1. Pat Dry, Pat Dry, Pat Dry: This is perhaps the most critical step for crispy wings. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
After separating your chicken wings, pat them *excessively* dry with paper towels. You want them as dry as possible before seasoning. This allows the fat to render properly and the skin to crisp up beautifully, giving you those perfect Hot Honey Chicken Wings.
2. The Baking Powder Secret: Don’t skip the baking powder! Aluminum-free baking powder mixed with your dry rub helps raise the pH level of the chicken skin, breaking down proteins and promoting a crispier exterior.
It works like magic to give your baked Hot Honey Chicken Wings that desired crunch without deep frying.
3. Wire Rack is Your Friend: Always bake your wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
This elevates the wings, allowing hot air to circulate all around them. This prevents the bottoms from getting soggy and ensures even crisping, which is essential for the best Hot Honey Chicken Wings.
4.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Give your wings space! Overcrowding the baking sheet will steam the wings instead of baking them, resulting in a less crispy texture. Work in batches if necessary, or use two baking sheets, ensuring each Hot Honey Chicken Wing has plenty of room.
5. Warm the Sauce: Always toss your crispy wings in warm sauce. A warm sauce will coat the wings more evenly and adhere better than a cold sauce, preventing it from clumping.
This ensures every Hot Honey Chicken Wing is perfectly glazed.
6. Adjust Hot Sauce to Taste: The amount of hot sauce is a personal preference.
Start with the lower amount suggested and taste your hot honey sauce. You can always add more to increase the heat, but you can’t take it away! Find your perfect balance for these spicy honey wings.
7. Serve Immediately: Crispy Hot Honey Chicken Wings are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, tossed in the warm sauce. As they sit, the sauce can soften the skin. Plan your serving time accordingly.
Achieving restaurant-quality Hot Honey Chicken Wings at home is easier than you think with a few clever tricks. For additional breakfast inspiration, check out our Homemade Breakfast Hot Pockets, perfect for any meal of the day here.
Storage & Reheating Tips
While these Hot Honey Chicken Wings are undeniably best enjoyed fresh, you might occasionally have leftovers. Proper storage and reheating ensure they remain delicious and safe to eat.
Storage:
* Refrigerator: Allow any leftover Hot Honey Chicken Wings to cool completely to room temperature (within 2 hours of cooking). Transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Note that the crispiness will diminish once they are stored.
* Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze cooked Hot Honey Chicken Wings. Once cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about an hour until solid.
Then, transfer the frozen wings to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating:
Reheating Hot Honey Chicken Wings without losing too much crispiness is key.
* Oven (Recommended for best crispiness): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover wings in a single layer on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
Reheat for 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through and starting to crisp up again. This method works wonders for bringing back the texture of your Hot Honey Chicken Wings.
* Air Fryer: For an even quicker and crispier reheat, place wings in a single layer in your air fryer basket.
Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until hot and crispy. This is an excellent method for reviving those delicious Hot Honey Chicken Wings.
* Microwave (Least Recommended): While possible, the microwave will make the wings soft and rubbery, and the skin will not re-crisp.
Only use this method if time is extremely limited and crispiness is not a priority. Reheat in short bursts until warm.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Hot Honey Chicken Wings are a bold, flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, balancing their sweet heat and making a complete meal. Here are some of my favorite accompaniments:
* Cooling Dips: A classic choice! Creamy ranch dressing or a tangy blue cheese dip offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy honey wings. The coolness and dairy help to cut through the heat, making each bite more enjoyable.
* Crisp Vegetables: Celery sticks and carrot sticks are traditional for a reason. Their crunch and freshness are perfect alongside the richness of the chicken wings. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also makes a fantastic, healthy pairing.
* Starchy Sides: For a heartier meal, serve your Hot Honey Chicken Wings with sides like crispy french fries, sweet potato fries, or even a side of fluffy white rice to soak up any extra sauce. A creamy mashed potato or mac and cheese can also provide a comforting counterpoint.
* Coleslaw: A vibrant coleslaw, whether creamy or vinegar-based, offers a delightful crunch and a tangy, cool element that cuts through the richness of the Hot Honey Chicken Wings beautifully.
* Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds a touch of sweetness and a fun, summery vibe to your meal.
* Bread: Simple crusty bread or soft dinner rolls are great for soaking up any leftover hot honey sauce from the platter. Don’t let that deliciousness go to waste!
* Beverages: A cold lager or a crisp lemonade are perfect beverages to complement the sweet and spicy flavors of these delicious Hot Honey Chicken Wings.
Hot Honey Chicken Wings are a bold, flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, balancing their sweet heat and making a complete meal. Consider pairing them with our delicious German Chocolate Pecan Pound Cake for a dessert that complements the flavors perfectly here.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making these incredible Hot Honey Chicken Wings, providing you with all the answers you need for a successful culinary adventure!
Can I make these Hot Honey Chicken Wings in an air fryer?
Absolutely! The air fryer is a fantastic tool for achieving super crispy Hot Honey Chicken Wings. Follow the same seasoning steps.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it (cook in batches if necessary). Air fry for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Then, toss them in the hot honey sauce. These air-fried Hot Honey Chicken Wings are incredibly satisfying.
How spicy are these Hot Honey Chicken Wings?
The spice level of these Hot Honey Chicken Wings is completely customizable! With 2-3 tablespoons of hot sauce, they will have a pleasant warmth and a noticeable kick without being overwhelmingly hot for most people. If you prefer a milder wing, start with 1-2 tablespoons.
For those who crave intense heat, increase the hot sauce to 4 tablespoons or more, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You control the fire in these fantastic Hot Honey Chicken Wings.
Can I prepare the Hot Honey Chicken Wings ahead of time?
You can prepare elements of these Hot Honey Chicken Wings in advance. You can trim and season the wings up to 24 hours ahead of time, storing them uncovered in the refrigerator on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (this helps dry out the skin even further for crispiness). You can also make the hot honey sauce a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
Reheat the sauce gently before tossing with freshly baked crispy wings. While you can bake and sauce the wings ahead, they are best served immediately after saucing for optimal crispiness.
What kind of hot sauce is best for Hot Honey Chicken Wings?
For these Hot Honey Chicken Wings, a classic cayenne pepper-based hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot is often preferred because it provides a balanced heat and tanginess without overpowering the honey. Other good options include Cholula or Louisiana-style hot sauces. Feel free to use your favorite hot sauce, but consider its flavor profile – a very vinegar-heavy sauce might make the final product too acidic, while a smoky chipotle sauce could change the overall taste of your Hot Honey Chicken Wings considerably.
Why are my Hot Honey Chicken Wings not crispy?
Several factors can prevent your Hot Honey Chicken Wings from achieving that desired crispiness. The most common reasons include:
1. Not patting the wings dry enough: Excess moisture creates steam, which leads to soggy skin.
2. Overcrowding the baking sheet: This also steams the wings instead of roasting them.
3.
Skipping the baking powder: This ingredient is crucial for breaking down skin proteins.
4. Not baking long enough: Patience is key; ensure they are golden brown and truly crispy before removing them from the oven.
5. Tossing in cold sauce: Warm sauce adheres better without softening the skin as quickly. Following the pro tips will ensure perfectly crispy Hot Honey Chicken Wings every time!
Are these Hot Honey Chicken Wings gluten-free?
As written, this recipe for Hot Honey Chicken Wings is not gluten-free due to the all-purpose flour in the dry rub. However, you can easily make them gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Always ensure your baking powder is also aluminum-free and certified gluten-free. With these simple substitutions, you can enjoy delicious gluten-free Hot Honey Chicken Wings.
Can I use frozen wings for this Hot Honey Chicken Wings recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but you must thaw them completely before preparing. Place the frozen wings in the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Once thawed, pat them extremely dry with paper towels to remove all moisture before seasoning and baking, just as you would with fresh wings. This crucial step ensures your Hot Honey Chicken Wings will be perfectly crispy.
How long do Hot Honey Chicken Wings last in the fridge?
Properly stored Hot Honey Chicken Wings will last for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. While they are still safe to eat, their crispiness will diminish over time. For the best experience, try to enjoy them within a day or two, or reheat them using the oven or air fryer method to help restore some of their texture.
Is it better to bake or fry Hot Honey Chicken Wings?
Both baking and frying can produce excellent Hot Honey Chicken Wings, each with its own advantages. Baking, especially with the baking powder method described, creates incredibly crispy wings with less mess and fat, making it a healthier and easier option for many home cooks. Frying typically delivers the ultimate crispiness and speed but involves more oil and cleanup. For ease and a consistently delicious result at home, baking is often preferred for these fantastic Hot Honey Chicken Wings.
Hot Honey Chicken Wings are a popular dish that showcases a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors, often enjoyed as a party snack or main dish. These wings can be easily prepared at home, allowing fans of bold flavors to indulge in this delicious treat while exploring more about its culinary origins in this article.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Please note that these are approximate nutritional values per serving (based on 3-4 wings), calculated using standard ingredient estimations. Actual values may vary based on specific brands, exact measurements, and cooking methods.
| Nutrient | Amount |
| :—————- | :——– |
| Calories | 350-400 |
| Total Fat | 25-30 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8-10 g |
| Cholesterol | 100-120 mg|
| Sodium | 400-500 mg|
| Total Carbohydrates| 15-20 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0-1 g |
| Total Sugars | 12-15 g |
| Protein | 20-25 g |
Hot Honey Chicken Wings
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free option available
Description
These Hot Honey Chicken Wings are a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors, delivering an incredibly crispy texture with a sticky glaze that is perfect for any gathering. Easy to prepare and absolutely addictive!
Ingredients
2.5 lbs whole chicken wings
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup unsalted butter
2–4 tablespoons hot sauce
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Fresh chives or green onions, for garnish
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the chicken wings dry thoroughly and place in a large bowl
- Combine baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the wings, then add the all-purpose flour. Toss wings until evenly coated
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top and arrange wings in a single layer
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, flipping halfway, until wings are golden brown and crispy. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, unsalted butter, hot sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Heat over medium-low until melted and combined
- Once wings are done, transfer to a large mixing bowl and toss with the warm hot honey sauce until fully coated
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chives or green onions and sesame seeds
Notes
For gluten-free, replace flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 45-55 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 wings
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 23 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg