Honey Garlic Wings Recipe

Takeout-style wings with a homemade twist that’s what you get with these irresistible Honey Garlic Wings! Juicy chicken wings are oven-baked and coated in the stickiest, most flavor-packed honey garlic sauce you’ve ever tasted. Your kitchen fills with mouthwatering aromas and, in less than 40 minutes, these wings are ready to steal the show. Sweet, savory, with a gentle kick of heat, this recipe is tailor-made for busy nights or impromptu gatherings. No deep fryer required just simple ingredients, one skillet, and your appetite for something utterly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these pantry staples no fancy ingredients required. You’ll be surprised by how simple, everyday items come together for spectacular results.

• Chicken Wings: Go for a mix of drumettes and wingettes; these are classic for finger-licking wings. If you find whole wings, just separate at the joints as noted in the recipe.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Olive Oil: Helps to brown and crisp the wings as they cook.
• Honey: The backbone of the sauce provides that signature sweetness and glossy finish.
• Garlic: Lots of freshly minced garlic infuses every wing with aromatic depth.
• Coconut Aminos: Adds a gentle, soy-like savoriness. If you’re not avoiding soy, a low-sodium soy sauce works too.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Brings brightness and tang, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but highly recommended for a gentle heat that doesn’t overpower.
• Arrowroot Powder: Thickens the sauce to that perfect, sticky consistency. Cornstarch can be used if that’s what you have on hand.
• Water: Combines with the thickener to finish the sauce.

Tip: The secret to really great wings? Dry them well before cooking for maximum crispiness!

Variations

Wing recipes are endlessly adaptable! Here are some easy ways to make them your own:

• Swap the Sweetener: Maple syrup or agave nectar work if you’re out of honey.
• Go Soy: If you don’t have coconut aminos, low-sodium soy sauce will bring a similar zing.
• Add Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lime or orange juice in the sauce brightens the flavors.
• Herby Twist: Sprinkle on chopped cilantro or parsley after baking for a pop of freshness.
• Change the Protein: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or even tofu can be tossed in this sauce for a variation.

How to Make Honey Garlic Wings

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

If using whole wings, cut at the joints to separate drumettes and wingettes. Pat every piece dry with paper towels don’t skip this, it makes a difference in texture! Season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Brown the Wings

Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add wings and brown them on all sides, giving them about 10 minutes total. This step helps lock in the juices and forms that golden crust.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

While the wings brown, whisk together honey, minced garlic, coconut aminos, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.

Step 4: Bake

Pour the honey garlic sauce over the browned wings, tossing to coat. Transfer skillet to a preheated 400°F oven. Bake for 15 minutes, then stir the wings and sauce again for maximum coverage. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes just until the wings are cooked through and the sauce bubbles.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Remove the wings and set aside. Mix the arrowroot powder and water together, then add to the pan sauce over medium-high heat. Whisk until the sauce thickens to a luscious, sticky glaze.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Return the wings to the skillet and toss thoroughly in the thickened sauce. Plate your wings, drizzle over any extra sauce, and sprinkle with more red pepper flakes if you like a bit more heat.

How to Serve

Honey Garlic Wings are best enjoyed hot and sticky straight from the oven. Pair them up with cool, crunchy celery and carrot sticks to cut through the sweetness and add freshness. If you love a creamy dip, set out some blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping classic, and so satisfying.

These wings also pair beautifully with simple salads, steamed rice, or roasted potatoes if you want a more substantial meal. For a game day spread, add chips, guacamole, and your favorite cold drinks.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as they sit!

Freezing

Honey Garlic Wings freeze well. Arrange wings on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. Store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven until hot and the glaze is bubbly again—about 10 minutes. The oven keeps the skin crisp, but a quick zap in the microwave also works if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

These Honey Garlic Wings prove that homemade comfort food can be both easy and impressive. With a perfectly balanced glaze and just the right amount of kick, they’re sure to win over everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate dive into this recipe, have fun with the flavors, and let these wings turn any busy weeknight into something worth savoring.

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