Hot Honey Chicken Wings

These easy-to-make Hot Honey Chicken Wings are perfect for game day or any occasion that calls for bold, mouthwatering flavor.

Hot Honey Chicken Wings are the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. This is one recipe that always gets me rave reviews on game night or our monthly barbecues in the summer.

These wings are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a sticky hot honey glaze that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a game day classic, or just craving a delicious snack, these wings are always a hit.

Bring some paper towels to the table. You can’t help but get a little messy when you’re gobbling down these wings. The golden brown color and the rich, spicy honey sauce make them as gorgeous as they are tasty to eat.

These Hot Honey Chicken Wings are a fantastic dish that combines the best of sweet and spicy flavors. Whether you’re baking or frying, these wings are easy to make and always come out delicious.

Perfect for game days, parties, or just a fun family dinner, they’re sure to be a favorite. With simple ingredients and a bit of time, you can create these amazing wings that everyone will love.

Common Questions About Hot Honey Chicken Wings

Can I Bake These Wings Instead of Frying Them?

Yes, you can! Baking the wings is a great option if you want a healthier alternative.

Simply season the wings, place them on a wire rack on a baking sheet, and bake them at 400°F for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll come out crispy and delicious.

How Do I Get the Wings Extra Crispy?

To get those extra crispy wings, make sure to pat the wings dry with a paper towel before seasoning them. For baking, you can also add a little baking powder to the seasoning mix. This helps to create a crispy texture in the oven.

Can I Make the Sauce Less Spicy?

If you prefer a milder sauce, you can reduce the amount of hot sauce and add more honey to balance the heat. You can also omit the cayenne pepper if using the optional seasoning rub.

Storage

I like to reheat my party wings in the air fryer personally. That way they get back to being nice and crispy again.

Refrigerator

Place the cooled wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to reheat.

Freezer

To freeze, place the cooled wings on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips

Always be safe when cooking oil at high temperatures. The last thing you want is to have an accident in the kitchen.

• Pat Dry: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to ensure they get crispy when cooked.
• Season Well: Use a generous amount of seasoning mix for the best flavor.
• Use a Wire Rack: For baking, place the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air to circulate and make them crispy.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: If frying, maintain the oil at 375°F for perfectly fried wings.
• Toss in Sauce: Toss the wings in the hot honey sauce immediately after cooking for the best flavor.
• Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh finish.

Ingredients

If you’re up for it, I’ve got a spice rub that you can use. It has the perfect blend of flavors!

• Chicken wings
• Hot sauce
• Honey
• Unsalted butter
• Garlic
• Salt and pepper
• Seasoning blend (optional)
• Vegetable oil
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh cilantro or parsley

Optional seasoning rub

• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

How to Make Hot Honey Chicken Wings

Don’t worry, there is nothing to it. I’ve got options here for frying and for baking these wings in the oven.

Sauce

1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. 
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. 
3. Stir in the hot sauce and honey, and season with salt and pepper to taste. 
4. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

Frying Chicken

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C) in a large skillet or deep fryer. 
3. Fry the chicken wings in batches for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and place the fried wings on the wire rack on the baking sheet to drain.
4. Transfer the fried chicken wings to a large mixing bowl.
5. Pour the hot honey sauce over the wings and toss until evenly coated.
6. Place the coated wings back onto the wire rack on the baking sheet. 
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the wings are cooked through and the sauce is caramelized.
8. Remove the wings from the oven and let them cool slightly. 
9. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. 

Oven Baked Chicken

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) together in a small bowl.
3. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken wings and toss until evenly coated.
4. Place the seasoned chicken wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are in a single layer and not touching.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the wings are golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through cooking.
6. Transfer the fried chicken wings to a large mixing bowl. 
7. Pour the hot honey sauce over the wings and toss until evenly coated.
8. Place the coated wings back onto the wire rack on the baking sheet. 
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the wings are cooked through and the sauce is caramelized.
10. Remove the wings from the oven and let them cool slightly. 
11. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired. 

Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need for Hot Honey Chicken Wings

Honey makes the best hot wings. There is something about it that just blends so well with a little spice. Mouthwatering!

• Large mixing bowl
• Small bowl
• Wire rack
• Baking sheet
• Large skillet or deep fryer
• Small saucepan
• Tongs
• Paper towels
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

What to Serve With Hot Honey Chicken Wings

I like to have something to dip my wings in. Typically it’s some ranch or blue cheese. Then again, you could have a side of honey ready as well!

• Carrot and Celery Sticks: Classic accompaniments that add a refreshing crunch.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: Perfect for dipping and balancing the spicy flavors.
• Sweet Potato Fries: A delicious side that pairs well with the sweet and spicy wings.
• Coleslaw: Adds a cool, creamy contrast to the hot wings.
• Rice: Serve over a bed of rice for a satisfying meal.
• Cornbread: A sweet and savory addition that complements the flavors of the wings.

Why You Should Make Hot Honey Chicken Wings

I think everyone should have a good hot wings recipe on hand. I’ve prepared this one with the perfect balance of flavor!

• Delicious Flavor: The perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory.
• Easy Recipe: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your liking.
• Beautiful Presentation: Golden brown wings with a sticky sauce look amazing.

Variations and Add-Ins for Hot Honey Chicken Wings

Please, don’t be afraid to try new things with this recipe. That’s what cooking is all about! You might just find a flavor that suits you even better.

• Red Pepper Flakes: Add for extra heat.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle on top for a nutty crunch.
• Soy Sauce: Add a splash to the sauce for an umami flavor.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Mix into the sauce for a tangy twist.
• Chili Powder: Include in the seasoning mix for more spice.
• Brown Sugar: Add to the sauce for a deeper sweetness.
• Garlic Powder: Enhance the seasoning blend with more garlic flavor.
• BBQ Sauce: Mix with the hot honey sauce for a smoky flavor.
• Ranch Dressing: Serve on the side for dipping.

If you love this game day recipe, you’re going to love these other recipes featuring honey too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!

More Chicken Wings You’ll Love

Garlic and Honey Chicken Wings

Pellet Grill Chicken Wings

Grilled Chicken Wings

Sweet Thai Chili Wings

---

---