Craving a flavorful and easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! These honey garlic chicken wings are the perfect solution. Crispy, sticky, and bursting with sweet and savory goodness, they’re guaranteed to become a family favorite. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to master. Get ready to experience the best of homemade cooking with this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely.
Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). This is where the magic happens – the perfect balance of sweet and savory!
Step 3: Marinate (Optional but Recommended)
For extra flavor, add the chicken wings to the honey garlic sauce and toss to coat. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even longer in the refrigerator for a deeper flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken Wings
Arrange the chicken wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Create the Glaze
While the chicken wings are baking, prepare the cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth.
Step 6: Glaze and Finish
Once the chicken wings are cooked, increase the oven temperature to broil. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and brush the wings generously with the cornstarch slurry. This creates a beautiful, glossy glaze. Broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning, until the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious, healthy meal!
Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Chicken Wings:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the chicken wings are in a single layer for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your preference.
- Make it ahead: You can marinate the chicken wings ahead of time and bake them when you're ready.
Variations:
- Spicy Honey Garlic Wings: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.
- Teriyaki Honey Garlic Wings: Substitute soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Air Fryer Honey Garlic Wings: These wings can also be cooked in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
These honey garlic chicken wings are a perfect example of delicious and easy recipes. They’re a great quick dinner idea, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or even a satisfying healthy meal. Enjoy!