Name: Sweet Chili Chicken Wings
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken wing portions; to taste kosher salt; to taste ground black pepper; ¼ cup honey BBQ sauce; ¼ cup sweet chili sauce; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

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Whenever I think of gathering with friends and family, the first dish that comes to my mind is Sweet Chili Chicken Wings. It’s the ultimate party food! Imagine the laughter, the excitement, and the sound of crispy wings being devoured. I remember the first time I made these wings; it was a spontaneous decision during a cozy football Sunday. I had some friends over, and I thought, why not whip up something that everyone would love? As soon as those wings came out of the oven, the aroma filled the air, and I knew I had a winner. The sweet and spicy glaze on the wings pairs perfectly with their crispy skin, making them utterly irresistible. It’s hard to have just one!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
40 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
35 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Whisk, Oven

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Chili Chicken Wings

Flavor Explosion

The first bite of Sweet Chili Chicken Wings transports you to flavor town! The combination of sweet chili sauce and honey BBQ creates a sticky glaze that clings to each wing, making every mouthful a delightful experience. You’ll love how the sweetness balances the heat of the red pepper flakes, creating a perfect harmony.

Perfectly Crispy

Achieving that crispy exterior is a game-changer. By patting the wings dry before seasoning, you ensure that they bake up nice and crunchy. Trust me, no one wants a soggy wing! If you want to take that crispiness to the next level, consider broiling them for a few minutes after baking. You’ll be amazed at the results!

Simple Cooking Method

What I appreciate most about this recipe is how straightforward it is. You don’t need to be a culinary expert to pull it off. Just preheat your oven, season the wings, and let them bake. It’s practically foolproof! Plus, while they’re baking, you can whip up the sauce and multitask like a pro.

Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or just a casual weeknight dinner, Sweet Chili Chicken Wings fit the bill. They’re perfect as appetizers or served with sides for a complete meal. Everyone loves wings, and they’re a guaranteed hit!

Customization Options

The best part about making wings at home is the freedom to customize. You can adjust the level of heat by altering the amount of red pepper flakes or even adding in some extra spices. Want to change things up? Try different sauces or marinades! The possibilities are endless.

Leftover Magic

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), they make for an excellent addition to salads or sandwiches. Just reheat them in the oven to maintain that crispiness, and you’ll have another delicious meal ready in no time!

Ingredient List for Sweet Chili Chicken Wings

When it comes to making Sweet Chili Chicken Wings, the ingredients play a vital role in creating that unforgettable flavor. The blend of sweet and savory elements works harmoniously, making each bite satisfying. Here’s a closer look at the key players in this delicious recipe:

12 bone-in, skin-on chicken wing portions: The star of the dish! Chicken wings are perfect for holding onto flavors and become irresistibly crispy when baked.
kosher salt: Essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the wings.
ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the sauce.
¼ cup honey BBQ sauce: This sweet BBQ sauce adds depth and richness to the glaze.
¼ cup sweet chili sauce: The heart of this recipe, providing that signature sweet and spicy kick.
3 tablespoons soy sauce: Brings umami and saltiness, balancing the sweetness.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: A must for flavor enhancement, giving that savory punch.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Offers additional depth and a hint of sweetness.
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds the perfect amount of heat to the mix.

Cooking Method for Sweet Chili Chicken Wings

Cooking Sweet Chili Chicken Wings is a fun and rewarding process! You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create these scrumptious wings in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions that will leave you with perfectly baked wings:

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your wings cook evenly and develop that desired crispy texture. While the oven is heating, gather your ingredients to make the process smoother.
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. This not only makes for easy cleanup but also helps in cooking the wings evenly. If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet to allow air to circulate around the wings.
Place 12 bone-in, skin-on chicken wing portions on the baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out well; this helps them crisp up instead of steaming.
Season the wings generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper. This might seem simple, but it’s essential for flavor. I usually go light on salt at first, as it can always be adjusted later.
Bake the wings for 15 minutes. During this time, the wings will start to render their fat and cook through. You will notice a lovely aroma filling your kitchen at this point!
While the wings are baking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup honey BBQ sauce, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes. Make sure it’s well combined; this sauce is the star of the show!
After 15 minutes, remove the wings from the oven and brush them with the prepared sauce. Use a basting brush to coat them thoroughly. The sauce will stick wonderfully to the wings.
Return the wings to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step allows the sauce to caramelize slightly, creating that irresistible sticky glaze.
Remove the wings from the oven again and brush them with the sauce once more. This second coating is crucial for maximizing flavor and ensuring every bite is delicious.
Finally, bake for another 10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. By this point, your wings should be beautifully golden brown and ready to serve!

Things Worth Knowing

Pat the wings dry: This tip is vital! Gently drying the wings before seasoning helps them crisp up beautifully.
Use a wire rack: Baking wings on a wire rack allows for better air circulation, resulting in crispier wings.
Broil for extra crispiness: If you want that perfect crunchy skin, broil the wings for a few minutes at the end of baking.
Serve immediately: Enjoy your wings hot from the oven for the best texture and flavor experience.

Make It Your Own

Getting creative with Sweet Chili Chicken Wings is half the fun! Here are some ideas to help you personalize your wings:

Storage: If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container in the fridge. They should last for about three days.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked wings! Place them in a freezer bag, and they’ll be good for up to three months. Just reheat in the oven.
Pairing: Wings pair beautifully with a side of celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Spice it up: For an extra kick, consider adding more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze.
Variations: Try out different sauces like teriyaki or a spicy garlic sauce for a new spin on these wings.

How to Enjoy Sweet Chili Chicken Wings

Serving Sweet Chili Chicken Wings can turn any gathering into a feast! Here are some thoughtful ways to enjoy them:

As a main dish: Serve these wings alongside some fragrant rice or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Game day snacks: They’re perfect finger foods for watching sports! Set them on a platter with plenty of napkins.
Casual dinners: Enjoy them for a relaxed family dinner, paired with your favorite dipping sauces.
Outdoor events: These wings are a hit at BBQs and picnics. They’re easy to transport, making them ideal for potlucks!
Seasonal favorites: Wings are great year-round but are especially popular during events like Super Bowl Sunday or summer get-togethers.
Leftover ideas: If you have any leftovers, toss them in a salad or use them in a wrap for a quick lunch!

FAQ

Sweet chili chicken wings are distinct due to their flavorful glaze made from sweet chili sauce and honey BBQ sauce. This combination gives the wings a sweet and spicy kick, unlike traditional buffalo wings that are usually just hot sauce. The balance of flavors and the sticky texture make them irresistible!

Yes, you can prepare sweet chili chicken wings in advance! You can season the wings and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, just bake them as directed. This makes them a convenient option for parties or gatherings!

If you want to add more heat to your sweet chili chicken wings, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce or add a dash of hot sauce. Experimenting with spices is a fun way to customize your wings to your taste preferences!

There are many delicious sides that pair wonderfully with sweet chili chicken wings. Consider serving them alongside a fresh garden salad, coleslaw, or crispy fries. Veggies like celery and carrots with ranch or blue cheese dressing also make great accompaniments!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sweet Chili Chicken Wings are more than just a dish; they’re a celebration of flavors that can bring any gathering to life. Their perfect balance of sweet and spicy makes them a treat for any occasion. I encourage you to try making these wings at home; you might just find a new favorite recipe that’ll impress everyone at your next event!