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Crispy Honey Bourbon BBQ Chicken Wings

crispy honey bourbon bbq chicken wings - featured image

These crispy chicken wings are coated with a sticky honey bourbon BBQ sauce that delivers a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors. Easy to make and perfect for weeknights or parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds chicken wings, tips removed if preferred
  • 1 tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup honey (85g)
  • 3 tablespoons bourbon (45ml)
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (120ml), smoky style recommended
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons sriracha or hot sauce, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
  2. Dry the chicken wings thoroughly with paper towels to remove moisture.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the wings with baking powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  4. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they are not touching.
  5. Bake the wings for 30 minutes, then flip and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  6. While the wings bake, prepare the sauce by combining honey, bourbon, BBQ sauce, sriracha, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon juice in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  7. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until slightly thickened. Avoid boiling vigorously.
  8. Once wings are crispy, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the warm sauce over. Toss to coat evenly.
  9. Serve immediately with optional dipping sauces or celery sticks.

Notes

Pat wings dry thoroughly to ensure crispiness. Use aluminum-free baking powder to avoid off flavors. Use a wire rack to allow air circulation and even crisping. Add sauce after baking to keep skin crispy. Reheat leftovers in the oven at 375°F for 10 minutes to restore crispness. For gluten-free, verify BBQ sauce ingredients or make your own.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken wings, honey bourbon BBQ, crispy wings, spicy wings, party food, easy chicken recipe