The Best Crispy Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Wings: Your Ultimate Game Day Appetizer!
Prepare for an explosion of flavor with these incredibly easy-to-make honey garlic chicken wings. Baked to absolute perfection until gloriously crispy, then lovingly tossed in a rich, sticky, and utterly irresistible savory-sweet sauce, these wings are guaranteed to be a crowd-plepleaser. Whether you’re hosting a lively game day party, planning a casual get-together, or simply craving a finger-licking good meal, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Forget the greasy mess of deep-frying; our oven-baked method ensures perfectly cooked, crispy wings with minimal fuss and maximum taste!
Why This Oven-Baked Honey Garlic Wing Recipe Is a Must-Try
This recipe for honey garlic chicken wings stands out for several compelling reasons, making it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire:
- Effortless Cleanup with Oven Baking: One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is that the chicken wings are baked in the oven. This eliminates the need for deep-frying, which often results in an oily kitchen and a significant cleanup effort. Baking allows the fat to render slowly, resulting in beautifully crispy skin without the splatters and mess. It’s a healthier cooking method too, using less oil while still achieving that desired crunch.
- Quick & Flavorful Sauce: The star of these wings is undoubtedly the sticky garlic-honey-soy sauce. It comes together in a single saucepan in mere minutes, featuring a harmonious blend of sweet honey and brown sugar, savory soy sauce, tangy white wine vinegar, and pungent minced garlic. This multi-layered flavor profile coats each wing perfectly, creating an addictive glaze that you’ll want to lick right off your fingers.
- Versatile Use for the Sauce: While chicken wings are the perfect vehicle for this incredible sauce, its versatility extends far beyond. You can easily adapt it into a honey garlic marinade, transforming ordinary chicken breasts or thighs into a culinary delight. It also makes an excellent addition to a quick and flavorful chicken stir-fry, adding a sweet and savory kick to your favorite vegetables and noodles.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a lively game day gathering, a casual backyard barbecue, or simply looking for an easy and satisfying weeknight dinner, these wings fit the bill. They’re a fantastic appetizer that disappears quickly, but substantial enough to be served as the main course with a few complementary sides.
- Consistently Crispy Results: The two-stage baking process (first without sauce, then with) ensures maximum crispiness, while allowing the sauce to caramelize and become perfectly sticky, adhering beautifully to every piece of chicken.
Essential Ingredients for Delicious Honey Garlic Wings
Crafting the perfect batch of honey garlic chicken wings requires a few key ingredients, each playing a vital role in achieving that signature crispy texture and irresistible sticky glaze. You can find all specific measurements, detailed ingredients, and full instructions in the printable recipe card located at the end of this post.
Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions
- CHICKEN WINGS: You will need approximately 4 pounds of skin-on chicken wings. For best results, ensure the wings are cut into separate drumettes and flats. If you buy whole wings, simply use a sharp knife to slice through the joint that connects the two sections. The skin is crucial for achieving that desirable crispy exterior, so avoid skinless wings for this recipe. For extra crispiness, pat the wings thoroughly dry with paper towels before seasoning.
- SAUCE BASE: The heart of this recipe is the incredibly flavorful honey garlic sauce. It’s built on a foundation of:
- Soy Sauce: We recommend using low-sodium soy sauce to control the overall saltiness of the dish, allowing the other flavors to shine. If you only have regular soy sauce, you might want to slightly reduce the amount.
- White Wine Vinegar: This adds a crucial tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the honey and brown sugar, balancing the flavor profile beautifully. Rice vinegar can be a suitable substitute if white wine vinegar isn’t available, offering a similar mild acidity.
- Minced Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best and most potent garlic flavor, which is central to this recipe. About three tablespoons will give you a robust garlic punch. If using pre-minced garlic from a jar, adjust to taste as its flavor can sometimes be milder.
- Brown Sugar & Honey: These are the sweet elements that give the sauce its characteristic sticky glaze. Brown sugar adds a deeper molasses note, while honey provides natural sweetness and helps create that glossy, caramelized finish.
- Cornstarch & Water (Slurry): A simple slurry made from cornstarch and cold water is essential for thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency. It ensures the sauce clings to the wings, creating that wonderful sticky coating. Make sure to mix the cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the hot sauce to prevent lumps.
- WING SEASONING: Before baking, the wings are tossed with a simple mixture to enhance their flavor and aid in crisping:
- Olive Oil: Helps the seasonings adhere to the chicken and promotes browning and crispiness. Any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil can also be used.
- Garlic Salt & Black Pepper: These seasonings provide an initial layer of flavor to the chicken itself before the sauce is added. If using regular salt instead of garlic salt, remember to add additional minced garlic to the wings or sauce for balanced flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken Wings
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this delicious recipe. For a quick jump to the printable version, complete with precise measurements and full instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of the page.
- Preheat your oven to 425 F (220 C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy skin on your chicken wings.
- Prepare your baking setup: Line a large baking sheet with foil for easier cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. Using a wire rack allows air to circulate around the wings, ensuring they get crispy on all sides without sitting in rendered fat.
- In a large bowl, place your chicken wings. Ensure they are well-patted dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture; this is key to maximizing crispiness!
- In a separate small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well mixed.
- Pour the oil mixture over the chicken wings in the large bowl. Using gloved hands (or clean bare hands), thoroughly toss the wings, making sure each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning blend. This initial seasoning is vital for flavor and helps create a delicious crust.
Toss the chicken wings thoroughly with the oil and seasonings. - Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the prepared wire rack over the baking sheet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Give them enough space for air to circulate. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes. During this first bake, the wings will cook through, and their skin will start to crisp up and turn golden.
Arrange wings in a single layer for even cooking and crispiness. - While the chicken wings are baking, prepare the irresistible honey garlic sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine all the sauce ingredients EXCEPT the cornstarch and water. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
Combine sauce ingredients and bring to a gentle boil. 
The sauce bubbling gently before thickening. - In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a smooth slurry. Once the sauce in the saucepan is gently boiling, slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the saucepan while continuously whisking. Continue to whisk occasionally until the sauce begins to thicken to a glossy, syrupy consistency. Remove the saucepan from the heat once thickened to prevent it from becoming too thick.
Adding the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. - Once the wings are finished with their initial bake (after 35-40 minutes), carefully remove them from the oven. Using tongs, transfer a few wings at a time into the saucepan with the thickened honey garlic sauce. Toss each wing thoroughly until it is completely coated in the sticky glaze. Place the coated wings back onto the wire rack over the baking sheet. Repeat this process for all remaining wings.
Coating the crispy wings in the delicious honey garlic sauce. - Return the baking sheet with the sauce-coated wings to the oven for an additional 15 minutes. This final bake allows the sauce to caramelize and truly stick to the wings, intensifying the flavor and creating that signature sticky exterior. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning due to the sugar content in the sauce.
The final bake for perfect caramelization and stickiness.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Honey Garlic Wings
Yes, absolutely! This versatile honey garlic sauce is fantastic on other cuts of chicken. In fact, we have dedicated recipes for both honey garlic chicken breast and honey garlic chicken thighs that you can refer to. The cooking times will vary depending on the cut and thickness, but the flavor profile will remain equally delicious.
To store any leftover honey garlic chicken wings, place them in an air-tight container and keep them in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh and delicious for 3-4 days. For best results when reheating, use an air fryer or oven to crisp them up again.
For food safety, all parts of chicken – including legs, wings, thighs, and breasts – are considered fully cooked and safe to eat when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Always use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest portion of the meat, being careful not to touch the bone, as bones heat up faster than meat.
To achieve maximum crispiness:
- Pat Dry: Ensure your chicken wings are as dry as possible before seasoning. Excess moisture creates steam, which prevents crisping.
- Baking Powder Trick: For an ultimate crisp, mix ½ to 1 teaspoon of baking powder (not baking soda!) per pound of chicken wings with your salt and pepper. The baking powder helps to break down proteins in the skin and draw out moisture, leading to an incredibly crispy exterior.
- Wire Rack: Always use a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate completely around each wing, preventing the bottom from becoming soggy.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give your wings space on the baking sheet. If they’re too close, they’ll steam instead of roast, leading to less crispy results.
Yes, absolutely! The honey garlic sauce can be made 1-2 days in advance. Prepare it as directed, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use, gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until it’s smooth and warm before tossing with the baked wings.
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an air fryer! For the initial bake, arrange seasoned wings in a single layer in your air fryer basket, cooking at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and cooked through. Then, toss with the prepared honey garlic sauce and return to the air fryer for another 5-7 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to caramelize the sauce. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Serving Suggestions for Your Irresistible Honey Garlic Wings
These honey garlic chicken wings are incredibly versatile and can be served in many delicious ways, whether as a standalone appetizer or part of a larger meal. Here are some ideas to make them even more special:
- Garnish for Freshness and Flavor: Elevate the presentation and add extra layers of flavor with simple garnishes. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and herbaceous note. Toasted sesame seeds contribute a nutty crunch and an authentic Asian-inspired touch. Thinly sliced green onions (scallions) offer a mild oniony bite that complements the sweet and savory sauce beautifully.
- Dipping Sauces: While the wings are packed with flavor on their own, some people enjoy a little something extra on the side. Offer classic dipping sauces like creamy ranch dressing or tangy blue cheese dressing.
- Classic Accompaniments: For a true pub-style experience or game day spread, serve your wings with crisp celery sticks and carrot sticks. Their refreshing crunch provides a nice contrast to the rich wings.
- Making it a Meal: Transform these wings into a hearty main course by serving them alongside:
- Steamed White Rice or Brown Rice: The fluffy rice is perfect for soaking up any extra sticky sauce.
- Noodles: A side of simple stir-fried noodles or lo mein can make for a more substantial and satisfying dinner.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the wings.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans are excellent choices for a wholesome addition.
Enjoy these wings hot and fresh – they’re at their best when the sauce is still warm and gloriously sticky!
Explore More Delicious Chicken Wing Recipes
If you’re a fan of chicken wings, there’s a world of flavors to explore! Once you’ve mastered these honey garlic wings, why not try some other fantastic recipes from our collection?
- Spicy Wings: For those who love a kick!
- Fried Chicken Wings: A classic for a reason, perfectly crispy.
- Korean Fried Chicken: Double-fried for ultimate crunch and smothered in a savory-sweet-spicy sauce.
- Garlic Parmesan Wings: A cheesy, garlicky delight.
I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Honey Garlic Chicken Wings
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It
Pin It
Rate It
Save ItSaved!
Ingredients
- 4 pounds skin on chicken wings cut into drummies and flats
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- ⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 Tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 3 Tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ cup honey
- 1 ½ Tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 Tablespoons water
Things You’ll Need
-
Mixing bowls
-
Wire cooling rack
-
Baking sheet
Before You Begin
- To cut the wings into drummies and flats, use a sharp knife to slice through the joint that connects the two. Ensure wings are thoroughly patted dry for maximum crispiness.
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 425 F (220 C).
-
Line a large baking sheet with foil. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet.
-
Place well-patted dry wings in a large bowl.
-
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic salt, and pepper.
-
Pour oil mixture onto the wings. Using gloved hands, toss to coat all the wings evenly.
-
Place wings on the wire rack over a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake in preheated oven for 35-40 minutes.
-
While wings are cooking, combine all the sauce ingredients, except the cornstarch and water, in a medium saucepan. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
-
Make a slurry from the cornstarch and water. Slowly pour it into the saucepan, whisking continuously until the sauce begins to thicken to a syrupy consistency. Remove from heat.
-
When wings come out of the oven, use tongs to place a few at a time into the saucepan with the sauce. Coat each wing thoroughly and place them back on the rack over the baking sheet. Repeat for all wings.
-
Place the pan of sauce-coated wings back into the oven for another 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize and become sticky.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- You will have some delicious honey garlic chicken wing sauce left over, which is perfect for brushing on the finished wings just before serving or to use as an extra dipping sauce on the side.
- Store leftovers in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.
- Always ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat (avoiding bone).
- For ultra-crispy wings, pat them extremely dry with paper towels before seasoning. You can also toss them with 1/2 tsp baking powder per pound of chicken before seasoning and baking.
- Do not overcrowd your baking sheet. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even air circulation and crispiness.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.