Sticky BBQ Baked Chicken Wings
Crispy baked wings smothered in a tangy, sticky BBQ glaze that caramelizes perfectly in the oven.
About This Wings Recipe
Sticky BBQ baked chicken wings have become an American staple for gatherings, game days, and weeknight dinners alike. These wings offer the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat, coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy BBQ glaze that clings to every crevice. Unlike fried wings, these baked versions deliver that satisfying crunch without the excess oil, making them a crowd-pleasing option that's both indulgent and approachable. The magic lies in the two-stage cooking process: first baking at high temperature to render fat and crisp the skin, then applying the sauce and broiling to create that signature sticky, caramelized finish. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or hosting friends for the big game, these wings are guaranteed to disappear from the platter faster than you can say 'pass the napkins.'
Sticky BBQ Baked Chicken Wings Ingredients
- 3 -4 pounds chicken wings
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
How to Make Sticky BBQ Baked Chicken Wings
- 1
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- 2
Pat chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. Separate at joints if whole and trim excess fat.
- 3
Season wings generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- 4
Arrange wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they don't touch. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- 5
While wings bake, prepare glaze: combine BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low until warmed through.
- 6
Reduce oven to broil. Brush wings with a light coating of warm BBQ glaze.
- 7
Broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Rotate pan and broil 1-2 more minutes until glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
- 8
Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes before serving. Serve with celery sticks and dipping sauce.
Chef's Tips
- For extra crispy wings, toss with 1 tablespoon of baking powder before seasoning - it helps draw out moisture and creates a superior crust
- Make your BBQ sauce by combining ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite spices for a custom flavor profile
- Double the recipe and freeze half after baking - they reheat beautifully for quick weeknight meals
Nutrition Facts
320
Calories
28g
Protein
18g
Fat
12g
Carbs
Serving Suggestions
Serve sticky BBQ baked chicken wings hot with classic accompaniments like celery sticks, carrot sticks, and ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce. For a complete meal, pair them with coleslaw, potato wedges, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a vibrant finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recipe card
Sticky BBQ Baked Chicken Wings
Crispy baked wings smothered in a tangy, sticky BBQ glaze that caramelizes perfectly in the oven.
Prep
20 min
Cook
50 min
Total
70 min
Servings
4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 3-4 pounds chicken wings
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Pat chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. Separate at joints if whole and trim excess fat.
- Season wings generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Arrange wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they don't touch. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- While wings bake, prepare glaze: combine BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and cayenne in a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low until warmed through.
- Reduce oven to broil. Brush wings with a light coating of warm BBQ glaze.
- Broil for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Rotate pan and broil 1-2 more minutes until glaze is bubbly and caramelized.
- Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes before serving. Serve with celery sticks and dipping sauce.
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