Print

Crispy Sticky BBQ Chicken Wings Recipe Easy Sweet Smoky Glaze

crispy sticky bbq chicken wings - featured image

These crispy sticky BBQ chicken wings feature a sweet and smoky glaze that caramelizes perfectly on the skin, delivering a deliciously addictive comfort food experience. Ready in under 45 minutes, they are perfect for family gatherings, game days, or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • ¼ cup ketchup (60 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
  2. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss wings with baking powder, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
  3. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they are not touching.
  4. Bake the wings for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through (around 20 minutes) to crisp the other side. Wings should be golden, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F or 74°C).
  5. While wings bake, whisk together brown sugar, honey, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and chili powder (if using) in a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves and glaze thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
  6. Transfer baked wings to a clean bowl. Pour warm glaze over wings and toss gently to coat.
  7. Optional: Place glazed wings back on the rack and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes for an extra sticky finish, watching closely to avoid burning.
  8. Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.

Notes

Pat wings dry thoroughly before seasoning to ensure crispiness. Use baking powder (not baking soda) to achieve crispy skin. Use a wire rack to allow air circulation and prevent sogginess. Flip wings halfway through baking for even crisping. Glaze after initial baking to avoid burning sugars. For gluten-free, use gluten-free baking powder and Worcestershire sauce alternatives. Wings can be reheated in the oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness. The glaze can be made ahead and refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: BBQ chicken wings, crispy chicken wings, sticky wings, sweet smoky glaze, baked chicken wings, party food, game day recipe