If there's one thing that can elevate a game night or a casual get-together, it's a batch of sticky, spicy, and sweet Sriracha Honey Glazed Chicken Wings. These wings strike the perfect balance between heat and honey sweetness, making them irresistibly addictive.
The secret to crispy baked wings is baking powder. When combined with salt and black pepper, it helps to dry out the skin, resulting in a delightful crunch. The honey in the glaze balances the heat from the sriracha sauce, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Soy sauce adds depth, while unsalted butter gives the glaze a rich texture. Freshly minced garlic and a touch of lime juice enhance the overall taste. Finally, a hint of sesame oil adds an aromatic twist, while sesame seeds and fresh cilantro bring a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.
These wings pair beautifully with a cool, creamy coleslaw or a fresh cucumber salad to balance out the heat. If you're hosting a party, serve them alongside some crunchy vegetable sticks and a tangy blue cheese dip for a complete appetizer spread.
First, let's get that oven preheated to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving that crispy skin we all love. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. The wire rack allows air to circulate around the wings, ensuring they cook evenly.
Next, pat your chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is important because moisture is the enemy of crispiness. In a large bowl, toss the wings with salt, black pepper, and baking powder. Make sure each wing is evenly coated; this mixture will work its magic in the oven.
Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared rack. Pop them in the oven and let them bake for 45-50 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides get that beautiful golden brown color.
While the wings are baking, it's time to whip up the glaze. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, butter, garlic, lime juice, and sesame oil. Stir until the butter is melted and everything is well combined. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, until it thickens slightly. This glaze is where all the magic happens.
Once the wings are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Transfer them to a large bowl, pour the glaze over, and toss until they're evenly coated. The wings should be glistening with that gorgeous glaze.
Finally, sprinkle the wings with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro. Not only do they add to the flavor, but they also make the dish look stunning. Ready to dig in?