Get ready to elevate your chicken wing game with this Sweet and Spicy Wings recipe. It's the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making it an irresistible dish for game nights, parties, or just a fun family dinner.
Chicken wings are the star here, offering a great canvas for our flavorful sauce. The combination of honey and sriracha sauce creates that perfect sweet-heat balance. Soy sauce adds depth and umami, while apple cider vinegar cuts through the richness with a subtle tang. Olive oil helps everything adhere, and the spices — garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika — bring aromatic warmth. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh cilantro for a nutty, fresh finish.
These wings pair wonderfully with a crisp, refreshing slaw or a simple cucumber salad. For a hearty meal, serve alongside some fluffy jasmine rice or roasted vegetables. A cold beer or a sparkling soda can complement the spice nicely.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the wings will cook through and develop a nice crispy skin. Line a baking sheet with foil to make cleanup easier — trust me, you'll be grateful later.
In a large bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, sriracha, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until everything's smooth and well combined.
Add the chicken wings to the bowl. Using tongs or your hands, toss them until they're evenly coated with the marinade. This is where you'll see the magic start to happen — the wings absorbing all that flavor.
Arrange the wings in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. This ensures they cook evenly and get that desired crispiness. Pop them in the oven for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This flip is crucial for even cooking and crispy skin.
While the wings are baking, toast your sesame seeds in a small pan over low heat. Keep an eye on them, as they can go from golden to burnt quickly. Once golden, set them aside.
Once your wings are done, let them cool slightly. This rest helps them firm up a bit. Sprinkle with those toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro before serving, adding a pop of flavor and color.