If you're craving something sticky, savory, and just a tad sweet, these Zesty Honey Garlic Crockpot Chicken Wings are about to become your new favorite. Perfect for game day or a casual family dinner, they blend the warm comfort of a slow-cooked meal with a zesty kick that leaves you reaching for more.
Chicken wings are the star, offering the perfect balance of meat, skin, and bone to soak up flavor. Honey adds natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully, while soy sauce brings depth and umami. Ketchup gives a tangy base, working with the apple cider vinegar to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall zing. Garlic and ground ginger add aromatic layers, and a hint of black pepper provides a subtle heat. To thicken the sauce, you'll use a slurry made from cornstarch and water.
Serve these wings with a side of crunchy coleslaw or a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. They're also great alongside a bowl of steamed jasmine rice to soak up the extra sauce.
Start by whisking together your sauce ingredients in a medium bowl: honey, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. This mixture should be smooth and well-combined, setting the stage for the flavors to meld beautifully in the slow cooker.
Next, place the chicken wings directly into your crockpot. Pour the honey garlic mixture over them, ensuring each wing is nicely coated. This is key for the flavor infusion during the slow cooking process. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for about 4-5 hours. The slow heat will tenderize the wings, allowing the sauce to permeate deeply.
Once the wings are tender, preheat your broiler. Carefully transfer the cooked wings to a baking sheet lined with foil. Broil them for 3-4 minutes. This step isn't just for looks — it crisps up the skin, adding a delightful texture contrast.
While the wings are broiling, pour the sauce from the crockpot into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then stir it into the simmering sauce. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Once thickened, toss the wings back in the sauce, ensuring they're well-coated. This step locks in all that luscious flavor, making each bite juicy and satisfying. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of freshness and texture before serving.
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