Description
These Spicy Party Wings are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, featuring crispy baked chicken wings coated in a flavorful blend of spices and a tangy, slightly sweet hot sauce glaze. Perfect for game day or any gathering, these wings deliver a punch of heat balanced with honeyed richness.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Wings
- 2½ lbs chicken wings, drumettes and flats separated
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Sauce
- ½ cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp honey (secret ingredient!)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). If you prefer frying, heat oil to 375°F (190°C) instead.
- Dry the wings. Pat the chicken wings thoroughly dry using paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Season the wings. In a large bowl, toss the wings with baking powder, salt, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper until all pieces are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- Arrange the wings. Place the wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, allowing air to circulate around each wing for even cooking and crisping. If frying, prepare your fryer at this stage.
- Cook the wings. Bake the wings for 35 to 40 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness. If frying, cook for 8 to 10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare the sauce. While the wings cook, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the hot sauce and honey, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Toss wings in sauce. Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and toss them with the spicy sauce until they are thoroughly coated.
- Serve immediately. Enjoy your spicy party wings hot, paired with ranch, blue cheese dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Patting the wings dry is essential to achieving crispy skin when baking.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the heat level.
- Baking on a wire rack lets excess fat drip away and promotes even crisping.
- Honey in the sauce adds a subtle sweetness to balance the spiciness.
- If frying, use a deep-fry thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature for safety and best results.
- Serve wings immediately after tossing for optimal taste and texture.