Chef Mitchell preparing Sweet Glazed Chicken Wings
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered the joy of sweet glazed chicken wings at a backyard barbecue. The blend of flavors was mesmerizing, and I knew I had to recreate it. After months of tinkering with ingredients and techniques, I perfected this recipe. Now, it's a staple at my gatherings, bringing friends and family together over delicious food."

With over a decade of experience in the culinary world, I specialize in American cuisine and particularly love creating tasty appetizers. My passion for cooking is matched only by my love for sharing meals with others. I have dedicated my career to perfecting recipes that make gatherings memorable.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Sweet Glazed Chicken Wings served on a plate

Why This Sweet Glazed Chicken Wings Recipe Works

This Sweet Glazed Chicken Wings recipe is a favorite because of its balance of flavors. The sweetness from the brown sugar and honey complements the savory soy sauce and spices perfectly. Each wing is coated in a delicious glaze that caramelizes in the oven, creating a beautiful finish that not only looks appealing but tastes amazing.

The technique of first tossing the wings in the glaze and then baking them allows the flavors to penetrate the meat while also creating that coveted crispy skin. Turning the wings halfway through ensures even cooking and browning, making every bite delightful.

💡 Professional Tip

For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the wings in the glaze for a few hours or overnight before baking. This gives the chicken time to absorb all the delicious flavors and makes for an even more satisfying bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the wings and coat them with the glaze in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves you time but also enhances the flavor as the wings marinate in the glaze.

If you're looking for a soy sauce substitute, tamari is a great gluten-free option. Alternatively, coconut aminos can be used for a slightly sweeter flavor. You can also create a homemade blend using broth, vinegar, and spices to mimic the umami taste of soy sauce.

The wings are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the skin should be crispy, and the glaze should appear caramelized. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Yes, you can freeze the wings either before or after cooking. To freeze, place the uncooked wings coated in glaze in a freezer-safe bag or container. If cooked, let them cool completely before freezing. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

These wings pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving with celery and carrot sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. A light salad or coleslaw can also complement the richness of the wings.

When stored properly in an airtight container, Sweet Glazed Chicken Wings can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving to enjoy them warm again.

Yes, you can prepare the wings and glaze ahead of time. However, it's best to bake them fresh for optimal texture. You can glaze the wings and keep them in the fridge for up to a day before baking them to allow the flavors to develop.

The best way to reheat Sweet Glazed Chicken Wings is in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the wings on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps to keep the skin crispy.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

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Too Dry

Problem: If your wings turn out too dry, it might be because of overcooking.

Solution: To avoid this in the future, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and remove the wings from the oven as soon as they reach 165°F (75°C).

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Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Wings that aren't crispy enough can be disappointing.

Solution: Make sure to bake at a high temperature and consider broiling them for the last few minutes for an extra crisp. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, which can cause steaming instead of crisping.

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Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked wings can be tough and less enjoyable.

Prevention: To prevent this, keep a close eye on the wings as they bake and check for doneness with a thermometer. Remove them promptly when they reach the correct internal temperature.

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Undercooked Center

Problem: Undercooked wings can be unsafe to eat.

Recovery: If you find that the wings are undercooked, return them to the oven immediately and bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

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Burnt Exterior

Problem: Burnt wings can happen if the temperature is too high or if they cook too long.

Prevention: Keep an eye on the wings and adjust the oven temperature if necessary. If they are getting too dark, cover them loosely with foil.

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Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the wings are too sweet, add a splash of vinegar or some chili flakes to balance the flavor.

Too Salty: If they are too salty, serve with a side of plain yogurt or sour cream to offset the saltiness.

Bland: If the wings are bland, consider marinating them longer or adding extra seasoning before baking.

Fresh ingredients for Sweet Glazed Chicken Wings

Essential Ingredients for Sweet Glazed Chicken Wings

Key ingredients for this recipe include fresh chicken wings, which provide the perfect base. The glaze made from butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, and honey adds depth and richness to the wings. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building flavor, ensuring that every bite is packed with deliciousness.

Using high-quality ingredients is essential for the best results. Opt for fresh or organic chicken wings when possible, and make sure your seasonings and sauces are fresh to enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Wings: Choose wings that are plump and have a good amount of skin for optimal crispiness. Avoid wings that appear freezer burned or discolored, as these can affect the flavor.
  • Brown Sugar: Using dark brown sugar adds a rich molasses flavor to the glaze. If you only have light brown sugar, it can work too, but the flavor will be slightly less intense.
  • Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you are watching your salt intake. This way, you can control the saltiness of the glaze without compromising on flavor.
Cooking process for Sweet Glazed Chicken Wings

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Sweet Glazed Chicken Wings is straightforward. Start by preparing the wings and making the flavorful glaze. Once the wings are coated in the glaze, baking them in the oven allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the wings cook evenly.

Achieving perfect results involves careful attention to time and temperature. By following the steps precisely and turning the wings halfway through baking, you ensure they are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Key Technique for Perfect Sweet Glazed Chicken Wings

The most important technique for these wings is the balance of heat and time. Baking at a high temperature helps render the fat and crisps the skin while allowing the glaze to caramelize. Keeping an eye on them during cooking ensures they don't burn while still achieving that perfect golden-brown finish.

Sweet Glazed Chicken Wings

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup brown sugar
    Packed
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
    Low sodium preferred
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken wings
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    Freshly ground preferred
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
    Adjust to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Start by washing the chicken wings thoroughly and patting them dry with paper towels.

  2. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the wings cook evenly.

  3. Make the Glaze

    In a bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and apple cider vinegar.

  4. Coat the Wings

    Toss the chicken wings in the glaze until they are fully coated.

  5. Prepare Baking Sheet

    Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the wings in a single layer.

  6. Bake the Wings

    Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, turning the wings halfway through.

  7. Garnish

    Once cooked, remove the wings from the oven and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

  8. Serve

    Serve hot and enjoy your delicious sweet glazed chicken wings!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Sweet Glazed Chicken Wings, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. If you want to store them longer, consider freezing them.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Sweet Glazed Chicken Wings with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. They pair well with fresh vegetables like celery and carrots.

Recipe Variations

You can easily customize this recipe by adding different spices or using a different sweetener like maple syrup. For a spicier version, add chili sauce or sriracha to the glaze.