Name: Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken wings (drumettes and flats); 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1 tbsp olive oil; For the Sauce:; 1/3 cup honey or brown sugar; 1/4 cup hot sauce (e.g., sriracha or Frank’s RedHot); 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings deliver the perfect balance of heat and sweetness with a sticky glaze that clings to every bite. These wings are oven-baked or air-fried to perfection, making them ideal for game days, parties, or flavorful dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These wings are packed with flavor, featuring a crisp exterior and juicy interior coated in a tantalizing sauce. They’re easy to prepare, perfect for sharing, and can be customized to your preferred level of heat. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
Baking powder (for crispiness)
Salt and black pepper
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Olive oil

For the Sauce:

Honey or brown sugar
Hot sauce (like sriracha or Frank’s RedHot)
Soy sauce
Butter
Garlic (minced)
Red pepper flakes (optional)

directions

Prep the Wings: Pat wings dry. Toss with baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Bake or Air-Fry: Bake at 425°F for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway, or air-fry at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter, add garlic, soy sauce, honey, and hot sauce. Simmer until thickened.
Coat the Wings: Toss baked wings in the sauce until evenly coated.
Serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro or sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves 4.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add a Kick: Increase the amount of hot sauce or add chili paste.
Sweet BBQ Option: Replace hot sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Sticky Asian Style: Use hoisin and ginger for a different profile.
Low-Sugar Version: Substitute with a sugar-free sweetener or reduced honey.

storage/reheating

Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F until warm and crispy. Best not microwaved, as it may affect the texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen wings?

Yes, but thaw and pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning and cooking.

Are they very spicy?

They have moderate heat, but you can adjust by increasing or decreasing hot sauce.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, bake the wings ahead and toss in sauce just before serving.

Can I grill these wings?

Absolutely, grill over medium-high heat for 20–25 minutes, turning often.

Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, maple syrup or agave work well in place of honey.

How do I get crispy skin?

Dry wings thoroughly, coat with baking powder, and bake on a wire rack.

What dipping sauces go well?

Ranch, blue cheese, or extra hot sauce make great companions.

Can I double the sauce?

Yes, especially if you like them extra sticky or want extra for dipping.

Do I need to marinate the wings?

Not necessary, but you can marinate for more flavor if time allows.

Are they kid-friendly?

Use less hot sauce or substitute a mild version for a kid-friendly recipe.

Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings are an irresistible appetizer or main course that hits every flavor note. Easy to make and hard to resist, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite for any occasion.

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings are crispy, juicy wings coated in a sticky, flavorful glaze that balances heat and sweetness. Baked or air-fried to perfection, they’re ideal for game day, parties, or a fun dinner.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking or Air Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Pat wings dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss with baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and olive oil until evenly coated.
Arrange wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway, or air-fry for 20–25 minutes until crispy and golden.
Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in honey, hot sauce, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
Transfer cooked wings to a large bowl and toss with the sauce until fully coated.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or sesame seeds if desired.