Honey Buffalo Wings Recipe

These irresistible Honey Buffalo Wings are the perfect combination of crispy, golden chicken wings coated in a sweet and spicy homemade sauce. Made with a blend of Frank’s Buffalo sauce, honey, and butter, this recipe delivers the ultimate balance of heat and sweetness. Perfect for game day, parties, or as a flavorful appetizer, these wings are baked to crispy perfection without the mess of frying.

Whether you prefer mild or spicy, this recipe can be easily customized by adjusting the level of heat. Serve these wings with your favorite dipping sauce and a side of crunchy vegetables for a complete meal. Quick and easy to prepare, these Honey Buffalo Wings are a crowd-pleasing favorite everyone will love.

Ingredients:

For the Wings:

• 16 chicken wings
• 1 ¾ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme

For the Honey Buffalo Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons Frank’s Buffalo sauce
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:

For the Wings:

1. Preheat your oven to 420°F (215°C) and line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place a baking rack on top.
2. Wash the chicken wings thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. In a large bowl, combine the baking powder, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Toss the wings in the seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated.
4. Arrange the wings on the baking rack, ensuring there’s space between each wing so that the skin crisps up as it cooks.
5. Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.

For the Honey Buffalo Sauce:

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the Buffalo sauce, honey, and salt, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
3. Slowly add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering sauce, stirring occasionally, and continue simmering for about 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. To coat the wings, dip them two at a time into the Honey Buffalo Sauce, ensuring they are well covered, and return them to the baking rack.
5. Let the wings set for 5 minutes so the sauce can adhere to the wings. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Honey Buffalo Wings offer the perfect balance of heat and sweetness. The crispy skin from the baking method and the rich, sticky sauce create a mouthwatering combination that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving them for a game day, party, or a family dinner, these wings are a crowd favorite. The homemade sauce is customizable to your preferred spice level, making them suitable for all tastes.

Tips

• Dry Wings for Extra Crispiness: Pat the wings completely dry before seasoning. This ensures they crisp up nicely in the oven.
• Don’t Skip the Baking Rack: The baking rack allows air circulation around the wings, promoting even crisping without the need for frying.
• Make-Ahead: You can prep the wings and sauce ahead of time. Simply store the wings and sauce separately, and bake the wings just before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

• Heat Level: Adjust the spiciness of the sauce by using more or less Frank’s Buffalo sauce or adding cayenne pepper.
• Different Sauces: If you’re not a fan of Buffalo sauce, you can substitute with barbecue sauce or a honey mustard sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Air Fryer Option: For a quicker and even crispier result, use an air fryer to cook the wings at 375°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure that your Buffalo sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free if you’re following a gluten-free diet.

FAQs

Q: How do I make the wings extra crispy? A: Ensure the wings are as dry as possible before seasoning. Using baking powder also helps achieve an extra crispy texture. Avoid overcrowding the baking rack to allow the air to circulate.

Q: Can I make the Honey Buffalo Sauce ahead of time? A: Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat before using.

Q: Can I bake frozen wings? A: Yes! If you’re using frozen wings, increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes, and make sure the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these wings with a side of celery and carrot sticks, along with a creamy dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese.
• Pair with a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad or a tangy slaw for a complete meal.
• Enjoy as a snack for game night or a party appetizer, and consider serving with a cold beer or soda for a fun treat.

These Honey Buffalo Wings are sure to become a favorite for any occasion, combining a crispy texture with the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors!