Sticky Baked Wings

When it comes to game day snacks or a casual dinner, nothing quite hits the spot like a plate of sticky baked wings. These wings are coated in a sweet and spicy glaze made from apricot preserves, sriracha, and a touch of soy sauce, making for a mouthwatering combination that is sure to impress your family and friends. The beauty of these wings lies in their simplicity; they are baked to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior while retaining tender, juicy meat inside. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Sticky baked wings are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons. Firstly, they have a deliciously sticky glaze that combines sweetness and heat, appealing to a broad range of tastes. Secondly, wings are incredibly versatile; they can be served as an appetizer, a main dish, or a finger food for parties. Additionally, they can easily be customized to suit different flavor profiles, making them perfect for gatherings of all kinds. Finally, they are a simple recipe that allows for a bit of fun in the kitchen – who doesn’t love getting their hands a bit messy with finger-licking good wings?

What Goes In

To create these sticky baked wings, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup apricot preserves or jam – Look for a fruit juice-sweetened option, like Polaner All Fruit Apricot Spread, for a healthier choice.
• 2 tablespoons sriracha hot sauce – Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
• 2 tablespoons lite soy sauce – Use low-sodium for a healthier alternative.
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil or melted coconut oil – Both options will add a nice richness to the wings.
• 2 pounds chicken wings – You can use whole wings, but make sure to separate them at the joint and cut off the wingtips for wings and drumettes.

Gear Checklist

Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have the following gear on hand:

• Large mixing bowl – For mixing the glaze and coating the wings.
• Baking sheet – To roast the wings, preferably lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot pans!
• Meat thermometer – To ensure your wings are cooked to perfection.

Cooking Sticky Baked Wings: The Process

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that crispy skin we all crave.

Step 2: Prepare the Wings

If using whole wings, separate them at the joint and remove the wingtips. Pat the wings dry with paper towels to help them crisp up during baking.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

In a large mixing bowl, combine the apricot preserves, sriracha hot sauce, lite soy sauce, and olive oil. Stir until well combined, and set aside a quarter of the glaze for later use.

Step 4: Coat the Wings

Add the chicken wings to the bowl with the glaze and toss until they are evenly coated. Ensure each wing is well covered for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the wings in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded, as this will prevent them from getting crispy.

Step 6: Bake the Wings

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through the cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 7: Glaze Again

During the last 5-10 minutes of baking, brush the reserved glaze over the wings for an extra layer of flavor. This will create an even stickier coating.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the wings from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, and enjoy the delicious sticky baked wings!

Dietary Customizations

If you’re looking to customize this recipe for dietary preferences, consider the following options:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this dish gluten-free.
• Vegan: Substitute chicken wings with cauliflower florets or tempeh for a plant-based version.
• Lower Sugar: Opt for a no-sugar-added apricot spread to reduce the sugar content.
• Spicier: Add more sriracha or include red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

While making sticky baked wings is straightforward, here are some things to keep in mind to ensure your wings come out perfectly:

• Don’t skip drying the wings! Patting them dry is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
• Make sure to flip the wings halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Watch the wings closely during the last few minutes of baking, as they can go from perfectly caramelized to burnt quickly.
• Let the wings cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the sticky glaze to set slightly.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you find yourself with leftover sticky baked wings, you’re in luck! They make for excellent leftovers. Here are some tips:

Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This will help retain their crispiness. You can also add a little extra glaze during reheating for added flavor.

For meal prep, consider making a double batch of these wings. They can be portioned out and stored in the freezer for later use. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described above.

Sticky Baked Wings Q&A

Can I use frozen wings for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen wings. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating with the glaze.

What can I serve with sticky baked wings?

These wings pair perfectly with a variety of sides such as carrot and celery sticks, a fresh salad, or even some crispy fries. Don’t forget the dipping sauces!

How can I make these wings spicier?

If you prefer a spicier wing, increase the amount of sriracha or add some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze.

Can I grill these wings instead of baking them?

Absolutely! You can grill the wings over medium heat for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the glaze during the last few minutes of cooking.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed making sticky baked wings, here are some more delicious recipes to try:

• Buttery Garlic Parmesan Wings
• Oven Baked Chicken Wings
• Baked Sweet Potato Fries
• Easy Chicken Tenders

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have the ultimate recipe for sticky baked wings, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! These wings will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household. Whether for a game day gathering or a cozy family dinner, the combination of sweet and spicy flavors will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Remember to share your creations and let the sticky goodness shine! Enjoy your culinary adventure!