Sticky, smoky, crispy, and totally irresistible
These BBQ Chicken Wings are baked to crispy perfection, then coated in a rich, glossy barbecue sauce that caramelizes beautifully. Easy to make and perfect for game day, parties, or a casual dinner.
Below is a clear, step-by-step recipe, with pictures placed in the middle of the article to guide you through every stage.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
🐔 Chicken Wings
- 2 lb (900 g) chicken wings (drumettes & flats)
- 1 tbsp baking powder (for crispy skin)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
🍖 BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite)
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, extra smoky)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Wings
Pat the wings completely dry with paper towels.
In a bowl, toss wings with baking powder, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Bake Until Crispy
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Arrange wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet (this lets fat drip away).
Bake 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Step 3: Make the BBQ Sauce
While wings bake, combine BBQ sauce, honey, vinegar, butter, and smoked paprika in a small saucepan.
Simmer on low 5–7 minutes, until glossy and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Sauce the Wings
Transfer baked wings to a large bowl.
Pour warm BBQ sauce over wings and toss until evenly coated.
Step 5: Caramelize
Return wings to the oven and bake 10–15 minutes more, until sauce is sticky and caramelized.
For extra char, broil 2–3 minutes (watch closely).
Step 6: Serve Hot
Remove from oven and rest 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.
⭐ Pro Tips for the Best BBQ Wings
- Dry wings = crispy wings
- Baking powder boosts browning (don’t confuse with baking soda)
- Sauce near the end prevents burning
- Smoked paprika adds true BBQ depth
🍽 Serving Ideas
- Coleslaw
- Corn on the cob
- Potato wedges or fries
- Ranch or blue cheese dip
🥄 Final Result
Crispy, juicy wings coated in a sweet-smoky BBQ glaze that clings to every bite—messy, finger-licking perfection.