Sweet & Spicy Sriracha Baked Chicken Wings

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Introduction

When it comes to chicken wings, everyone has their favorite flavor. But if you’re looking to elevate your wing game with a mouthwatering fusion of heat and sweetness, then Sweet & Spicy Sriracha Baked Chicken Wings are exactly what you need. These wings are coated in a perfect balance of spicy sriracha sauce, honey, and tangy ingredients, then baked to crispy perfection. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, enjoying a casual meal with family, or craving a savory snack, these wings are sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll walk you through why Sweet & Spicy Sriracha Baked Chicken Wings are the perfect addition to your wing repertoire, provide easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions on how to prepare them, and share tips and variations to customize this dish to your taste. From the crispy texture to the perfect combination of sweet and spicy flavors, these wings will quickly become your new favorite recipe.

Why You’ll Love These Wings

• Bold and Flavorful: The combination of sriracha heat and sweet honey creates a dynamic flavor that is both fiery and rich, making every bite a new experience.
• Crispy Without Frying: Baking the wings ensures a crispy exterior without the mess and added calories of deep frying.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a wing sauce that’s bursting with flavor, making this recipe both simple and satisfying.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a party, serving up a casual dinner, or craving a snack, these wings will always be a hit with guests.
• Customizable Heat Level: The amount of sriracha in the sauce can be adjusted to make the wings as spicy as you like, allowing you to tailor them to your taste.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (10 minutes for prep, 1 hour for baking)
• Servings: This recipe makes approximately 4 servings, depending on the number of wings and the portion size.
• Nutrition Facts (per serving):
  • Calories: 450
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbs: 18g
  • Fat: 30g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Wings:

• 12-16 chicken wings: Fresh or thawed wings work best for this recipe.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: To coat the wings before baking for extra crispiness.
• ½ teaspoon salt: For seasoning the wings before baking.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: For seasoning the wings before baking.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: To add flavor to the chicken wings.

For the Sweet & Spicy Sriracha Sauce:

• ¼ cup sriracha sauce: The star of the show, providing the signature spicy kick.
• ¼ cup honey: Adds sweetness to balance the heat of the sriracha.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds umami depth and saltiness to the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Brings a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness and spice.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness and adds a slight caramel flavor.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty, fragrant flavor to the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: For an extra punch of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger: Provides a warm, aromatic spice that complements the heat of the sriracha.
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For an extra kick of heat, if desired.

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped green onions: For a fresh, mild crunch.
• Toasted sesame seeds: For an extra touch of flavor and texture.
• Cilantro leaves: For a fresh, aromatic garnish that complements the sauce.

Step-by-Step Preparation

FIRST STEP: PREPARE THE CHICKEN WINGS

1. Prep the Wings: Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is essential for achieving crispy skin, as excess moisture can prevent the wings from getting crispy in the oven.
2. Season the Wings: In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure the wings are evenly coated with the seasonings. The oil will help the wings crisp up as they bake.
3. Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet (this helps air circulate around the wings for even crisping). Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
4. Bake the Wings: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the wings for 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and become golden and crispy. If you want extra crispiness, broil the wings for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time.

SECOND STEP: MAKE THE SWEET & SPICY SRIRACHA SAUCE

1. Combine the Ingredients: While the wings are baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sriracha sauce, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste the sauce and adjust the flavor to your liking. You can add more honey for sweetness or more sriracha for heat, depending on your preference.
3. Set Aside: Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat and set it aside.

THIRD STEP: COAT THE BAKED WINGS WITH SAUCE

1. Coat the Wings: When the wings are done baking and have reached a golden, crispy state, remove them from the oven. Transfer the wings to a large mixing bowl and pour the sweet and spicy sriracha sauce over them.
2. Toss to Coat: Toss the wings gently in the sauce until they are fully coated. Be sure to coat every wing evenly, so each one gets a delicious layer of the sweet and spicy glaze.

FOURTH STEP: FINISH AND SERVE

1. Serve: Once the wings are coated, transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and cilantro leaves for a pop of color and added flavor.
2. Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy, flavorful, sweet, and spicy wings with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese.

How to Serve Sweet & Spicy Sriracha Baked Chicken Wings

Sweet & Spicy Sriracha Baked Chicken Wings are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit different occasions. Here are some serving ideas:

1. Game Day Snacks

These wings are the perfect addition to any game day spread. Their bold flavor and crispy texture make them an ideal choice to share with friends while watching the game.

2. Serve with a Cool Dip

Pair these spicy wings with a cooling dip, like ranch or blue cheese dressing, to balance out the heat. The creamy dip will provide a delicious contrast to the fiery wings.

3. As Part of a Party Platter

Make a platter with these wings, along with other appetizers like sliders, fries, and fresh veggies, for a fun and satisfying meal at a party or family gathering.

4. Pair with Beer or Wine

The spicy, tangy wings pair beautifully with a cold beer, such as a pale ale or lager. If you prefer wine, go for a slightly sweet white wine like a Riesling to complement the heat and sweetness of the wings.

5. Make a Meal

Serve these wings as the main course with a side of rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal.

Additional Tips

1. For Extra Crispy Wings:

To ensure your wings are extra crispy, place them on a wire rack while baking. This allows the heat to circulate evenly around the wings, making them crispier without the need for deep frying.

2. Make Ahead:

You can prep the wings and sauce ahead of time. Season the wings and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. The sauce can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.

3. Adjust the Heat Level:

If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of sriracha in the sauce or substitute it with a milder hot sauce. You can also add more honey to mellow out the heat.

4. Baking Time:

The wings are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Be sure not to overbake, as this can dry out the wings.

Recipe Variations

While the Sweet & Spicy Sriracha Baked Chicken Wings are delicious as written, there are many ways to customize this recipe:

1. Swap the Sauce Ingredients:

Experiment with different sauces like buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, or teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile. You can also try adding fresh lime juice or cilantro to give the wings a fresh twist.

2. Add a Crunchy Topping:

For an extra layer of texture, sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs or crushed peanuts over the wings before serving. The crunchiness adds a delightful contrast to the juicy wings.

3. Gluten-Free Version:

If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, ensure that the soy sauce you use is gluten-free. You can also swap regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.

4. Baked Chicken Thighs:

If you prefer using chicken thighs instead of wings, you can follow the same recipe. Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken thighs may require a slightly longer baking time to cook thoroughly.

Freezing and Storage

If you have leftovers or want to make these wings ahead of time, they freeze well:

• Storage: Place the cooled wings in an airtight container or resealable bag and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a container or bag once frozen. They will keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the wings on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the air fryer for extra crispiness.

Conclusion

Sweet & Spicy Sriracha Baked Chicken Wings are a tantalizing blend of heat, sweetness, and savory goodness. The crispy wings, coated in a flavorful sriracha sauce, make for a perfect snack, party appetizer, or main course. Whether you enjoy them with a cool dip, pair them with your favorite drink, or serve them as the centerpiece of your next gathering, these wings are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try them today and experience the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and crispy goodness in every bite.