1. Prepare and Season the Chicken Wings
Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer:
If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, and place a wire rack on top. If using an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C).
Season the Wings:
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them get crispy. In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Ensure the wings are evenly coated with the seasoning.
2. Cook the Chicken Wings
Bake or Air Fry:
Oven Method: Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
Air Fryer Method: Place the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Air fry for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the wings are crispy and cooked through.
3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
Prepare the Sauce:
While the wings are cooking, make the honey garlic sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Thicken the Sauce:
Once the sauce begins to simmer, add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to the saucepan. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the sauce from heat.
4. Coat the Chicken Wings
Toss the Wings in Sauce:
Once the wings are fully cooked and crispy, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the honey garlic sauce over the wings and toss them until they are evenly coated with the sticky sauce.
Caramelize (Optional):
For an extra sticky and caramelized finish, return the coated wings to the oven or air fryer for an additional 5-7 minutes at 425°F (220°C). This step is optional but highly recommended for maximum flavor.
5. Serve the Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Wings
Garnish and Serve:
Transfer the sticky honey garlic chicken wings to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and added flavor.
Enjoy:
Serve the wings hot, with plenty of napkins on hand! They’re perfect as an appetizer, game-day snack, or even a main course alongside your favorite sides.
Tips for Success
Dry the Wings: Patting the wings dry before seasoning helps them get crispier in the oven or air fryer.
Don’t Skip the Cornstarch Slurry: This helps thicken the sauce, giving it that perfect sticky consistency that clings to the wings.
Caramelize for Extra Flavor: If you want the wings to be extra sticky and flavorful, don’t skip the final caramelization step.
Sticky Honey Garlic Chicken Wings are a crowd-pleaser that combines the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family dinner, or just because you’re craving something delicious, these wings will always be a hit!
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