Honey Garlic Chicken Wings

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Crispy Chicken Wings:

• 1 kg (2 lbs) chicken wings (split into drumettes and flats)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (adds flavor and color)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (secret to crispiness!)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (extra crunch)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for tossing)

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced (use fresh for maximum flavor)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
• ¼ cup honey
• ¼ cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (adds umami, optional but recommended)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (balances the sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Wings for Maximum Crispiness

1. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Moisture prevents crispiness.
2. In a bowl, toss the wings with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, baking powder, and cornstarch.
3. Add vegetable oil and mix well to coat evenly.

2. Bake or Air-Fry for Perfect Crispiness

• Oven Method:
  1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
  2. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top (this allows airflow).
  3. Arrange wings skin-side up and bake for 40 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Air-Fryer Method:
  1. Preheat air fryer to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Arrange wings in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
  3. Air-fry for 18-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

3. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

1. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in honey, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and rice vinegar.
4. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch + water, then add to the sauce.
5. Simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly thickened.

4. Coat the Wings & Serve

1. Toss crispy wings in the warm honey garlic sauce until fully coated.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Honey Garlic Chicken Wings:

✔ Baking powder + cornstarch combo – This makes the wings super crispy!
✔ Let the sauce thicken slightly before tossing to keep the wings from getting soggy.
✔ For extra crispiness, bake/air-fry an additional 5 minutes after coating them lightly with sauce.
✔ Want extra heat? Add ½ teaspoon chili powder or drizzle with sriracha.