Sweet & Spicy Chicken Wing Bake

Name: Sweet & Spicy Chicken Wing Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons chili paste; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Sweet & Spicy Chicken Wing Bake for gatherings or just a cozy night in. The combination of sweetness from honey and a kick of spice from chili sauce creates a flavor explosion that everyone adores. Roasting the wings allows the skin to get perfectly crispy, while the meat stays juicy and tender. Every bite is a delightful balance of heat and sweetness, making it a crowd favorite in our house. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to dish for any occasion!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-17T15:12:27.455Z

Making Sweet & Spicy Chicken Wing Bake is an adventure that I truly relish. I've spent quite some time perfecting the ideal blend of sweet and spicy, and I've found that mixing honey, soy sauce, and chili paste gives the wings a memorable glaze. The secret to achieving that coveted crispy skin lies in roasting them on a wire rack over a baking sheet, allowing the hot air to circulate around the wings for even cooking.

One of my favorite tips is to marinate the wings for at least an hour, or even overnight if time permits. This not only enhances the flavor but also tenderizes the meat, resulting in a dish that is always a hit. Whether it's game day or a backyard barbecue, these wings never fail to impress!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Perfectly balanced sweet and spicy flavor combination
Crispy skin that contrasts with juicy, tender meat
Ideal for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in

      

The Role of Marinade

Marinating the chicken wings is a crucial step that significantly enhances their flavor. The combination of honey and soy sauce not only adds sweetness and umami but also helps tenderize the meat. Aim to marinate for a minimum of one hour, but if you can let them soak overnight, the wings will absorb even more flavor, giving you a deep, savory richness. When you're ready to bake, the aroma of the marinade will be irresistible, hinting at the deliciousness to come.

Be sure to toss the wings in the marinade thoroughly. I often use tongs to ensure every wing is well-coated and benefits from the sweet and spicy blend. If you notice any excess marinade, you can brush it over the wings before baking to heighten the flavor.

Perfecting Crispy Wings

For perfectly crispy skin, using a wire rack to bake the wings is essential. This allows hot air to circulate around the wings, promoting even cooking and crispiness on all sides. If you don’t have a wire rack, placing the wings directly on a lined baking sheet works too, but keep an eye on them as they may need flipping midway through baking to achieve that golden-brown color. You’ll want to bake the wings until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), which usually takes about 40-45 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

To check for doneness while ensuring they remain crispy, you can turn on the broiler for the last few minutes. This adds a beautifully charred finish, but watch closely to prevent burning. If you like extra spice, you can sprinkle additional chili powder or hot sauce over the wings after broiling for an added kick.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Wings

2 pounds chicken wings
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons chili paste
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, chili paste, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.

Marinate the Wings

Add the chicken wings to the marinade, ensuring each wing is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.

Bake the Wings

Arrange the marinated wings on the wire rack in a single layer. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until wings are crispy and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips

For extra crispy wings, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store the wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the crispy texture, consider reheating in the oven instead of the microwave. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, which will also help restore some of that crispiness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the wings after baking. Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to experiment with different ingredients in your marinade to suit your taste. For a tangy twist, consider adding a splash of pineapple juice or using maple syrup instead of honey for a unique flavor profile. If you love heat, incorporating Sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper can elevate the spice level without compromising the overall balance.

These wings pair fantastically with a variety of dipping sauces. Try serving them with a cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat. Additionally, complement the dish with sides like celery sticks or a refreshing coleslaw for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

→ What can I substitute for chili paste?

You can use sriracha or even a combination of hot sauce and a little sugar for a similar effect.

→ How do I know when the wings are done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C), and they should be crispy and golden brown.

→ Can I make these wings in advance?

Yes! You can marinate them a day ahead and bake them just before serving.