Sweet and Spicy BBQ Chicken Wings Recipe
This recipe is perfect for game day, a casual get-together, or a satisfying weeknight meal. These sweet and spicy BBQ chicken wings are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! They're easy to make, delicious, and perfect for customizing to your spice preference. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (I recommend a blend of sweet and smoky)
- Optional: 1 tbsp paprika, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for extra flavor and spice
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, salt, and pepper. If using, add the paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper at this stage for extra flavor. Make sure the wings are evenly coated.
Step 2: Bake the Chicken Wings
- Arrange the chicken wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then flip the wings and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Add the BBQ Sauce
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour your favorite BBQ sauce over the chicken wings, ensuring each wing is generously coated.
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is sticky and caramelized.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove the chicken wings from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve these delicious BBQ chicken wings with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, potato salad, or french fries.
Tips and Variations:
- For crispier wings: After baking the wings for the initial 30-25 minutes, you can broil them for the last few minutes to achieve extra crispiness. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for an extra kick.
- Sweeten it up: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup added to the BBQ sauce will enhance the sweetness.
- Grill it: These wings can also be grilled! Follow steps 1 & 2 then brush with BBQ sauce during the last 10-15 minutes of grilling time.
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