Go Back

Southern Sticky Honey-Glazed Wings

Sweet, sticky, and savory honey-glazed chicken wings with a hint of spice—perfect for parties, game days, or a delicious weeknight treat.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Wings
  • 2 lb chicken wings
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika adds smoky warmth
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp oil helps wings crisp
For the Glaze
  • 1/3 cup honey star of sweetness and stickiness
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce adds savory umami balance
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar deepens caramel flavor
  • 1 tbsp ketchup tangy tomato kick
  • 1 tbsp butter for richness and smoothness
  • 1 tsp chili flakes optional for gentle southern heat

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Small saucepan

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C) to ensure crispy wings without drying out.
  2. Step 2: In a bowl, season chicken wings with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oil. Coat evenly.
  3. Step 3: Arrange wings in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 35–45 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.
  4. Step 4: While wings bake, melt butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, and chili flakes if using. Simmer gently for about 3 minutes until glaze thickens and shines.
  5. Step 5: Toss baked wings in the glaze to coat each piece thoroughly.
  6. Step 6: Return glazed wings to the oven for another 5–7 minutes to caramelize the glaze and achieve sticky finish.
  7. Step 7: Remove, let cool slightly, and serve hot for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use drumettes or boneless chicken bites as alternatives. Substitute maple syrup or agave nectar for honey. Use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free soy sauce options. Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat. Fresh thyme or rosemary can be added before baking for aroma. For smoky flavor, add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the glaze. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer to retain crispiness; avoid microwaving.