The Ultimate Guide to Irresistible Grilled Honey Garlic Chicken Wings: Sticky, Sweet & Savory Perfection
Welcome to the world of truly exceptional chicken wings! These grilled honey garlic chicken wings are the ultimate blend of sticky, sweet, and savory goodness that will have everyone reaching for more. Each wing is perfectly grilled until its skin achieves an irresistible crispness and slight caramelization, before being generously tossed in a luscious, glossy honey garlic sauce. This sauce is a masterpiece of flavors – intensely garlicky, perfectly balanced with a touch of sweetness, and just spicy enough to keep things exciting, making every bite utterly irresistible. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner, hosting a lively game day party, or firing up the grill for a backyard BBQ, these wings are guaranteed to be the star of the show.
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About These Sticky-Sweet Honey Garlic Chicken Wings
As a true wing enthusiast, I believe chicken wings should never be anything less than spectacular. Forget bland and greasy; my philosophy for perfect wings focuses on achieving a balance of incredible texture and bold flavor. These honey garlic chicken wings exemplify that philosophy. They are carefully grilled until the skin reaches an optimal level of crispness, becoming beautifully caramelized and infused with a subtle smoky aroma. This grilling process locks in the juices, ensuring each bite is succulent on the inside and satisfyingly crunchy on the outside.
The magic truly happens when these perfectly grilled wings are tossed in our signature rich, glossy sauce. Crafted from a harmonious blend of golden honey, umami-rich soy sauce, pungent fresh garlic, and zesty grated ginger, this sauce transforms the wings into an unforgettable culinary experience. Every mouthful delivers a symphony of flavors: the delightful sweetness of honey, the savory depth of soy, the aromatic kick of garlic and ginger, and that undeniable smoky undertone from the grill. It’s a taste profile that keeps you coming back for more.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with countless wing cooking methods – baking, frying, smoking, and air frying. While each has its merits, I’ve found that grilling consistently produces the crispiest skin and the most robust, complex flavor. Unlike oven-baking or air frying, grilling offers direct heat that renders the fat, resulting in incredibly crispy skin, while also imparting a distinct smokiness and char that is truly addictive. It’s often quicker than other methods, and the smoky element is simply unparalleled.
This versatile honey garlic chicken wing recipe is perfect for virtually any occasion. They make an outstanding appetizer or main dish for game day gatherings, a delicious and easy option for weeknight dinners, or the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any backyard BBQ. Prepare to impress your family and friends with these perfectly executed, sticky, sweet, and savory wings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I’ve dedicated years to perfecting this recipe (and trust me, no one ever complains about having more wings to taste-test!), and I can confidently say that this version consistently delivers that elusive, perfect sticky glaze every single time. Here are just a few reasons why these Honey Garlic Chicken Wings will become your new favorite:
- Grilled to Perfection, Not Fried: Say goodbye to excess oil and messy frying. By grilling these chicken wings, you get incredibly crispy skin with a delicious smoky char, all while making cleanup a breeze. It’s a healthier approach that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.
- Effortless, Irresistible Sauce: The sticky honey garlic sauce is a culinary triumph, crafted from simple pantry staples you likely already have on hand. It comes together quickly on the stovetop, transforming into a thick, glossy glaze that clings beautifully to every wing, ensuring a burst of sweet and savory flavor with each bite.
- No Marinating Required: Who has time for extensive marinating? This recipe is designed for convenience. Simply season your wings, throw them on the grill, and then toss them in the freshly made sauce. You’ll achieve maximum flavor without the extra planning or waiting.
- Scales Up Easily for Any Crowd: Hosting a big party or a small family dinner? This recipe is incredibly adaptable. It’s easy to double or even triple the ingredients to feed a large gathering, making it your go-to recipe for entertaining. You’ll always have enough of these crowd-pleasing wings to go around.
- Addictive Flavor Profile: The harmonious balance of sweet honey, savory soy, pungent garlic, and a hint of spicy red pepper flakes creates a truly addictive flavor that appeals to almost everyone. It’s a classic combination that never disappoints and always leaves you craving one more wing.
Essential Ingredients for Honey Garlic Wings
Crafting truly delicious honey garlic chicken wings starts with selecting high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with tips for making the best choices:
- Chicken Wings: The star of our show! You can use pre-cut wingettes and drumettes, full wings that you split yourself, or even just drumettes – whatever you prefer and can easily find. The most crucial step for crispy skin is to thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels before applying any seasoning. This removes excess moisture, allowing the skin to crisp up beautifully and the seasoning to adhere better during grilling. Aim for about 2.5 pounds for a standard serving for 4-6 people.
- Spices: Our simple yet effective seasoning blend is key to building flavor from the inside out.
- Kosher Salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and balancing the sweetness of the honey.
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and aromatic depth that complements the other spices.
- Garlic Powder: Provides a foundational layer of garlic flavor that permeates the chicken, working in harmony with the fresh garlic in the sauce.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: These add a gentle kick of heat that prevents the sauce from being overly sweet. You can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference, from a mere hint to a more fiery bite.
- Honey: This is the cornerstone of our sticky glaze, providing natural sweetness and that characteristic glossy finish. Use your favorite high-quality honey – local varieties often offer unique flavor nuances. Experimenting with different floral honeys, like clover, orange blossom, or even buckwheat, can subtly change the flavor profile of your sauce, offering a personalized touch.
- Soy Sauce: The savory, umami-rich component that balances the honey. We recommend using low-sodium soy sauce to better control the overall saltiness of the dish, allowing you to add salt to taste. For those requiring a gluten-free option, tamari or coconut aminos are excellent substitutes that deliver similar depth of flavor.
- Fresh Garlic Cloves: Absolutely non-negotiable for the best sauce! Minced fresh garlic delivers a pungent, aromatic, and vibrant flavor that garlic powder simply cannot replicate. Aim for about 4 large cloves, or more if you’re a true garlic lover.
- Grated Ginger: Just like garlic, fresh ginger is paramount. Grated ginger provides a warm, spicy, and citrusy aroma that brightens the entire sauce and adds an authentic Asian-inspired complexity. A microplane grater makes quick work of this task.
- Corn Starch: This is our secret weapon for achieving that perfectly thick, glossy, and clingy sauce. Mixed with a little water to create a slurry, it transforms the liquid sauce into a beautiful glaze. If you prefer, tapioca flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative with similar thickening properties.
This Recipe’s Must-Have Kitchen Tools
Having the right tools can make all the difference in ensuring your honey garlic chicken wings turn out perfectly crisp and saucy. Here are the essential items that will streamline your cooking process:
- Traeger Grill or High-Quality Grill: If you’re passionate about grilling, a Traeger grill (or any grill that offers precise temperature control and can achieve both high heat and potentially smoky flavors) is ideal. The controlled heat ensures even cooking, while the ability to manage smoke adds an extra layer of delicious flavor to your wings. Ensure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking and allow for those coveted grill marks.
- Sturdy Tongs: A good pair of long-handled, sturdy tongs is indispensable for safely flipping the wings on a hot grill. They allow you to handle the chicken without piercing the skin (which can release juices and make the skin less crispy) and keep your hands away from the heat.
- Large Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Two): You’ll want a set of durable stainless steel mixing bowls. Use one large bowl for tossing your raw chicken wings with the seasoning mix before they go on the grill. The second, clean large bowl will be used later for coating the grilled wings in the sticky honey garlic sauce. This prevents cross-contamination and ensures your sauce remains pristine.
- Small Saucepan: A small, heavy-bottomed saucepan is perfect for simmering your honey garlic sauce. Its size allows for better control over the thickening process, ensuring the sauce reduces and becomes glossy without burning. A non-stick option can make cleanup even easier.
- Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: While not strictly listed in the original ‘must-haves’, an instant-read meat thermometer is truly essential for food safety and achieving perfectly cooked wings. It removes all guesswork, ensuring your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without becoming dry or overcooked. Insert it into the thickest part of the wing, avoiding the bone, for an accurate reading.
Here’s How to Master These Honey Garlic Chicken Wings
Follow these straightforward steps to create perfectly crispy, sticky, and flavorful honey garlic chicken wings every time. Precision and attention to detail will ensure a delicious outcome!
1. Preheat the Grill
Begin by heating your grill to a high temperature, aiming for approximately 400˚F (200˚C). A hot grill is essential for getting that initial sear and crisp on the chicken skin. Once heated, lightly oil the grates. This crucial step prevents the chicken from sticking and helps achieve those beautiful grill marks. You can use a paper towel dipped in high-smoke-point oil (like canola or grapeseed) and held with tongs to lightly coat the grates.
2. Dry the Chicken Wings
This is arguably the most important step for achieving truly crispy wings. Using paper towels, thoroughly pat the chicken wings dry on all sides. Remove as much surface moisture as possible. Excess moisture creates steam, which will prevent the skin from crisping up and instead lead to a rubbery texture. Don’t skip this step!
3. Season Generously
Transfer the dried chicken wings to a large mixing bowl. Add the kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Toss the wings vigorously until each piece is evenly coated with the seasoning blend. Don’t be shy; ensure the spices are well-distributed, as this foundational seasoning will enhance the overall flavor of the finished wings.
4. Grill to Perfection
Carefully place the seasoned wings directly on the preheated, oiled grill grates. Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the grill, which can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Close the grill lid and cook for approximately 30 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through to ensure even cooking and crispness on both sides. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; the wings are done when they register 165˚F (74˚C) in the thickest part of the meat, away from the bone. They should have a beautiful golden-brown, crispy exterior.
5. Simmer the Sauce
While the wings are grilling, prepare your irresistible honey garlic sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced fresh garlic, grated fresh ginger, corn starch (or tapioca flour), and the remaining crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to your preferred spice level). Whisk everything together until the corn starch is fully dissolved. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should visibly thicken and achieve a glossy consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Allow the sauce to cool for a minute or two after removing it from the heat; it will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
6. Toss and Serve
Once the wings are cooked through and crispy, remove them from the grill and immediately transfer them to a clean large mixing bowl. Pour the freshly prepared, warm honey garlic sauce over the wings. Using your tongs, toss the wings gently but thoroughly until every single piece is completely coated in the glorious sticky sauce. The goal is to get an even, shiny glaze on all surfaces.
For an extra touch of visual appeal and flavor, sprinkle the sauced wings with sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onions or chopped fresh parsley just before serving. Serve these mouthwatering honey garlic chicken wings immediately while they are hot and the sauce is still perfectly sticky. Get ready for rave reviews!
Expert Tips for Honey Garlic Wing Success
Achieving the perfect grilled honey garlic chicken wings involves a few key techniques. Keep these expert tips in mind to ensure your wings are crispy, flavorful, and truly irresistible:
- Thoroughly Dry Your Wings: This cannot be stressed enough. Patting your chicken wings completely dry with paper towels before seasoning and grilling is the single most important step for maximum crispiness. Any lingering moisture will create steam on the grill, preventing the skin from rendering properly and crisping up, resulting in a soggy texture that really ruins the experience.
- Utilize a Meat Thermometer: Don’t guess if your wings are cooked through. For food safety and optimal texture, always use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of a wing, avoiding the bone, to confirm it has reached an internal temperature of 165˚F (74˚C). This ensures they are perfectly cooked and juicy, not undercooked or dry.
- Toss Wings in Sauce Off the Heat: Once your wings are perfectly grilled, remove them from the heat before tossing them in the warm honey garlic sauce. Honey and sugar-based sauces can burn very quickly over direct heat, leading to a bitter taste. Tossing them off the grill allows the sauce to coat beautifully and adhere without scorching.
- Adjust the Heat Level to Your Liking: The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. If you prefer more spice, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in both the dry rub and the honey garlic sauce. For a milder version, you can reduce or even omit the red pepper flakes entirely. Feel free to experiment with a dash of cayenne pepper or a squirt of sriracha in the sauce for an extra kick.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: When placing your wings on the grill, ensure they are in a single layer with a little space between each wing. Overcrowding the grill can significantly lower the grate temperature, leading to uneven cooking and less crispy skin. Cook in batches if necessary, to maintain consistent heat and achieve the best results.
Flavor Variations to Elevate Your Honey Garlic Wings
While the classic honey garlic flavor is undoubtedly a crowd-pleaser, these wings serve as a fantastic canvas for culinary creativity. Don’t hesitate to experiment with these delicious variations to customize your next batch:
- For a Smoky Twist: Infuse your wings with an extra layer of depth by adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of chipotle powder to the initial seasoning mix. These spices will enhance the natural smoky notes from the grill and add a delightful, earthy complexity to the finished dish.
- Brighten Things Up with Citrus: If you’re looking to cut through the richness and add a vibrant, fresh element, stir in a bit of freshly grated orange or lime zest (about 1-2 teaspoons) to the honey garlic sauce during the last few minutes of simmering. That subtle burst of citrus provides a tangy counterpoint that really elevates the flavor profile.
- Turn Up the Heat: For those who crave more spice, it’s easy to kick up the heat! Mix in a spoonful of sriracha, gochujang (Korean chili paste), or even a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the honey garlic sauce. Start with a small amount and taste, adding more until you reach your desired level of fiery deliciousness.
- Deepen the Umami Notes: To add an even richer, more savory depth to your sauce, incorporate a splash of rice vinegar (about 1 tablespoon) or a teaspoon of toasted sesame oil at the end of the simmering process. Rice vinegar offers a subtle tang, while sesame oil brings a nutty, aromatic finish that complements the Asian-inspired flavors beautifully.
- No Grill? No Problem! (Baking Method): If you don’t have access to a grill, you can still enjoy these amazing wings. Arrange the seasoned chicken wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (for easier cleanup) or a wire rack set over a baking sheet (for maximum crispiness). Bake them in a preheated 425˚F (220˚C) oven for 40–45 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once baked, simply toss them in the prepared honey garlic sauce as directed.
- No Grill? No Problem! (Air Fryer Method): For a super-crispy, quick option without a grill, air frying is a fantastic alternative. Place the seasoned wings in a single layer in your air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it (cook in batches if necessary). Air fry at 375˚F (190˚C) for about 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the wings halfway through, until they are golden and crispy. Then, toss them immediately with the warm sauce.
More Wings to Enjoy: Crispy Korean BBQ Chicken Wings I Hot Honey Whiskey Wings IGrilled Honey Sriracha Wings I Smoked Chicken Wings
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are answers to some common questions about making these delectable honey garlic chicken wings:
Can I use an air fryer instead of a grill?
Absolutely! The air fryer is an excellent alternative for achieving crispy wings without a grill or deep frying. To air fry these garlic chicken wings, first, ensure your wings are well-dried and seasoned as directed. Then, cook them in your air fryer at 375˚F (190˚C) for approximately 20 to 25 minutes. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary, allowing enough space for air to circulate, which is key for crispiness. Flip the wings halfway through the cooking time for even browning. Once they are golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165˚F / 74˚C), proceed to toss them in the prepared honey garlic sauce.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the honey garlic sauce in advance is a fantastic time-saving tip! You can make the sauce up to 5 days ahead of time. Simply prepare it according to the instructions, let it cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use it, gently reheat the sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, until it’s warm and pourable again. If it has thickened too much in the fridge, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth to reach the desired consistency.
Why is my sauce too thin?
If your honey garlic sauce is too thin, it likely didn’t simmer long enough to properly activate the corn starch and reduce sufficiently. The corn starch needs adequate heat and time to thicken. To fix this, simply return the sauce to the stovetop over medium-low heat and continue to simmer, stirring frequently. Let it reduce until it reaches a thick, glossy consistency that clings beautifully to the back of a spoon. Be patient, as it can take a few extra minutes, but the result will be a perfectly coated wing.
Can I make honey garlic wings in advance?
You certainly can prepare the wings ahead of time to make meal prep easier! For the best results, grill the wings completely but do not toss them in the sauce. Allow the cooked wings to cool completely to room temperature. Then, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet in a 375°F (190°C) oven until they are warmed through and crispy again, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes. While the wings are reheating, gently warm your pre-made honey garlic sauce. Toss the hot wings with the warm sauce just before serving to maintain that perfect sticky glaze and crispy texture.
Need more snack ideas? Check out my appetizer page for more inspiration.
What to Serve with These Honey Garlic Chicken Wings
These incredibly flavorful grilled honey garlic chicken wings are versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or as the star of a casual meal. Here are some fantastic pairing ideas to complete your spread:
- Crunchy Veggies and Dips: A classic pairing! Offer crisp crudités like carrot sticks, celery sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips. Serve them with a cooling dip like creamy ranch, tangy blue cheese dressing, or a simple sour cream or Greek yogurt dip to balance the sweetness and spice of the wings.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, refreshing green salad provides a wonderful contrast to the rich wings. Opt for a simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing, or something a bit more substantial like an Asian-inspired slaw with a sesame-ginger dressing.
- Hearty Sides: To turn these wings into a full meal, consider serving them alongside substantial sides. Crispy roasted potatoes, golden French fries, or even a classic potato salad are always winners. For a lighter touch, a fluffy bed of jasmine rice or some stir-fried noodles would complement the Asian-inspired sauce beautifully.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, creamy crunch of a good coleslaw offers a delightful textural and flavor contrast, making it a perfect accompaniment.
- Refreshing Beverages:
- Cocktails: Elevate your meal with a sophisticated drink like a sparkling whiskey sour, which offers a lovely balance of sweet and tart. For a seasonal touch, a cozy apple cider cocktail would be a delicious choice.
- Mocktails & Non-Alcoholic Options: For those preferring non-alcoholic drinks, a zesty ginger beer mocktail, classic iced tea with lemon, or sparkling water infused with lime and mint all work wonderfully to refresh the palate. Craft beers, especially lighter lagers or amber ales, also pair well with the sweet and savory flavors.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
While it’s rare to have leftovers of these addictive honey garlic chicken wings, if you do, here’s how to properly store and reheat them to enjoy later:
- Store: Allow any leftover chicken wings to cool completely to room temperature (this prevents condensation and sogginess). Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: To bring your wings back to their crispy glory, reheating in the oven or an air fryer is recommended.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). Spread the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Reheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are heated through and the skin has re-crisped to your liking.
- Air Fryer: For an even crispier finish, place the wings in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Air fry at 375˚F (190˚C) for 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway, until hot and crispy.
- Freeze: If you’re looking to save them for a longer period, cooked wings can be frozen. For best results, freeze them *without* the sauce if possible. Arrange the cooked, cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. Frozen wings will last for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake them in a preheated 375˚F (190˚C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until thoroughly heated and crispy. If you froze them sauced, they might be a bit softer. Once reheated, you can always make a fresh batch of sauce or reheat any stored sauce to toss them in.
More Delicious Ways to Use Honey in Your Cooking
If these savory-sweet honey garlic chicken wings have ignited your passion for cooking with honey, you’re in luck! Honey is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can elevate both savory and sweet dishes. Here are a few more of our favorite recipes that beautifully showcase the magic of honey:
- Honey Soy Marinade: This honey soy marinade is a go-to for adding incredible depth and flavor to a variety of proteins. It works beautifully on chicken breasts, pork tenderloin, salmon fillets, or even firm tofu. Simple to whisk together, this marinade infuses meats with a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami notes, making anything you throw on the grill or in the oven taste like it came from a gourmet kitchen. It’s a fantastic way to tenderize and flavor before cooking.
- Honey Butter Biscuits: For a delightful side that pairs wonderfully with almost any savory meal (or even as a sweet breakfast treat), these honey butter biscuits are a must-try. Quick to prepare, these biscuits boast light, fluffy layers with a hint of sweetness from the honey and the rich indulgence of butter. They’re incredibly hard to resist and a comforting addition to Sunday brunch or a family dinner.
- Hot Honey: If you love a little kick with your sweetness, our homemade hot honey recipe is an absolute game-changer. This condiment strikes the perfect balance between fiery heat and comforting sweetness. Drizzle it generously over fried chicken, pepperoni pizza, roasted root vegetables, cornbread, or even on cheese and crackers for an instant and easy flavor upgrade that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s surprisingly simple to make and incredibly versatile.
Finally, if you whip up this fantastic grilled honey garlic chicken wings recipe, please be sure to give it a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leave a comment! Your feedback is incredibly valuable, and I genuinely love hearing when you all make my recipes. I always take the time to read and respond to every single comment, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or ask any questions you might have!
Oh, and don’t forget to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! It’s truly my favorite thing to see these delicious creations come to life in your kitchens – it means the world to me!
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Honey Garlic Chicken Wings Recipe
Equipment
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Traeger grill (or any high-heat grill): Essential for achieving crispy skin and a delicious smoky flavor.
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Sturdy tongs: For safely flipping wings on the hot grill without piercing the skin.
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Two large mixing bowls: One for seasoning raw wings, one clean bowl for tossing grilled wings in sauce.
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Small saucepan: For simmering and thickening the honey garlic sauce.
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Instant-read meat thermometer: Crucial for ensuring wings are safely cooked to 165°F (74°C).
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 pounds chicken wingettes wings, or split wings (approximately 24 pieces for 6 servings), ensuring they are thawed and ready for preparation.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or sea salt), for seasoning the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper (for a warm, pungent flavor).
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (provides an initial garlic flavor base).
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for a subtle kick, adjust to taste).
- 1/2 cup honey (the primary sweet and sticky component).
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free, adds umami and saltiness).
- 4 garlic cloves minced (use fresh for the best aromatic flavor).
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons freshly grated ginger (adds a zesty, warm spice to the sauce).
- 1 Tablespoon corn starch or tapioca flour (for thickening the sauce to a perfect glaze).
- 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (to add heat and zing to the sauce, adjust according to preference).
- Sesame seeds for garnish (adds a nutty crunch and visual appeal).
- Thinly sliced green onion or fresh parsley, for garnish (provides freshness and color).
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prepare Your Grill: Preheat your grill to a high heat setting, aiming for approximately 400˚F (200˚C). Once hot, lightly oil the grates to prevent the chicken from sticking and to help achieve those desirable grill marks.
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Dry the Wings Thoroughly: Using paper towels, meticulously pat the chicken wings completely dry on all sides. This crucial step is essential for achieving ultra-crispy skin during the grilling process, as it removes excess moisture that would otherwise create steam.
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Season the Chicken: Transfer the dried wings to a large mixing bowl. Add the kosher salt, freshly cracked black pepper, garlic powder, and the initial ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Toss the wings vigorously until they are thoroughly and evenly coated with the seasoning blend.
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Grill the Wings: Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the preheated grill grates, ensuring not to overcrowd the grill. Close the lid and cook for a total of 30 minutes, carefully flipping the wings halfway through (at the 15-minute mark) to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; they should register 165˚F (74˚C) in the thickest part.
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Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce: While the wings are grilling, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, corn starch (or tapioca flour), and the remaining ¼ to ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to your heat preference) in a small saucepan. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 10 minutes until the sauce has visibly thickened and become glossy. Remove from heat and let cool for a minute; it will continue to thicken.
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Toss with Sauce: Once the wings are perfectly cooked and removed from the grill, immediately transfer them to a clean large mixing bowl. Pour the warm honey garlic sauce over the wings and toss gently but thoroughly until every wing is fully coated in the luscious, sticky glaze.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish the finished wings generously with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions or fresh herbs like parsley for a burst of freshness and visual appeal. Serve immediately while hot and sticky.
Recipe Video
Chef’s Notes
- Achieve Ultimate Crispiness: Pat wings completely dry before seasoning to help them crisp up on the grill. Removing all surface moisture is the most critical step for that satisfying crunch.
- Grill for Perfect Texture and Safety: Grill over high heat for the best texture, ensuring a crispy exterior. Always use an instant-read thermometer to confirm wings reach 165°F (74°C) internally, guaranteeing they are cooked safely and perfectly.
- Thicken Your Sauce Right: Simmer the sauce until it is thick enough to generously coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thin, continue simmering over low heat until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Prevent Sauce Burning: Always toss the grilled wings in the warm sauce after removing them from the heat. This prevents the honey and sugars in the sauce from scorching on the hot grill, which can lead to a bitter taste.