Crispy Oven Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Wings
If you’re searching for crispy baked chicken wings, a sticky honey garlic chicken wings recipe, or an easy oven-baked wings recipe with soy sauce and honey glaze, this one checks all the boxes. These wings are golden, flavorful, and coated in a rich sweet-savory sauce that clings perfectly after baking.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Wings
- 30 chicken wings (split and tips removed if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Honey Garlic Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons mirin
- 1/2 cup honey
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with a little water to thicken)
For Garnish
- Sesame seeds
Directions (Step-by-Step)
1. Bake the Chicken Wings
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Pat the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels. This step is key for achieving crispy oven-baked chicken wings.
In a large bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Add wings and toss well. Drizzle with olive oil and mix again until evenly coated.
Line a baking tray with aluminum foil and parchment paper. Arrange wings in a single layer (use two trays if needed).
Bake for 35 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
2. Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
While the wings bake, add soy sauce, mirin, honey, water, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes to a small saucepan.
Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer for about 10 minutes.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat.
3. Coat and Finish the Wings
Remove wings from the oven and toss them in the warm honey garlic sauce.
Return coated wings to the baking tray and bake for another 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to help caramelize the glaze.
Let the wings rest for 10 minutes before serving. The sauce will thicken and become stickier as it cools.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
Benefits of This Honey Garlic Chicken Wings Recipe
- Healthier than deep-fried wings (oven-baked, less oil)
- Balanced flavor: sweet honey + savory soy + aromatic garlic
- High-protein snack or meal
- Perfect for game day appetizers, parties, or family dinners
- Easy pantry-friendly ingredients
Pro Tips for Crispy & Sticky Wings
- Dry the wings thoroughly before seasoning—this is the secret to crispiness.
- Use parchment paper + foil for easy cleanup and even browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the tray; air circulation matters.
- Simmer sauce until slightly thick before coating for better glaze adhesion.
- Let wings rest after baking so the sauce becomes extra sticky.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Honey Garlic Wings: Add extra red pepper flakes or sriracha.
- Air Fryer Version: Cook wings at 380°F for 22–25 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Grilled Wings: Grill until charred, then toss in sauce.
- Sticky Teriyaki Style: Replace honey with brown sugar and add more mirin.
- Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free honey alternative or reduce honey by 1/3.
Serving Ideas
These crispy honey garlic chicken wings pair perfectly with:
- Steamed rice or fried rice
- Asian slaw or cucumber salad
- Dipping sauces like spicy mayo or extra garlic glaze
