Honey Baked Teriyaki Chicken Wings Recipe

Craving a perfect blend of sweet and savory in your chicken wings? Honey Baked Teriyaki Chicken Wings deliver a flavorful punch that’s hard to beat. Combining the deep umami of teriyaki sauce with the natural sweetness of honey, these wings are baked to crispy perfection while staying juicy and tender on the inside. Ideal for game days, parties, or a family dinner, these wings are not only easy to make but also a healthier alternative to fried versions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to prepare these wings step-by-step, provide expert tips, and explore a few creative variations to make them even more exciting.

                                                                     

Why Honey Baked Teriyaki Wings Are a Fan Favorite

Chicken wings are a universal favorite, but they hit a new level of flavor complexity when baked with a honey teriyaki glaze. Teriyaki sauce is typically made from soy, mirin, and sugar, delivering a salty-sweet foundation. The addition of honey amplifies the sweetness while caramelizing beautifully during the baking process, giving the wings a rich, sticky glaze that everyone loves. Baking these wings instead of frying them makes them a healthier choice without sacrificing crispiness, thanks to a few preparation techniques discussed below.

                                                 

Ingredients for Honey Baked Teriyaki Chicken Wings

For the Chicken Wings:

• 2 lbs Chicken Wings (drumettes and flats)
• 1 tbsp Baking Powder (for extra crispy skin)
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• 1/3 cup Soy Sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 1/4 cup Honey (or substitute maple syrup for a different sweetness profile)
• 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar (adds acidity to balance the sweetness)
• 1 tbsp Sesame Oil (for a nutty aroma)
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp Cornstarch + 2 tbsp Water (to thicken the sauce)

                                             

Optional Garnishes:

• Sesame Seeds
• Chopped Green Onions
• Red Pepper Flakes (for heat)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Honey-Baked Teriyaki Chicken Wings

1. Prep the Chicken Wings

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
• In a large bowl, toss the wings with baking powder, salt, and pepper. The baking powder helps create a crispy outer layer by drawing moisture away from the skin.

2. Bake the Wings

• Arrange the wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the wings, ensuring even crisping.
• Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through to ensure both sides are crispy.

                                                   

3. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

• While the wings are baking, make the teriyaki sauce. Combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
• Mix the cornstarch with water to form a slurry, then whisk it into the sauce. Continue to simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.

4. Toss and Glaze the Wings

• Once the wings are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven. Toss the wings in the honey teriyaki sauce until they’re fully coated.
• For an extra caramelized glaze, return the coated wings to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.

                                                 

5. Serve and Garnish

• Transfer the wings to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds, chopped green onions, and red pepper flakes for a pop of flavor and color.
• Serve immediately and enjoy the irresistible combination of sweet, savory, and crispy goodness.

Nutritional Insights

One of the advantages of baking chicken wings instead of frying them is the reduced fat content. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (4-5 wings):

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Sodium: High, due to soy sauce (use low-sodium options for a healthier alternative).

To further reduce calories, you can substitute honey with a low-calorie sweetener like stevia, or use skinless chicken wings for less fat content.

Creative Variations of Teriyaki Wings

1. Spicy Honey Teriyaki Wings

• Add 1 tablespoon of Sriracha or chili paste to the teriyaki sauce for a spicy kick. If you prefer even more heat, sprinkle the finished wings with red pepper flakes.

2. Gluten-Free Teriyaki Wings

• For a gluten-free option, replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

                                               

3. Air-fried Teriyaki Chicken Wings

• For an even healthier version, use an air fryer instead of an oven. Air fry the wings at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking.

4. Pineapple Teriyaki Wings

• For a tropical twist, add 1/4 cup of pineapple juice to the teriyaki sauce. The acidity and sweetness of the pineapple complement the honey and soy sauce beautifully.

Expert Tips for Perfect Honey-Baked Teriyaki Wings

1. Use Baking Powder for Crispy Skin: It’s essential to coat the wings in baking powder, not baking soda, to get that perfect crispy skin when baked.
2. Don’t Skip the Flip: Turning the wings halfway through baking ensures both sides get equally crispy.
3. Fresh Ginger and Garlic are Key: While powdered versions work in a pinch, fresh ginger and garlic provide a depth of flavor that elevates the sauce.

Conclusion

Our Honey Baked Teriyaki Chicken Wings are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with a crispy glaze that will leave you craving more. These juicy wings are baked to perfection, coated in a rich teriyaki sauce with a hint of honey for an extra touch of sweetness. Whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these wings are a crowd-pleaser. Ready for a finger-licking treat? Dig into these irresistible wings and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Honey-Baked Teriyaki Wings Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can bake the wings up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes before serving. Toss them in fresh teriyaki sauce right before serving for the best results.

How Do I Store Leftover Teriyaki Wings?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. If reheating in the microwave, be aware that the wings may lose some crispiness.

What’s the Best Side Dish for Teriyaki Chicken Wings?

Teriyaki wings pair well with a variety of sides, such as steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad. For a more traditional approach, serve them with coleslaw or roasted sweet potatoes.