If you are on the hunt for a finger-licking delight that brings the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and just a touch of heat, the Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Wings Recipe is the one to try. These wings are gloriously crispy on the outside, tender and juicy inside, and coated with a luscious honey mustard glaze that keeps you coming back for more. Whether it’s game day, a weekend treat, or a casual get-together, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that elevates simple chicken wings into something truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Wings Recipe lies in its straightforward and accessible ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating the perfect harmony of flavor and texture you’ll love.
- Chicken wings (3 pounds): Fresh and trimmed, these are the star players that soak up all the delicious glaze while crisping beautifully.
- Canola oil (2 tablespoons): Adds just enough fat to help the wings brown evenly and get that irresistible crunch.
- Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Provides a gentle kick and depth to the seasoning.
- Whole grain mustard (¾ cup): Offers a rustic texture and a tangy punch that defines the glaze.
- Honey (¾ cup): Brings sweetness and sticky glaze magic that perfectly balances the mustard.
- Hot sauce (2 tablespoons, optional): Adds just the right amount of heat for those who like a bit of spice.
- Freshly chopped chives (optional): For a fresh, mild onion flavor and a bright pop of color as garnish.
How to Make Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Wings Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial because it helps the chicken wings develop that coveted crispy skin without drying them out inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Wings
In a large mixing bowl, toss the trimmed chicken wings with canola oil, Kosher salt, and black pepper. This simple mix ensures that every wing gets an even coating that will help it crisp up and flavor perfectly during baking.
Step 3: Make the Honey Mustard Glaze
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole grain mustard, honey, and optional hot sauce until smooth. This glaze is where the magic happens—it’s sticky, sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy, marrying all the flavors beautifully.
Step 4: Coat the Wings
Pour half of the honey mustard glaze over the wings and toss them thoroughly. Make sure every wing is generously coated so that each bite bursts with flavor.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
If you have a wire rack, place it on a baking sheet for more even heat circulation; otherwise, line your sheet with parchment paper. Lay the wings in a single layer so they can crisp nicely without steaming.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the wings for 25-30 minutes, flipping once halfway through cooking. Watching the wings turn a gorgeous golden brown is one of the best parts—an indication that perfectly crispy deliciousness is just about ready.
Step 7: Glaze Again
Brush the remaining honey mustard glaze over the wings and return them to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. This second glazing step locks in flavor and adds an irresistible sticky finish.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once baked to perfection, take the wings out and let them rest a few minutes. If you like, sprinkle freshly chopped chives on top for a fresh, green garnish that complements the flavors admirably.
How to Serve Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Wings Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped chives or parsley brightens up the dish and adds a subtle oniony freshness that balances the stickiness of the glaze. You can also drizzle a little extra honey mustard glaze on top just before serving for an eye-catching shine.
Side Dishes
Crunchy celery sticks and creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing are classic companions for these wings, adding a cool, refreshing contrast. For something heartier, a simple coleslaw or baked sweet potato fries pairs beautifully to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving your Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Wings Recipe on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment paper creates a casual, inviting vibe perfect for sharing. You can even set up a wing bar with extra dips, lemon wedges, and a sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added texture and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They stay delicious and tender, making them a perfect quick snack or lunch option.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cooked wings in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for about 2 months and thaw quickly when you want a quick meal.
Reheating
Reheat the wings in a hot oven at 400°F (205°C) for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness without drying them out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can turn the glaze soggy and the skin rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and baking. Removing excess moisture helps achieve that crisp texture.
How spicy is the hot sauce in the glaze?
The hot sauce adds a mild to moderate heat depending on your choice and quantity. You can leave it out entirely for a sweeter glaze or adjust to your taste preferences.
Can I make the glaze in advance?
Yes, the honey mustard glaze can be mixed a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before using, as ingredients may separate over time.
What if I don’t have whole grain mustard?
You can substitute with Dijon mustard for a smoother texture and similar tanginess, though the rustic grainy texture adds a delicious bite that complements the wings well.
Is it necessary to flip the wings halfway through baking?
Flipping helps both sides get evenly crispy and cooked through, so it’s highly recommended unless you are using a wire rack which allows even heat circulation.
Final Thoughts
You simply cannot go wrong with this Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Wings Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of ease and incredible flavor that makes any occasion feel special. Once you try these wings, they’ll quickly become a beloved go-to recipe to share with friends and family. So preheat that oven and get ready for some irresistibly tasty wings that are sure to brighten your day!
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Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Wings Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Baked Honey Mustard Chicken Wings are a deliciously crispy and flavorful appetizer or snack perfect for any occasion. The wings are coated in a sticky, sweet, and tangy honey mustard glaze with a hint of heat from optional hot sauce, then baked to golden perfection for a healthier alternative to fried wings.
Ingredients
Chicken Wings
- 3 pounds chicken wings, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Honey Mustard Glaze
- ¾ cup whole grain mustard
- ¾ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional)
Garnish
- Freshly chopped chives (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures the wings will cook quickly and become nice and crispy.
- Prepare the Chicken Wings: In a large mixing bowl, toss the trimmed chicken wings with canola oil, Kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly coated, which helps season and crisp the wings.
- Make the Honey Mustard Glaze: In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole grain mustard, honey, and hot sauce (if using) until smooth and well combined. This glaze adds the delicious sweet and tangy flavor.
- Coat the Wings: Pour about half of the honey mustard glaze over the wings and toss to coat thoroughly, ensuring each wing is well covered for maximum flavor.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place a wire rack on a baking sheet if available, then arrange the wings in a single layer on the rack or directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet to allow even baking and airflow.
- Bake: Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior. The wings should be golden brown when done.
- Glaze Again: Remove the wings from the oven and brush the remaining honey mustard glaze over them. Return the wings to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes to set the glaze and add extra flavor.
- Garnish and Serve: Once finished, let the wings rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped chives if desired, then serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Using a wire rack on the baking sheet helps the wings cook evenly and stay crispy as fat drips away.
- If you prefer less sweetness or heat, adjust the amount of honey or hot sauce in the glaze accordingly.
- Make sure to flip the wings halfway through baking to promote even browning.
- For best results, trim the wings before cooking to remove excess skin and fat.
- These wings can be made a day ahead and reheated in the oven to preserve crispiness.
