Honey Balsamic Chicken Wings

Name: Honey Balsamic Chicken Wings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Prep Meal Collection

I absolutely love making Honey Balsamic Chicken Wings because they're a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that always impress my friends and family. The sticky glaze adds a rich color and taste that's hard to resist, making these wings the perfect addition to any gathering or game day spread. The best part is how simple they are to prepare, and I can already see the smiles on everyone’s faces as they dig into this finger-licking goodness. Trust me, once you try these, they'll become a staple in your home too!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:13:27.829Z

When I first experimented with Honey Balsamic Chicken Wings, I was captivated by the combination of flavors. I marinated the wings in a mixture of honey and balsamic vinegar, allowing them to soak up every bit of goodness. The result was a succulent finish that had everyone asking for the recipe. One tip I found invaluable is to broil the wings for a few minutes at the end to get that irresistible caramelization.

I remember the first time I served these at a barbecue. They vanished in minutes, and the mixture of sweet and savory drew rave reviews! Cooking them at a higher temperature helps to achieve those crispy edges while keeping the meat juicy. I can't wait for you to experience this flavor explosion yourself!

Why You'll Love These Wings
Perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
Crispy edges with juicy, tender meat
An easy and quick recipe for any occasion

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

Marinating the chicken wings in the honey balsamic mixture not only infuses them with flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. The acidity in the balsamic vinegar breaks down the proteins, making the wings juicy and flavorful. For the best results, try to marinate the wings for the full two hours if your schedule allows; this provides ample time for the flavors to meld and results in a deliciously tender wing.

If you're short on time, even a 30-minute soak can yield satisfying flavors, but I recommend popping them in the marinade the night before for a make-ahead option. Just remember to keep them covered in the fridge! For a little kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra dimension of flavor.

Achieving Perfectly Crispy Wings

To ensure your wings come out crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside, the cooking method is crucial. Baking the wings at 400°F (200°C) helps render out some fat while the high heat promotes browning. The additional broiling step is vital; it creates that irresistible crispy edge that elevates the dish from good to spectacular. Keep a close watch during this phase—wings can go from perfectly charred to burnt in just a minute or two.

Using a wire rack on top of your baking sheet can also improve airflow around the wings, enhancing crispness. If you don't have one, that’s okay—just ensure the wings are spread in a single layer without touching to allow for even cooking. Tossing them halfway through can also help achieve a golden appearance all around.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Honey Balsamic Chicken Wings shine when served with a variety of dipping sauces. A creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing complements the sweetness perfectly, balancing out the tangy elements of the wings. For a fresh contrast, serve them alongside crisp celery sticks or fresh veggies, which add crunch and make the meal feel lighter.

Feel free to elevate your gathering by pairing these wings with sides like coleslaw or potato salad. As a fun variation, you could serve them over a bed of mixed greens for a unique twist on a salad. If you're anticipating leftovers, store the wings in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven to regain that appealing crispiness.

Ingredients

For the Wings

2 pounds chicken wings
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Wings

Add the chicken wings to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Bake the Wings

Place the marinated wings on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for about 25 minutes until they are golden and cooked through.

Broil for Crispiness

Switch the oven to broil and cook the wings for an additional 5 minutes to achieve crispy edges. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce to the marinade or using different herbs such as rosemary or thyme.

Ingredient Insights

Honey serves as the star of the glaze in this recipe, providing sweetness and helping to create that glossy finish on the wings. Opting for raw honey can intensify the flavor profile, allowing for a richer taste experience. If you're looking for a vegan alternative, maple syrup can be a suitable substitute, though it will impart a slightly different flavor.

Balsamic vinegar is another critical component, contributing not only acidity but also depth and complexity to the marinade. Choose a quality balsamic vinegar; aging processes can greatly affect the sweetness and richness of the flavor. If you're out of balsamic, apple cider vinegar mixed with a bit of brown sugar can replicate some of the desired qualities, albeit with a different flavor.

Storage and Freezing Tips

After you’ve enjoyed these delicious wings, storing them is straightforward. Place any uneaten wings in a sealed container in the fridge, where they will stay delicious for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and they can last in the freezer for about two months. Thaw them in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

When it comes time to reheat, avoid the microwave, as it can result in soggy skin. Instead, use the oven—preheat to 375°F (190°C) and heat the wings for about 10-15 minutes, which will help to restore their delightful crispiness while ensuring they’re warmed through.

Adjusting the Recipe

This honey balsamic chicken wings recipe is exceptionally versatile. If you're cooking for a smaller group or wish to reduce waste, feel free to cut the ingredient amounts in half. Conversely, for larger gatherings, you can easily double the recipe; just ensure your baking sheets aren’t overcrowded to maintain crispiness during baking.

For those needing a gluten-free option, simply replace the soy sauce with a gluten-free variety or use tamari. Additionally, consider experimenting with the marinade by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for a new flavor twist, or even citrus zest for a refreshing hint that pairs well with the existing flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen wings?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw them before marinating and cooking for even results.

→ How can I make these wings spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a kick.

→ Can I grill these wings instead?

Absolutely! Just follow the marinade instructions and grill over medium-high heat until cooked through.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Place any leftover wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.