These easy balsamic glazed chicken wings are sweet, tangy, and oh-so-delicious! The sticky glaze makes them perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Preparing these wings is a breeze! Just coat them in a simple balsamic mixture, bake until crispy, and watch them disappear—everyone loves a good finger food! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Always use fresh wings for the best flavor. If you prefer a lower-fat option, you can substitute with drumsticks or boneless chicken pieces, but make sure to adjust cooking times to ensure they’re cooked through.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is essential for flavor! If you’re out, red wine vinegar works in a pinch, though it will change the taste slightly. For a sweeter glaze, try aged balsamic vinegar.
Honey/Brown Sugar: Both add sweetness to balance the tangy vinegar. If you’re vegan, opt for maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey.
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh garlic and ginger provide an aromatic layer. If you don’t have fresh, you might use garlic powder and ginger powder, but fresh will definitely enhance the flavor more.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: This is optional if you like a bit of heat. You can replace it with black pepper for mild wings or omit it entirely.
How Do I Get Crispy Chicken Wings?
Getting those wings crispy is key to a great texture! The trick is to dry them thoroughly. Here’s how:
- After washing, pat the wings dry with paper towels. Removing moisture helps them crisp up in the oven.
- Using a wire rack allows air to circulate around the wings, promoting even cooking and crispness.
- Baking at a higher temperature (400°F or 200°C) ensures a golden-brown finish.
- Don’t forget to flip them halfway through cooking for a uniform crispiness!
By following these steps, you’re sure to enjoy deliciously crispy balsamic glazed chicken wings at your next gathering!
Easy Balsamic Glazed Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, tips removed and wings split
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 35-40 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need approximately 50 minutes to enjoy these delicious wings from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is key to getting those wings nice and crispy! Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top to elevate the wings.
2. Prepare the Wings:
Use paper towels to pat the chicken wings dry. This step is important because it helps the skin get crispy. Once dry, season the wings lightly with salt and black pepper.
3. Make the Balsamic Glaze:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger (if you’re using it), crushed red pepper flakes, and olive oil. This mixture will be your flavor-packed glaze!
4. Coat the Wings:
Place the chicken wings in a large bowl or a ziplock bag. Pour half of the balsamic glaze over the wings and toss them well until they’re evenly coated. Set the remaining glaze aside for later.
5. Arrange the Wings:
Lay the wings out on the wire rack, making sure they’re spaced apart a little bit for even cooking. This will help them crisp up beautifully!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the wings in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through for even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when the skin is crispy and the wings are cooked through!
7. Glaze in the Home Stretch:
In the last 5-7 minutes of baking, brush the wings generously with the reserved balsamic glaze. This will give them a beautiful, sticky, and glossy finish!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once the wings are all baked and looking delicious, take them out of the oven. Garnish them with sliced green onions for a pop of color and serve with lemon wedges on the side for that extra zing!
9. Enjoy!
These wings are perfect as is, but feel free to pair them with your favorite dipping sauces. Dig in and enjoy the tangy, sweet goodness!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Balsamic Glazed Chicken Wings
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but it’s important to fully thaw them first. The best way to thaw them is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can submerge them in cold water in a sealed bag for a quicker thaw. Pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning to ensure crispiness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain the crispy texture!
Can I Make These Wings in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! To make these wings in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the wings in a single layer and cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until they’re crispy. Brush with the reserved glaze during the last few minutes of cooking!
What Can I Serve with Balsamic Glazed Chicken Wings?
These wings are great on their own, but you can enhance your meal by serving them with sides like coleslaw, potato wedges, or a simple salad. They also pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese for an extra flavor kick!
