Baked BBQ Chicken Wings

There’s something universally comforting about a plate of baked BBQ chicken wings. Whether it’s the rich, smoky aroma wafting through the kitchen or the sticky, sweet glaze clinging to your fingers, each bite is a throwback to summer cookouts and chilly game nights alike. For me, this dish is the very essence of family gatherings. I still remember the first time my father decided to bake wings instead of firing up the grill—it was one of those rainy Saturdays that made outdoor plans impossible. We crowded into our tiny kitchen, watching him work his magic in the oven instead. When the wings came out—crispy on the outside, tender inside, coated in a tangy glaze that clung to every crevice—we knew we had a new family tradition.

Baked BBQ chicken wings aren’t just for game days or parties. They’re an invitation to slow down, gather around the table, and enjoy the small but delicious moments in life. Unlike deep-fried wings, these are oven-baked, which makes them not only easier but healthier, without compromising on texture or flavor. The sticky barbecue glaze, boosted with a touch of honey and apricot preserves, is what transforms these from ordinary to irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture, No Fryer Needed: Baking at high heat locks in moisture and crisps the skin beautifully.
• Bold, Balanced BBQ Flavor: Sweet, spicy, and tangy thanks to the blend of preserves, honey, and buffalo sauce.
• Great for Gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just feeding the family, these wings are always a hit.
• Easy to Customize: You can adjust the heat or sweetness to suit your personal taste.
• Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleaser: Mild enough for younger eaters, bold enough for flavor lovers.

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INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 2 lb chicken wings, separated into flats and drums
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 Tbsp vegetable oil
• ½ cup apricot preserves (or peach if preferred)
• ½ cup buffalo-style hot sauce
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

How to Make Baked BBQ Chicken Wings

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top for optimal air circulation.
2. Dry and Season the Wings: Pat the wings dry with paper towels—this is key for crispiness. Toss them in a large bowl with salt, pepper, and oil until evenly coated.
3. First Bake: Arrange the wings on the wire rack in a single layer. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

1. Make the BBQ Glaze: While the wings bake, combine apricot preserves, honey, and buffalo sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and bubbling. Remove from heat and stir in the minced garlic.
2. Glaze and Bake Again: Once the wings are cooked through and golden, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Toss with the BBQ glaze until thoroughly coated, then return them to the rack and bake for another 5 to 7 minutes, just until the glaze becomes sticky and caramelized.
3. Serve Warm: Arrange the wings on a platter and serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs or a side of ranch or blue cheese if desired.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Baked BBQ Chicken Wings

• Air-Dry for Maximum Crisp: If time allows, season your wings and let them sit uncovered in the fridge for 1–2 hours before baking.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Give the wings space on the baking rack so they roast instead of steam.
• Use a Thermometer: Chicken is perfectly done when it reaches 165°F internally.
• Flavor Boosters: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the glaze for extra depth.
• Make It a Meal: Pair with coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted sweet potatoes for a satisfying dinner.

DETAILS

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Appetizer / Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten-Free (verify sauce brands)

NOTES

These wings are versatile enough for weeknights and special enough for parties. You can double the glaze and store extra in the fridge—it’s great on grilled veggies or burgers too.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (approx. per wing)

• Calories: 140
• Protein: 11g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Sugar: 6g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I make these in advance?
Absolutely. Bake the wings, cool, and refrigerate. Reheat at 375°F, glaze, then broil for 2–3 minutes.

What’s the best way to reheat them?
Reheat on a baking rack at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to preserve texture.

Can I use different sauces?
Yes! Try a honey garlic or mustard BBQ glaze instead.

Are they freezer-friendly?
Yes. Freeze cooked, unglazed wings, then thaw, glaze, and bake until hot and sticky.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For freezing, let wings cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a hot oven before serving.

Related Recipes

If you liked these baked BBQ chicken wings, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Turkish Chicken Kabobs
• Thai Grilled Chicken (Gai Yang ไก่ย่าง)
• Key West Grilled Chicken: A Tropical Honey-Lime Marinade That Brings the Sunshine

Conclusion

Few dishes rival the universal appeal of baked BBQ chicken wings. They’re simple, flavorful, and endlessly comforting. Perfect for busy weeknights, game day spreads, or lazy weekends, this recipe brings people together one delicious wing at a time. So go ahead—grab a napkin, dig in, and savor every saucy bite.