Tender, juicy baked chicken wings coated in a fantastic sweet and spicy sauce that will catch your taste buds by surprise! Full of flavor and easy to make, this chicken wings recipe will give you a small batch of chicken wings, the perfect amount if you're cooking for yourself.
Mix the barbecue sauce, orange juice, honey, dijon mustard, and hot sauce together in a large bowl. Add the chicken wings and toss to combine. Cover and let marinate for at least 20 minutes in the refrigerator.
Heat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C)
Place the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Place a wire rack on top to ensure the chicken wings cook evenly and get crispy all around.Bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes until brown and crispy.
Notes
Thawing Chicken: You can use either fresh or frozen chicken wings for this recipe. If using frozen, you have a few safe options for thawing: in the refrigerator, using a microwave, or by submerging the wings in a sealed bag in cold water. Once thawed, cook them immediately to maintain safety and flavor.
Storing Leftovers: If you find yourself with extra wings, no worries! Store them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. They'll be good to enjoy for the next 3 to 4 days.
Handling Marinade: Once you've used the marinade on the chicken, it's crucial to discard any leftovers. Reusing it is not recommended for safety reasons.
Optimal Baking Sheet Setup: For even cooking and easy cleanup, consider lining your baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place a wire rack on top to ensure the chicken wings cook evenly and get crispy all around.
Sauce Options: If you're not a fan of spicy foods, feel free to adjust the heat level in your sauce by reducing or omitting the hot sauce. On the flip side, if you crave more heat, amp it up with a bit more hot sauce or even a dash of cayenne pepper.
Checking Doneness: To make sure your wings are fully cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the wing, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).