Introduction
Take your wing game to a whole new level with Cheesy Honey BBQ Chicken Wings—the ultimate flavor combo that hits every note: smoky, sticky, tangy, sweet, and creamy. These wings are baked or air-fried to crispy perfection, tossed in a rich honey BBQ glaze, and smothered in melty cheese. Whether you’re cooking for game day, a backyard gathering, or just your own cravings, this recipe guarantees finger-licking satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love These Wings
- Sweet meets savory: Honey BBQ sauce + cheese is a flavor bomb.
- Perfect texture: Crispy wings coated in sticky, gooey goodness.
- Versatile cooking methods: Bake or air fry to your preference.
- Great for crowds: Make a big batch and watch them disappear.
Ingredients Overview
For the Wings:
- 2 lbs chicken wings (drums and flats)
- 1 tbsp baking powder (for extra crispiness)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Honey BBQ Sauce:
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tbsp butter (optional for richness)
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for heat)
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Wings
Pat the wings dry with paper towels to remove moisture. In a bowl, toss wings with baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Wings
- Air Fryer Method: Preheat to 400°F. Cook wings for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Oven Method: Preheat oven to 425°F. Place wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping once.
Step 3: Make the Honey BBQ Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine BBQ sauce, honey, butter, and hot sauce (if using). Heat over medium until warmed and slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
Step 4: Toss and Top
Place cooked wings in a large bowl. Pour over the honey BBQ sauce and toss to coat. Arrange sauced wings in a baking dish or on a foil-lined tray.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Broil
Sprinkle the shredded cheeses evenly over the wings. Broil on high for 2–3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot. Provide plenty of napkins—these wings are deliciously messy!
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add more hot sauce or sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
- Bacon Upgrade: Add crumbled cooked bacon before broiling.
- Ranch Twist: Drizzle with ranch or serve on the side for dipping.
What to Serve With Cheesy Honey BBQ Wings
- Celery and carrot sticks with ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Crispy fries or potato wedges
- Mac and cheese or coleslaw
- Cornbread or garlic bread
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Bake at 375°F or air fry until hot and crispy again.
SEO Optimization: Keywords and Meta Description
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Meta Description: Make cheesy honey BBQ chicken wings with this sticky-sweet, savory recipe! Crispy wings tossed in honey BBQ sauce and smothered in melted cheese.
Conclusion
Cheesy Honey BBQ Chicken Wings are the kind of irresistible indulgence that brings people together. They’re bold, flavorful, and fun to eat—perfect for parties, game nights, or whenever you want wings with a little extra flair. Once you try them, you’ll want to make them a regular on your menu!