Famous Firecracker Chicken Wings

Famous Firecracker Chicken Wings

Find the ultimate game day snack recipe inspired by a famous restaurant, with a creative twist on classic flavors. Tailgate Game Day Snack - Firecracker Chicken Wings will be your new favorite tailgating food!

🕒 Prep: 10 minutes - Cook: 45 minutes - Total: 55 minutes
🍽 Servings: 6
🔥 Difficulty: Intermediate
🌎 Cuisine: American, Street Food

Allergens

Contains dairy (butter), soy. May contain traces of gluten if wings are breaded. Check labels for allergen information.

Ingredients

  • 24 chicken wings (whole or sectioned)
  • 1/2 cup hot sauce
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: green onions and blue cheese dressing for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken wings with salt and pepper, then arrange them on a baking sheet or tray.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
  3. Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 40 45 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they're crispy and golden brown.
  4. While the wings are baking, combine hot sauce, honey, butter, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
  5. Once the wings are cooked, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the sauce over the wings, tossing them until they're evenly coated.
  6. Return the sauced wings to the baking sheet or tray and broil on high for 2 3 minutes until the glaze is sticky and slightly charred. Watch carefully to avoid burning!
  7. Remove from the oven and let them rest for a minute before garnishing with green onions and blue cheese dressing, if desired.
  8. Serve immediately with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauce.

Chef’s Insight

The key to perfect Firecracker Chicken Wings is the balance of heat from the hot sauce, sweetness from the honey, and umami from the soy sauce. Don't be afraid to adjust the spice levels according to your preferences!

Notes

The sauce can also be used for other proteins like pork or shrimp if desired. Feel free to experiment with different hot sauces and sweeteners to create your own unique flavor profile.

Cultural or Historical Background

The concept of deep-frying and coating chicken in sauces has roots in Southern American cuisine, while the addition of hot sauce brings a fiery twist inspired by the famous Buffalo wings from New York.