These tasty balsamic glazed chicken wings are packed with flavor! The sweet and tangy glaze makes them perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in.
Honestly, who can resist a finger-licking wing? I love to serve these with a side of veggies or fries for a fun meal. Enjoying them with friends is always a blast! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh wings are ideal for this dish, but frozen wings work too. If you’re short on time, consider using wing sections that are pre-cut. You can also use boneless chicken thighs if you prefer less mess!
Balsamic Vinegar: This is the star of the show, giving wings their great flavor. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar offers a similar tang. You could also use apple cider vinegar, but the taste will be slightly different.
Soy Sauce: It adds depth and saltiness. For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos. If you’re watching sodium, low-sodium soy sauce is a good choice.
Honey/Brown Sugar: These sweeteners balance the acidity of the vinegar. You can also use maple syrup or agave nectar if that suits your taste or dietary needs. I usually opt for honey for its flavor.
Ginger: This adds a fresh kick. If you don’t have fresh ginger, ground ginger works in a pinch—just use about 1/4 teaspoon.
How Do I Get Crispy Chicken Wings?
Getting the wings crispy can be a bit tricky but definitely achievable! Here are my top tips for success:
- Make sure to pat the chicken wings dry before seasoning. This helps them crisp up nicely.
- Using a wire rack while baking allows air to circulate around the wings for even cooking and crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this helps them brown rather than steam.
- Flipping the wings halfway through cooking helps achieve an even crisp on both sides.
With these tips, you’ll be able to serve up perfectly crispy and delicious balsamic glazed chicken wings every time! Enjoy!
Easy Balsamic Glazed Chicken Wings
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp freshly grated ginger (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Red chili flakes (optional, for serving)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate. So, plan for around 1 hour and 10 minutes altogether. The marinating time can be increased if you’re looking to make the wings more flavorful!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wings:
Start by patting the chicken wings dry with some paper towels. This helps them crisp up later! Lightly season them with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Make the Marinade/Glaze:
In a mixing bowl, combine the balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), minced garlic, grated ginger (if using), and olive oil. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed.
3. Marinate the Wings:
Place the wings into a large ziplock bag or bowl. Pour half of your balsamic mixture over the wings, making sure they are all nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, let them marinate for 1-2 hours!
4. Cook the Wings:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with foil. If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the foil for even cooking. Bake the wings for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Glaze the Wings:
While the wings are baking, take the remaining balsamic glaze you set aside and pour it into a small saucepan. Heat it over medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer, and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
6. Coat the Cooked Wings:
After baking, remove the wings from the oven and place them into a large bowl. Drizzle the warm, thickened balsamic glaze over the wings and toss to coat them evenly.
7. Serve:
Arrange the delicious balsamic glazed wings on a serving plate. Garnish with sliced green onions for some freshness. Don’t forget to serve with lemon wedges on the side for a little zing! If you like things spicy, sprinkle some red chili flakes over the top.
Enjoy your tangy, sweet, and savory balsamic glazed chicken wings! They’re perfect for parties or simply as a delicious snack. Have fun!
FAQ for Easy Balsamic Glazed Chicken Wings
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. It’s best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or use the quick method of placing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for about an hour.
How Long Can I Marinate the Wings?
You can marinate the wings for as little as 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, I recommend marinating them for 1-2 hours. You can even marinate them overnight if you’re prepping ahead!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Can I Bake the Wings at a Different Temperature?
While 400°F (200°C) is ideal for crispy wings, you can bake them at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes if you prefer a slightly shorter cooking time. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
