If you are searching for a finger-licking, bold, and irresistibly flavorful dish, the Honey Chili Crisp Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine perfectly grilled chicken wings, smoky with charred goodness, coated in a sticky glaze that masterfully balances sweet honey and spicy chili crisp. Each bite offers a delightful crunch from the chili crisp, a buttery richness, and a subtle tang from apple cider vinegar that wakes up your taste buds. Trust me, these wings are perfect for backyard gatherings, game nights, or simply satisfying your wing cravings in the coziest way possible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl filled with raw chicken wings piled loosely with visible skin texture, showing pale pink and yellowish tones; the wings are sprinkled unevenly with coarse salt and ground black pepper, giving a slightly grainy texture on top. The background is a white marbled surface, providing a clean and bright setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each bringing their own magic to the wings. From the luscious butter that adds richness to the piquant chili crisp that gives a fantastic spicy crunch, every element plays a role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and aromas.

2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Provides a creamy base that carries the flavors beautifully.
2 tablespoons chili crisp (Momofuku brand recommended): Offers a crispy texture and spicy kick that defines the dish.
1 tablespoon honey: Gives a natural sweetness that harmonizes the heat and adds stickiness.
1 teaspoon soy sauce: Adds a savory depth and umami richness to the sauce.
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar: Cuts through the richness with a tangy brightness.
2 lbs. chicken wings: The star of the show, providing juicy meat to soak up the sauce.
2 teaspoons sea salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the chicken’s natural flavors.
1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity.

How to Make Honey Chili Crisp Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Season

Start by heating your grill to 425°F. While it’s warming up, take your chicken wings and toss them in a bowl with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning is crucial because it enhances the natural flavor of the wings and creates a deliciously crispy skin when grilled.

Step 2: Prepare the Glaze

Time to make that mouthwatering sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the unsalted butter, chili crisp, honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Let the butter melt and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so all the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens slightly. Then, set it aside to rest while you grill your wings.

Step 3: Grill the Wings

Don’t forget to spray your grill grates with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Now place your wings directly over the heat, grilling them for 15 to 20 minutes. Flip them every 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking and to develop those gorgeous grill marks we all adore. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 165°F and to achieve a crispy, charred skin while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Step 4: Glaze and Serve

Once your wings are grilled to perfection, remove them from the heat and toss them immediately in the Honey Chili Crisp sauce. Make sure each wing is liberally coated to get that perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and buttery flavors. Serve these glorious wings immediately while warm and sticky for the best experience.

How to Serve Honey Chili Crisp Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe

A white bowl filled with a large pile of cooked chicken wings showing a mix of light golden and brown colors with a slightly crispy texture. Above the bowl, a small silver sauce pan is tilted, pouring a thick dark red-brown sauce with visible black chili flakes onto the wings. The bowl rests on a white marbled surface, and a woman's hand lightly holds the handle of the pan. The scene is bright and clear, focusing on the sauce dripping onto the wings photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and add extra flavor, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions over the wings. The sesame seeds provide a subtle nuttiness and crunch, while the green onions bring a fresh, mild bite that complements the bold glaze beautifully.

Side Dishes

These wings pair wonderfully with simple sides that balance their richness. Try serving them alongside a crisp, refreshing coleslaw or cool cucumber salad to cut through the heat. Garlic roasted potatoes or a vibrant corn salad also work well to round out the meal without overpowering the star dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist that impresses guests, serve the wings on a large platter lined with banana leaves or parchment paper. Add small bowls of dipping sauces like creamy ranch or tangy blue cheese alongside to offer variety. You can even skewer the wings with fresh herbs for an elegant finger food setup perfect for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Honey Chili Crisp Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days, making it easy to enjoy the leftovers without a dip in flavor or texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge to maintain juiciness and texture.

Reheating

The best way to reheat these wings is in the oven or on the grill at a medium temperature to keep the skin crispy and the interior warm without drying them out. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the skin rubbery and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought chili crisp for this recipe?

Absolutely! The recipe calls for chili crisp, and using a quality store-bought brand like Momofuku will give you that perfect combination of crispy texture and spicy flavor. Just pick one you love and enjoy the magic it adds.

Is this recipe spicy? What if I don’t like spicy food?

The chili crisp does add a noticeable but balanced heat, but it’s not overwhelming. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of chili crisp or look for a milder version. The honey and butter also help mellow the spiciness, creating a nice harmony of flavors.

Can I bake the wings instead of grilling them?

Yes, baking is a great alternative if you don’t have access to a grill. Bake the seasoned wings on a baking sheet at 425°F for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway. Then toss in the honey chili crisp sauce just like you would with grilled wings for that same fantastic flavor profile.

What’s the best way to clean the grill after cooking these saucy wings?

To keep your grill in tip-top shape, wipe down the grates immediately after cooking with a grill brush while they’re still warm. You can also dip the brush in oil or use aluminum foil scrunched into a ball as a makeshift scrubber.

Can I adjust the sweetness or tanginess of the sauce?

Definitely! This Honey Chili Crisp Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe is forgiving, so feel free to add more honey if you want it sweeter or increase the apple cider vinegar for extra tang. Adjust little by little to find your perfect balance.

Final Thoughts

This Honey Chili Crisp Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites because it combines everything a great wing should have—charcoal-grilled smoky flavor, a perfectly sticky sweet-heat glaze, and that unbeatable crunch from chili crisp. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, these wings will bring joy and satisfy craving after craving. So fire up your grill and dive into this easy, delicious recipe—it’s a game changer!