There’s nothing quite like the sound of sizzling chicken wings filling the kitchen, and when you add a sweet twist, the experience becomes unforgettable. Enter my Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings—a delightful fusion of flavors that transforms a classic favorite into a health-conscious treat. After a long week of takeout, I wanted to create something that felt indulgent yet guilt-free, and trust me, these wings hit the spot!
Imagine the crispy, golden skin giving way to juicy meat, all enveloped in a homemade strawberry-infused barbecue sauce. It’s sweet, it’s spicy, and it’s just as perfect for game day as it is for an intimate movie night on the couch. Not only are these wings easy to prepare, but they offer a unique combination that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’ll bring excitement back to your dining table!
Why love Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings?
Crispy Texture: Achieve perfectly crispy wings baked to golden perfection—no frying required!
Unique Flavor Fusion: Sweet strawberry preserves meld beautifully with spicy barbecue sauce, creating a mouthwatering taste sensation.
Healthy Twist: Enjoy all the flavor of traditional wings with a health-conscious spin that’s guilt-free.
Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and straightforward instructions, these wings fit any busy schedule.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for parties or cozy nights in, these wings are sure to impress family and friends alike! Add a side of blue cheese for an even tastier experience.
Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings Ingredients
For the Wings
• Chicken Wings – The star of the show; using separate flats and drumettes makes for easier cooking and serving.
• Sea Salt – Enhances flavor; opt for kosher or sea salt for a clean taste.
• Paprika – Adds a smoky flavor and vibrant color; smoked paprika can be used for extra depth.
• Poultry Seasoning – A blend of herbs that beautifully complements the chicken; can substitute with Italian seasoning if unavailable.
• Non-Stick Cooking Spray – Prevents sticking; coconut oil spray is a flavorful alternative.
For the Sauce
• Barbecue Sauce – Provides moisture and a base for the coating; while store-bought works, homemade enhances the flavor profile.
• Strawberry Preserves – Infuses sweetness and fruity flavor into the sauce; feel free to swap with other fruit preserves like raspberry or peach for a twist.
• Hot Sauce – Delivers the heat; adjust the quantity based on your preferred spice level.
These Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings are a mouthwatering delight that promises crispy, flavorful bliss. Enjoy this sweet and spicy twist on a classic favorite!
How to Make Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for crispy wings right from the start.
- Rinse and dry the chicken wings thoroughly using paper towels; this helps to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
- Season the wings generously with sea salt, paprika, and poultry seasoning, ensuring an even coating for maximum flavor.
- Spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray to prevent any sticking during baking; opt for coconut oil for an extra touch of flavor.
- Arrange the wings on the baking sheet, making sure they’re spaced apart for even cooking and crispy results.
- Lightly coat the wings with oil spray, further promoting a golden, crunchy skin as they bake.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, flipping them halfway through to encourage even browning and ensure they’re crispy all around.
- Broil on high for the last 5 minutes to enhance the crispiness of the wings; keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- Mix barbecue sauce, hot sauce, and strawberry preserves in a pan; simmer on low for 5 minutes, stirring until well-combined and deliciously fragrant.
- Toss the baked wings in the warm strawberry barbecue sauce to coat them evenly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries and serve alongside celery or carrot sticks for a refreshing crunch!
Optional: Drizzle with extra barbecue sauce for a more indulgent experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings
- Dry Wings Thoroughly: Ensure the chicken wings are completely dried before applying seasoning; moisture will prevent them from getting crispy.
- Use a Cooling Rack: Place a cooling rack on the baking sheet to allow air circulation under the wings for even cooking and crispiness.
- Check Sauce Flavor: Always taste the barbecue sauce before tossing it with the wings; adjust sweetness or heat based on your personal preference for these sticky strawberry chicken wings.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spacing wings apart on the baking sheet is crucial; overcrowding leads to steaming, which reduces crispiness.
- Broil with Caution: Keep a close eye while broiling the wings as they can burn quickly; this last step is essential for achieving a perfect crunch.
What to Serve with Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings?
Elevate your meal with perfect accompaniments that balance the sweet and spicy flavors of these delightful wings.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy, refreshing side that provides a cool contrast to the spicy wings and brightens up the meal.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and warm, these buttery sticks are perfect for soaking up any leftover barbecue sauce, creating a delightful pairing.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes complements the strawberry barbecue sauce while offering a satisfying crunch.
- Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: A healthier alternative to traditional Buffalo wings, these bites provide a spicy, flavorful contrast that’s fun to enjoy alongside.
- Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and balance the richness of the wings. Juicy strawberries will tie in beautifully!
- Apple Cider Mule: This seasonal cocktail blends sweetness and spice, making it an ideal drink to accompany the wings and enhance your overall experience.
Whether for game day or a cozy dinner, these pairings will ensure your meal is exciting and full of flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can season the chicken wings up to 24 hours in advance, covering them in sea salt, paprika, and poultry seasoning, then refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their flavor and prevent drying out. The homemade strawberry-infused barbecue sauce can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the wings as directed and toss them in the warmed sauce. This way, you’ll have delicious wings without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings
- Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they cool completely before sealing to maintain crispiness.
- Freezer: Wrap wings tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; they can be frozen for up to 2 months. This helps preserve flavor and texture.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the skin soggy.
- Sauce Storage: Store any leftover strawberry barbecue sauce in the fridge for up to a week; it pairs wonderfully with other grilled meats too!
Variations & Substitutions for Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings
Feel free to let your creativity soar as you customize these delicious wings to suit your taste buds!
- Fruit Preserves: Swap strawberry preserves with mango or peach for a tropical flair that will transport your taste buds straight to paradise.
- Meat Swap: Use chicken thighs instead of wings for a juicier, richer experience—perfect for those craving something more tender.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix to crank up the heat without losing the balance of flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme can be sprinkled over the wings before baking for an aromatic twist that elevates the dish.
- Alternative Sauces: Experiment with honey mustard or teriyaki sauce in place of barbecue sauce for a unique taste that still delivers on sweetness.
- Crispy Coating: Try panko breadcrumbs sprinkled on the wings before baking, adding an extra layer of crunch that will keep everyone reaching for seconds.
- Vegan Option: Substitute chicken wings with cauliflower florets for a plant-based alternative that retains the delightful flavors of the sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free barbecue sauce and ensure all spices are certified gluten-free if you’re catering to gluten-sensitive friends or family.
Each variation provides its own unique spin, turning your Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings into a culinary adventure at your dining table! Enjoy experimenting!
Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken wings for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken wings, look for fresh ones that are plump and moist. Avoid any with a slimy texture or dark spots all over, as these can indicate spoilage. If you have the option, purchasing organic or free-range chicken wings can enhance flavor and quality!
What’s the best way to store leftover Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings?
Very! To store leftover wings, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing; this helps keep that delightful crispiness intact.
Can I freeze the Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap the wings tightly in plastic wrap, then cover them with aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag to protect against freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, perfect for grabbing and reheating on busy nights.
What if my wings aren’t getting crispy?
Don’t fret! If your wings aren’t turning out crispy, the most common issue is moisture. Ensure they are thoroughly dried with paper towels before seasoning. Also, using a cooling rack on the baking sheet can help with air circulation, allowing for even cooking. Baking them too close together can lead to steaming instead of crisping, so always give them some space.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the strawberry barbecue sauce in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you’re ready to use it, simply warm it up in a pan on low heat until it’s heated through. This can save time and makes the cooking process even easier!
Are these wings suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! While the recipe is naturally gluten-free, always check your barbecue sauce and preserves to ensure they don’t contain gluten. If you’re concerned about allergies, consider making your own sauce at home to control all ingredients. Plus, they are lower in fat since they’re baked instead of fried, making them a healthier choice for gatherings.
Sticky Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings for Crispy Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for crispy wings.
- Rinse and dry chicken wings thoroughly using paper towels.
- Season wings with sea salt, paprika, and poultry seasoning.
- Spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
- Arrange wings on the baking sheet with space between them.
- Lightly coat wings with oil spray for a crunchy skin.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Broil on high for the last 5 minutes for extra crispiness.
- Mix barbecue sauce, hot sauce, and strawberry preserves in a pan; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Toss the baked wings in the warm strawberry barbecue sauce.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries and serve with celery or carrot sticks.