Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast! These Chili Lime Sticky Crispy Chicken Wings are not just a recipe – they're a flavor revolution that combines the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and sweet. Whether you're hosting a game night, looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or simply craving something incredibly delicious, these wings will become your new obsession. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a dish that looks gourmet but is surprisingly easy to make!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup honey
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness. This helps remove excess moisture that can prevent proper browning.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to create a dry seasoning mix.
- Coat each chicken wing thoroughly with the dry seasoning mixture, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
- Arrange the seasoned wings on the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer without overcrowding to allow proper air circulation.
- Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- While wings are baking, prepare the sticky glaze by whisking together lime juice and honey in a small saucepan.
- Simmer the lime-honey mixture over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until it becomes slightly thickened and glossy.
- Once wings are crispy and golden brown, remove from oven and immediately brush with the warm lime-honey glaze.
- For extra caramelization, return the glazed wings to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the glaze to set and wings to cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy of Crispiness: Always pat your chicken wings completely dry before seasoning. This crucial step ensures that your wings will achieve that irresistible crispy exterior.
- Even Seasoning is Key: Use your hands to thoroughly coat each wing with the dry seasoning mix, making sure no spot is left unseasoned.
- Don't Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give your wings breathing room! Spread them out in a single layer to allow hot air to circulate, which guarantees maximum crispiness.
- Glaze Timing Matters: Apply the lime-honey glaze at the right moment – too early, and it might burn; too late, and it won't caramelize properly.
- Optional Flavor Boosters: Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for an extra layer of freshness and color.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the dry seasoning mix and glaze in advance to make cooking day even easier!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
