Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken wings, tips removed, drumettes and flats separated
  • 12 slices bacon, cut in half crosswise
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray or vegetable oil (for baking sheet)

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack (optional, for crispier wings)
  • Aluminum foil
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on the baking sheet if using, and lightly coat with cooking spray or brush with vegetable oil.
  2. Prepare Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
  3. Season Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place wings in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle half of the brown sugar seasoning mix over the wings and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Wrap with Bacon: Take a half-slice of bacon and wrap it around each chicken wing, securing it by slightly overlapping the ends. Place the wrapped wings seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack.
  5. Add More Seasoning: Sprinkle the remaining brown sugar seasoning mix evenly over the bacon-wrapped wings, gently pressing to adhere.
  6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35–45 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Flip the wings halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
  7. Rest and Serve: Remove the wings from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley or serve with a dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese.

Tips

  • Crispy Bacon: Using a wire rack elevates the wings, allowing air to circulate and bacon to crisp up better.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to make the wings milder or spicier.
  • Make Ahead: Season and wrap the wings up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes to restore crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with celery and carrot sticks for a classic wing platter.
  • Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or a honey mustard dip.
  • Great for game day, parties, or a fun family dinner.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving, based on 4 servings)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 32g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Enjoy your sweet, smoky, and savory Brown Sugar Bacon Wings!