Ingredients:

For the Wings:

  • 2 lbs chicken wings (about 20 wings), split into flats and drumettes
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

For the Nashville Hot Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for heat level)
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Sliced pickles
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping

Equipment:

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet with wire rack
  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Tongs
  • Oven

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Wings:
    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
    • In a large mixing bowl, toss wings with vegetable oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
    • Arrange wings in a single layer on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
    • Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until wings are crispy and golden brown, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  2. Make the Nashville Hot Sauce:
    • In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.
    • Whisk in cayenne pepper, honey, brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar.
    • Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
  3. Coat the Wings:
    • Transfer baked wings to a large clean bowl.
    • Pour the warm Nashville hot sauce over the wings and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Serve:
    • Arrange wings on a serving platter.
    • Garnish with sliced pickles and chopped parsley, if desired.
    • Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.

Notes:

  • Heat Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to make the wings milder or hotter to your preference.
  • Make-Ahead: The sauce can be prepared a day in advance and reheated gently before tossing with the wings.
  • Storage: Store leftover wings 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 maintain crispiness.
  • Serving Suggestion: Pair with coleslaw, fries, or cornbread for a complete meal.

Prep Time:

  • 15 minutes

Cook Time:

  • 45 minutes

Total Time:

  • 1 hour

Servings:

  • 4-6