Ingredients

For the Wings:

  • 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

For the Sweet Heat Mesquite Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot or Sriracha)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp mesquite seasoning (store-bought or homemade, see below)
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for desired heat)
  • 1/4 tsp liquid smoke (optional, for extra smokiness)

Homemade Mesquite Seasoning (Optional):

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp ground coriander

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack (optional, for crispier wings)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs
  • Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Wings

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top (if using).
  2. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
  4. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the baking sheet or wire rack.
  5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 2: Make the Sweet Heat Mesquite Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan over low heat (or a microwave-safe bowl), combine honey, hot sauce, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, mesquite seasoning, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and liquid smoke (if using).
  2. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. If using a saucepan, heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
  3. Taste and adjust the heat level by adding more hot sauce or cayenne, or more honey for sweetness. Set aside.

Step 3: Coat the Wings

  1. Once the wings are baked, transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Pour the sweet heat mesquite sauce over the wings and toss gently with tongs until evenly coated.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Transfer the wings to a serving platter.
  2. Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
  3. Serve immediately with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your favorite dipping sauce (e.g., ranch or blue cheese).

Tips

  • For Extra Crispiness: After baking, broil the wings for 1-2 minutes per side, watching closely to avoid burning.
  • Make-Ahead: Prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before tossing with wings.
  • Grilling Option: Instead of baking, grill the wings over medium heat (350°F/175°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping occasionally, then toss with sauce.
  • Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper and hot sauce to suit your heat preference.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 6 Wings)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Sodium: 780mg

Servings

  • Serves 4 as an appetizer or 2 as a main dish.

Enjoy your Sweet Heat Mesquite Wings with a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors!