Crispy Garlic Chicken Wings with Honey Lemon Sauce is a delicious, finger-licking dish that’s perfect for game days, parties, or family dinners. These wings are first coated in a garlic-infused butter and starch mixture, fried to crispy perfection, and then tossed in a tangy-sweet honey lemon sauce that gives them an irresistible flavor. The combination of crispy wings and zesty sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser and will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Wings:
- Chicken wings: 1.2 kg (3 lb)
- Soft butter: 150 g (5.3 oz)
- Garlic (minced): 20 g (0.7 oz)
- Starch (cornstarch or potato starch): 150 g (5.3 oz)
- Salt: 5 g (0.2 oz)
For the Sauce:
- Soft butter: 80 g (2.8 oz)
- Honey: 20 g (0.7 oz)
- Ketchup: 150 g (5.3 oz)
- Garlic (minced): 10 g (0.4 oz)
- Lemon zest: 15 g (0.5 oz)
- Lemon juice: 20 ml (0.7 fl oz)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
- Season and Coat the Wings:
Pat the chicken wings dry with a paper towel. In a large bowl, mix the soft butter, minced garlic, starch, and salt. Toss the chicken wings in this mixture, ensuring each wing is evenly coated. - Fry the Wings:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pan to 180°C (350°F). Fry the chicken wings in batches for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure the wings are cooked through and crispy on the outside. - Drain and Rest:
Once cooked, remove the wings from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Honey Lemon Sauce
- Melt Butter:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until fully liquid. - Add the Other Ingredients:
Stir in the honey, ketchup, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix well and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce begins to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to ensure the ingredients are well-combined.
Step 3: Toss the Wings in Sauce
- Combine Wings and Sauce:
Place the fried wings in a large mixing bowl. Pour the honey lemon sauce over the wings, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Toss the wings gently to ensure the sauce covers all sides of the wings. - Serve:
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra flavor and color. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces or sides like fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips:
- Crispier Wings: To get extra crispy wings, you can double fry them. After frying the wings for the first time, let them rest for 5-10 minutes, then fry them again for 2-3 minutes until they become even crispier.
- Marinating for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinate the wings in the garlic butter mixture for 1-2 hours before frying. This will intensify the garlic flavor.
- Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the sauce for a few more minutes to reduce it further. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or lemon juice to thin it out.
- Baking Option: For a healthier version, bake the wings in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are crispy.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore the crispiness.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked wings for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, and when ready to serve, reheat them in the oven at 200°C (400°F) until hot and crispy.
- Reheating Tips: To reheat the wings, avoid using the microwave as it can make them soggy. Instead, use an oven or air fryer to reheat at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
FAQs:
- Can I use chicken drumsticks instead of wings?
Yes, you can substitute chicken drumsticks or thighs for wings, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Drumsticks will take longer to cook, about 15-18 minutes when frying. - What type of starch is best for frying?
Cornstarch or potato starch both work well for making the wings extra crispy. If you don’t have either, all-purpose flour can also be used, but it might not be as crispy. - How can I make the sauce spicier?
To add a spicy kick, you can add chili flakes, sriracha, or a dash of hot sauce to the honey lemon sauce. - Can I make the wings in advance?
You can prepare the wings ahead of time by frying them, letting them cool, and storing them in the fridge. Just reheat them in the oven and toss them in the sauce before serving. - What other dipping sauces pair well with these wings?
Ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or even a spicy sriracha mayo would complement the flavors of the wings.
Conclusion:
These Crispy Garlic Chicken Wings with Honey Lemon Sauce are the ultimate crowd-pleaser with their crispy texture and bold flavors. The combination of tangy, sweet, and savory elements creates a perfect balance, making them a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, main dish, or party snack, these wings are sure to impress. Enjoy them fresh and hot, and don’t forget to experiment with different dips and sides for a complete meal!