Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings

Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings wafting through the house. I remember the first time I made them; it was a chilly fall evening, and I wanted something warm and savory to enjoy while curled up on the couch. As I tossed the wings into the crockpot, I could already envision the crispy, sticky goodness awaiting us. These wings have become a staple for game days, family gatherings, or just a cozy dinner at home. What I love most about them is their simplicity and the rich flavor that develops as they cook. With very little prep work, you can set it and forget it, letting the crockpot work its magic. When it’s time to eat, all you have to do is toss them in the oven for a quick crisp up. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
4 hr 20 mins
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
255 mins
Difficulty:
Hard
Calories:
350 kcal
Protein:
25 g
Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
Fat:
15 g
Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon, Slow Cooker, Whisk, Oven

Why This Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings Is a Winner

Convenience at Its Best

One of the primary reasons I adore Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings is the sheer convenience they offer. You just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work while you enjoy your day. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply looking for a hassle-free dinner, these wings are an ideal choice.

Flavor Explosion

The combination of BBQ sauce and honey creates a perfect sweet and tangy glaze that clings to the wings. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making them irresistible. I guarantee they’ll become a favorite among your family and friends!

Perfect for Any Occasion

These wings are versatile and fit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a football party or having a family movie night, they will be a hit. Plus, they are great for meal prep; you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Healthier Indulgence

What I love about making wings at home is that I can control the ingredients. Using fresh ingredients means you can avoid preservatives often found in restaurant wings. You can indulge guilt-free while still savoring every crispy bite.

Kid-Friendly

The sweet and tangy flavor of the Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings makes them a hit with kids too. They love getting their hands dirty while munching on these tasty bites, making dinner time so much more fun!

Easy Cleanup

With the crockpot, cleanup is a breeze. Once you’re done enjoying your meal, simply soak the insert and wash it. There’s no mess on the stovetop or multiple pots to deal with, leaving you more time to relax.

Shopping List for Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings

Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect flavor profile that complements the wings. You’ll find that this combination of spices and sauces not only enhances the taste but also ensures a tender and juicy bite.

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder – This adds a subtle heat to balance the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Provides a rich, smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Gives a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the wings.
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a bit of warmth and spice.
  • 4 pounds chicken wings, fresh or frozen – The star of the dish, providing that classic wing experience.
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce – The key ingredient for that sweet and tangy glaze.
  • ½ cup honey – This sweetens the sauce and caramelizes beautifully in the oven.

How to Prepare Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings

Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings

Preparing Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings is a straightforward yet satisfying experience. The steps are easy to follow, and the end result is incredibly rewarding. You’ll love the simplicity of this recipe and how it fills your home with a mouthwatering aroma!

  1. In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.
  2. Take the chicken wings, whether frozen or fresh, and place them in the crockpot. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the wings. Use your hands or a spoon to stir the wings, ensuring each piece is coated evenly with the seasoning.
  3. Cover the crockpot with its lid. If you’re using frozen wings, cook them on high for about 3.5 to 4.5 hours. For fresh wings, set the crockpot to high for 3 to 4 hours, or low for about 4 to 5 hours.
  4. Once the wings are cooked, preheat your oven to 425˚F. Carefully remove the wings from the crockpot and place them in a large bowl. To achieve a crispy finish, it’s important to dry the wings as much as possible. The drier they are, the better the sauce will stick.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey. Pour this mixture over the wings, tossing them gently but thoroughly to ensure each wing is coated with the sauce.
  6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Lay the wings out in a single layer on the sheet. Cook them in the oven’s top rack for about 15 to 18 minutes. The sauce will begin to caramelize, giving the wings a beautiful glaze.
  7. After 15 minutes, check to see if they are crispy enough. If desired, brush the wings with additional sauce from the bowl you mixed them in for extra flavor.
  8. Once they are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven. Serve hot and watch them disappear!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Cooking Time Variations: Depending on your crockpot, cooking times may vary slightly. Always check for doneness.
  • Flavor Depth: For added depth, marinating the wings in the seasonings overnight can infuse even more flavor.
  • Oven Crisping: The final oven step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior; don’t skip it!
  • Using Fresh Wings: Fresh wings tend to yield a slightly juicier result compared to frozen.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings

Adapting the Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings recipe can lead to delightful variations. Here are some tips to make it your own:

  • Add Spice: For those who love heat, add cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix.
  • Sweet and Savory: Mix in some soy sauce with the BBQ sauce for a savory twist.
  • Different Sauces: Experiment with different types of BBQ sauces; mango or chipotle can change the flavor profile completely.
  • Slow Cooked Flavor: Consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to your sauce for a tangy kick.
  • Serving Styles: These wings are perfect for a variety of occasions – game day, family gatherings, or a casual dinner. Serve them with celery sticks and ranch dressing for a classic touch.

What to Serve With Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings

When it comes to serving Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings, the possibilities are endless! Here are some excellent options to complement your delicious wings:

  • Classic Side Salads: A light Caesar or garden salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory wings.
  • Veggie Sticks: Consider crunchy veggie sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers paired with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
  • Fries or Chips: Crispy fries or tortilla chips are great for soaking up any extra BBQ sauce.
  • Rice or Quinoa: Serve the wings over fluffy rice or quinoa for a filling meal.
  • Perfect for Gatherings: These wings work beautifully for parties or casual get-togethers. They’re easy to share and always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Game Day: Make these wings the star of your game day spread, paired with a selection of dips and drinks.

FAQ

Absolutely! Using frozen chicken wings is a great option for this recipe. Just remember that they will need to cook a bit longer than fresh wings. If you’re using frozen wings, set your crockpot to high and plan for about 3.5 to 4.5 hours of cooking time. This ensures they will be tender and flavorful by the time you’re ready to serve!

If you love a kick of heat, there are several ways to spice up your Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings. You can add cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or drizzle some hot sauce over the wings before serving. Additionally, consider using a spicy BBQ sauce for an extra layer of flavor. Just be cautious with the amount, as a little can go a long way!

Yes, you can prepare Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings ahead of time! Once they are cooked in the crockpot, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be stored for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve them, simply reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness before enjoying!

When serving Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings, you have plenty of delicious options for sides. Consider serving them with classic sides like celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Other great options include crispy fries, a light salad, or even a cheese platter. These side dishes complement the wings beautifully and add variety to your meal!

Conclusion

In summary, Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings are an incredibly tasty and convenient dish that everyone loves. They blend sweet and savory flavors, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try making these wings; you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy every bite and watch them become a favorite in your home!

Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings

Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings

The ultimate comfort food, Crockpot Honey BBQ Wings are tender, juicy, and bursting with sweet and tangy flavor. Perfect for game days or a cozy family dinner, these wings are easy to prepare and even easier to devour. Make them tonight and enjoy every delicious bite!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 5 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Slow Cooker
  • Whisk
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 4 pounds chicken wings fresh or frozen
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • ½ cup honey

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.
  • Take the chicken wings, whether frozen or fresh, and place them in the crockpot. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the wings. Use your hands or a spoon to stir the wings, ensuring each piece is coated evenly with the seasoning.
  • Cover the crockpot with its lid. If you're using frozen wings, cook them on high for about 3.5 to 4.5 hours. For fresh wings, set the crockpot to high for 3 to 4 hours, or low for about 4 to 5 hours.
  • Once the wings are cooked, preheat your oven to 425˚F. Carefully remove the wings from the crockpot and place them in a large bowl. To achieve a crispy finish, it's important to dry the wings as much as possible. The drier they are, the better the sauce will stick.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey. Pour this mixture over the wings, tossing them gently but thoroughly to ensure each wing is coated with the sauce.
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Lay the wings out in a single layer on the sheet. Cook them in the oven's top rack for about 15 to 18 minutes. The sauce will begin to caramelize, giving the wings a beautiful glaze.
  • After 15 minutes, check to see if they are crispy enough. If desired, brush the wings with additional sauce from the bowl you mixed them in for extra flavor.
  • Once they are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the oven. Serve hot and watch them disappear!

Notes

  • Tip 1: 4 pounds of wings = about 20-24 wings.
Keyword BBQ Chicken Wings, Crockpot Wings, Easy Appetizer Recipes, Honey BBQ Wings

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