Honey Mustard Chicken Wings Recipe

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Cook Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 pounds chicken wing flats and drumettes (or whole wings separated into flats and drumettes, tips discarded)
• 2 tablespoons honey, or more if needed
• 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• Freshly black pepper to taste

Directions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients together to ensure you have everything needed before starting.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together cornstarch, cream of tartar, garlic powder, baking soda, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss them well to coat evenly with the dry mixture.

Step 4: Line a 10x15-inch baking pan with foil and place a wire cooling rack in the pan.

Step 5: Arrange the coated wings evenly on the rack. Make sure they are spaced out to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Chill the wings in the refrigerator, uncovered, for at least 4 hours, or up to 24 hours. This step ensures they crisp up well in the oven.

Step 7: Preheat your oven to 450F (230C). Lightly coat the wings with cooking spray to enhance their crispiness.

Step 8: Bake the wings on the wire rack in the pan, turning them occasionally for even cooking. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the wings are golden brown and crispy. An instant-read thermometer should read 165F (74C) when inserted into the thickest part of the wing (be sure not to touch the bone with the thermometer).

Step 9: While the wings are baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine honey and vinegar. Heat over low heat until the honey liquefies, stirring often.

Step 10: Remove the saucepan from the heat, then whisk in the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and yellow mustard. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Step 11: Once the wings are done, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the prepared sauce over the wings and toss to coat evenly.

Step 12: Serve the wings immediately, enjoying the deliciously crispy, tangy, and flavorful result!

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	210
Total Fat	16g (20% DV)
Saturated Fat	3g (17% DV)
Cholesterol	22mg (7% DV)
Sodium	913mg (40% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	14g (5% DV)
Dietary Fiber	1g (3% DV)
Total Sugars	9g
Protein	4g (8% DV)
Vitamin C	1mg (1% DV)
Calcium	18mg (1% DV)
Iron	1mg (4% DV)
Potassium	268mg (6% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Origins of Honey Mustard Chicken Wings

Honey mustard chicken wings are a modern twist on the classic American chicken wing. While traditional wings often feature buffalo or barbecue flavors, the combination of honey and mustard creates a sweet-and-savory glaze that has grown increasingly popular since the late 20th century. The idea of pairing honey with mustard originates from European culinary traditions, particularly French and German cuisine, where mustard-based sauces often included sweet elements to balance acidity and spice. The adaptation to chicken wings likely emerged in American kitchens looking to diversify the wing flavor profile beyond hot sauce and barbecue.

Regional Variations

Across the United States, honey mustard wings exhibit subtle regional differences. In the Midwest, the sauce tends to be sweeter, with more honey to create a sticky, caramelized coating. Southern recipes often add a touch of cayenne or smoked paprika, giving the wings a slightly spicy and smoky dimension. Coastal cities may incorporate Dijon mustard for a sharper, more tangy bite, while some urban fusion restaurants combine honey mustard with Asian-inspired ingredients like soy sauce or ginger for a unique flavor experience. Despite these variations, the core elements of honey, mustard, and chicken remain consistent.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional buffalo wings, which rely heavily on hot sauce and butter, honey mustard wings are characterized by a balanced sweetness that offsets the tang of mustard. Barbecue wings, by contrast, focus on smoky and tomato-based flavors, while honey garlic wings emphasize garlics pungency alongside sweetness. The distinguishing feature of honey mustard wings is their creamy yet sticky glaze, often enhanced with mayonnaise or Dijon mustard, which sets them apart from other sticky-sauced wings that lack the complex interplay of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.

Typical Serving Occasions

Honey mustard chicken wings are versatile and appear in a variety of settings. They are commonly served as appetizers at casual parties, game-day gatherings, and family dinners. Many pubs and sports bars feature them as a menu staple, often alongside fries, coleslaw, or dipping sauces. Unlike buffalo wings, which are frequently associated with spicy eating challenges, honey mustard wings appeal to a broader audience due to their mild and approachable flavor, making them popular in both adult and kid-friendly menus.

Fun and Interesting Facts

• The honey mustard combination has been used in cooking for centuries, but its application to chicken wings is a distinctly American innovation.
• When baked rather than fried, honey mustard wings achieve a crispy exterior without excessive oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried wings.
• Some restaurants create double-glaze versions, brushing the wings with sauce during and after baking to intensify flavor and shine.
• Honey mustard wings are often paired with light, crisp beverages such as lager or sparkling cider to complement their sweet and tangy profile.
• In competitive eating and culinary contests, honey mustard wings are praised for their balance of flavors, offering complexity without overwhelming heat.

FAQ about Honey Mustard Chicken Wings Recipe

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