If you are looking for a finger-licking, crave-worthy appetizer that packs a punch of flavor, then this Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Hot Sauce Chicken Wings Recipe is calling your name. It brings together crispy, smoky bacon and juicy chicken wings glazed in a tangy, spicy blend of barbecue and hot sauce that’s downright addictive. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just want a seriously tasty snack, these wings hit all the right notes with their irresistible combination of textures and bold flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things delightfully simple with a handful of ingredients that each play a vital role. From seasoning to sauce, every component builds layers of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors that make these wings unforgettable.
- 4 pounds chicken wing drumettes or flats: Choose fresh wings for the best texture and juiciness.
- 2 tablespoons BBQ seasoning: This adds a smoky, savory base that infuses the wings before baking.
- 1 pound bacon (cut in half): Wrapping wings in bacon ensures crispiness and a delicious smoky richness.
- ½ cup BBQ sauce: Provides a sweet, tangy flavor that balances the heat of the hot sauce.
- ½ cup hot sauce: Brings the signature spicy kick that makes these wings addictive.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Hot Sauce Chicken Wings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 425ºF. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, then set a wire rack on top. This setup allows air to circulate around the wings, helping the bacon crisp up beautifully from all sides.
Step 2: Season and Wrap the Wings
Next, generously season each chicken wing with the BBQ seasoning. This step is crucial because it layers in that smoky, savory flavor. Then, take half a slice of bacon and wrap it around each wing snugly. Place the wrapped wings on your prepared wire rack, giving them space so they cook evenly and the bacon becomes wonderfully crisp.
Step 3: Bake Until Perfection
Bake your wings for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature hits 165ºF. The bacon will get crispy, and the chicken will remain juicy thanks to the careful cooking method. Keep an eye on them towards the end to ensure the bacon doesn’t burn while crisping to perfection.
Step 4: Toss Wings in BBQ-Hot Sauce Glaze
While the wings are baking, whisk together the BBQ sauce and hot sauce in a large bowl. Once the wings are out of the oven, add them straight into the sauce and gently toss until each wing is coated in that luscious glaze. This final step seals in moisture and adds a tantalizing kick that brings the whole dish together.
How to Serve Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Hot Sauce Chicken Wings Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your wings’ presentation and flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top. A dash of sesame seeds adds a lovely crunch and visual appeal. You can also serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze that brightens the rich flavors.
Side Dishes
These wings pair wonderfully with classic comfort sides like creamy coleslaw or crunchy celery sticks with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. For something heartier, crispy fries or corn on the cob complement the smoky, spicy notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Hot Sauce Chicken Wings Recipe on a wooden platter lined with parchment paper for that casual, rustic feel. For parties, arrange them around a bowl of dipping sauce to encourage everyone to grab and enjoy. You could even thread wings on skewers for easy handling and a fun presentation twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, allow the wings to cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact and preserves the bacon’s texture as much as possible.
Freezing
To freeze, place the cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your wings in a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 10-15 minutes. This reheats them evenly while crisping the bacon once again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon soggy and the wings less tasty.
FAQs
Can I use chicken wings with the skin on or off?
For this recipe, chicken wings with the skin on work best as the skin helps retain moisture and crisps up nicely under the bacon, adding more texture and flavor.
Is it necessary to use both BBQ sauce and hot sauce?
Combining BBQ sauce with hot sauce creates a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors. You can adjust the ratio to your taste or even try different types of hot sauce for unique variations.
What if I don’t have a wire rack?
If you don’t have a wire rack, you can place wings directly on a foil-lined baking sheet, but flip them halfway through baking to crisp the bacon evenly on all sides.
How do I know when the wings are cooked through?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165ºF. The bacon should be crisp and golden as a good visual clue.
Can I make these wings spicy for kids?
If cooking for kids, reduce or omit the hot sauce, or substitute with a mild version. The bacon and BBQ seasoning still deliver tons of flavor without overwhelming heat.
Final Thoughts
This Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Hot Sauce Chicken Wings Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser with its perfect mix of smoky bacon, spicy heat, and tangy barbecue glaze. It’s straightforward to prepare but packed full of flavor, making it the ultimate wing recipe to share with friends and family. Give it a try and watch these wings disappear in no time—you’ll be craving them again before you know it!
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Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Hot Sauce Chicken Wings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 pieces
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These bacon-wrapped chicken wings are a flavorful and irresistible appetizer featuring juicy chicken wings seasoned with BBQ spices, wrapped in crispy bacon, baked to perfection, and tossed in a tangy blend of barbecue and hot sauces. Perfect for parties, game days, or a savory snack.
Ingredients
Chicken Wings
- 4 lb chicken wing drumettes or flats pieces
- 2 Tbsp BBQ seasoning
Bacon Wrapping
- 1 lb bacon (cut in half)
Sauce
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- ½ cup hot sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This setup allows the wings to cook evenly and the bacon fat to drip away for crispiness.
- Season and Wrap Wings: Season the chicken wings evenly with BBQ seasoning. Then, take each wing and wrap it tightly with a half slice of bacon. Arrange the bacon-wrapped wings on the prepared wire rack on the baking sheet, spacing them out so they cook evenly.
- Bake the Wings: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC) and the bacon is crispy. This slower baking ensures thorough cooking and crispy bacon.
- Prepare and Toss with Sauce: While the wings bake, whisk together the barbecue sauce and hot sauce in a large bowl to make a tangy, spicy glaze. When the wings are done, transfer them to the bowl and toss thoroughly to coat each wing with the flavorful sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the wings for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking but watch closely to avoid burning.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to control the heat level according to your preference.
- If bacon slices are very thick, consider partially cooking them before wrapping to ensure thorough cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the wings reach a safe internal temperature of 165ºF.
