Get ready to take your taste buds on a wild ride, y’all! I’m about to show you how to whip up a batch of Smoky Maple Bourbon Glazed Wings that will have your friends and family begging for more. This dish is an epic fusion of sweet, savory, and downright addictive flavors that’s sure to become your new favorite game-day grub or party appetizer. Buckle up, because we’re about to turn your kitchen into a flavor paradise!
Why You’ll Love This Smoky Maple Bourbon Glazed Wings
These wings are the ultimate indulgence for the bold and fearless foodie. The smoky-sweet glaze made with real maple syrup and smooth bourbon creates an explosion of mouthwatering flavors in every bite. The wings themselves are perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making for a truly sensational and satisfying experience. Plus, this recipe is easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd, so you can be the hero of your next gathering. Trust me, once you try these wings, you’ll be hooked for life!
Ingredients
To whip up these epic Smoky Maple Bourbon Glazed Wings, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients: chicken wings, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, maple syrup, and bourbon. That’s it! The combination of these bold flavors creates a truly mind-blowing dish that’s sure to blow your taste buds away.
- 3 lbs (1.4 kg) – Chicken wings
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) – Olive oil
- 2 tsp (10 ml) – Smoked paprika
- 1 tsp (5 ml) – Garlic powder
- 1 tsp (5 ml) – Salt
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) – Black pepper
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) – Maple syrup
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) – Bourbon
Ingredient Substitutions
- Smoked Paprika: Regular paprika (adds a more subtle flavor)
- Bourbon: Whiskey or dark rum (for a similar bold, oaky taste)
How to Make Smoky Maple Bourbon Glazed Wings
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process for making these epic wings! Get ready to turn your kitchen into a flavor paradise.
Step 1: Prep Work
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels, then toss them in a large bowl with the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Spread the seasoned wings out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Bake the wings for 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden brown. While the wings are baking, prepare the epic glaze in a small saucepan. Combine the maple syrup and bourbon, and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the glaze has thickened slightly.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the smoky maple bourbon glaze over the top. Toss the wings gently until they’re evenly coated in the delicious sauce. Serve the wings immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the glaze for a spicy twist.
- Crispier Texture: Toss the wings in a bit of cornstarch before baking for an even crispier exterior.
- Bourbon Swap: Swap the bourbon for dark rum or whiskey for a different flavor profile.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve the wings with a creamy blue cheese or ranch dipping sauce on the side.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: Celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a refreshing cocktail or beer.
Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat the wings in the oven or air fryer before serving.
Make-Ahead: The smoky maple bourbon glaze can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Nutrition Information
These Smoky Maple Bourbon Glazed Wings are a high-protein, flavor-packed snack that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
- Serving Size: About 5-6 wings
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 24 g
- Carbs: 34 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make the wings extra crispy?
For the crispiest wings, be sure to pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning and baking. You can also try tossing the wings in a bit of cornstarch or baking powder before baking.
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of wings?
Absolutely! You can use this same recipe with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as breasts and thighs will cook faster than wings.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely prepare the smoky maple bourbon glaze in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the glaze until it’s warm and pourable.
How spicy are these wings?
This recipe doesn’t call for any particularly spicy ingredients, so the wings themselves aren’t very spicy. However, you can easily amp up the heat by adding a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the glaze.
Can I grill the wings instead of baking them?
Absolutely! Grilled Smoky Maple Bourbon Glazed Wings would be absolutely epic. Grill the wings over medium-high heat for 20-25 minutes, flipping occasionally, until they’re crispy and cooked through. Then toss them in the glaze and serve.
Try These Next
- Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wing Bites
- Maple Whiskey Glazed Chicken Wings With Spicy Honey Drizzle
- Fiery Maple Chili Garlic Sauce Glazed Chicken Wings
Smoky Maple Bourbon Glazed Wings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Smoky Maple Bourbon Glazed Wings are a perfect blend of sweet and smoky flavors, making them an irresistible treat for lunch or any gathering.
Ingredients
2 pounds chicken wings
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup bourbon
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, combine maple syrup, bourbon, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce.
3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are well coated.
4. Place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
6. Broil for an additional 5 minutes to get a crispy finish.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the wings in the glaze overnight before baking.
Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 wings
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: wings, bourbon, maple, smoky