If you are ready to take your snack game to a whole new level, the Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Wings with BBQ Hot Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine crispy, smoky bacon hugging juicy chicken wings, all coated in a tangy, spicy BBQ hot sauce that wakes up your taste buds with every bite. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a game day, a casual party, or just treating yourself to a deliciously indulgent meal. The combination of flavors and textures in this recipe is nothing short of spectacular, making it an instant favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Wings with BBQ Hot Sauce Recipe lies in how simple yet harmonious the ingredients are. Each one is critical to achieving that perfect balance of smoky, sweet, spicy, and savory flavors that make these wings irresistible.
- 4 lbs chicken wing drumette or flats pieces: The star of the dish, offering tender, juicy meat that pairs perfectly with bacon.
- 2 Tbsp BBQ seasoning: Adds smoky depth and subtle spices that enhance the chicken’s flavor.
- 1 lb bacon (cut in half): Crispens and wraps around the wings to lock in moisture and add that unbeatable smoky crunch.
- ½ cup BBQ sauce: Brings a tangy, sweet essence that complements the savory bacon and chicken.
- ½ cup hot sauce: Provides the fiery kick that makes each bite exciting and addictive.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Wings with BBQ Hot Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Setup
Start by preheating your oven to 425ºF, which is just the right temperature to crisp the bacon nicely without drying out the chicken. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil to catch drippings and make clean-up a breeze. Then place a wire rack over the baking sheet, allowing air to circulate and crisp all sides of the wings evenly.
Step 2: Season and Wrap the Wings
Generously sprinkle the wings with BBQ seasoning, making sure each piece is coated well for maximum flavor. This seasoning not only enhances taste but also creates a beautiful color on the wings. Wrap each wing with half a slice of bacon, snugly but not too tight, so the bacon crisps up perfectly and keeps the wing juicy inside.
Step 3: Bake Until Perfectly Cooked
Arrange the bacon-wrapped wings on the wire rack in a single layer. Bake them for 50 to 60 minutes, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165ºF to ensure safety and tenderness. During this time, the bacon renders its fat, crisps up, and infuses the chicken with irresistible smoky goodness.
Step 4: Toss in the BBQ Hot Sauce
While the wings cook, whisk together the BBQ sauce and hot sauce in a large bowl. Once the wings are done, immediately toss them in this vibrant sauce mix. This final step adds a tangy, spicy glaze that perfectly balances the smoky bacon and tender chicken, creating wings that are bursting with flavor and absolutely mouthwatering.
How to Serve Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Wings with BBQ Hot Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and add an extra punch of freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the wings. Thin slices of green onions also work brilliantly, lending a mild sharpness that complements the spicy BBQ sauce beautifully. These simple garnishes make the dish look as fantastic as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Pair these flavorful wings with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, buttery cornbread, or a crisp green salad for a refreshing counterpoint. Crispy sweet potato fries or roasted vegetables are fantastic options too. These sides soak up the sauce and provide contrasting textures that enhance the overall meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings or game day, serve your Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Wings with BBQ Hot Sauce Recipe on a large wooden board surrounded by colorful dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or extra BBQ sauce. Add some lemon or lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze. You can even skewer the wings for easy grabbing—perfect for casual entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep the sauce separate if you want to avoid soggy bacon before reheating.
Freezing
If you want to keep these wings for longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe container or bag after cooling completely. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much flavor or texture. Be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
To reheat and maintain crispiness, place wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet and warm in a 350ºF oven for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the bacon soggy. Adding a quick re-toss in fresh BBQ hot sauce right before serving recreates that fresh, saucy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon is a leaner alternative and can be used if you prefer. However, it has less fat, so the wings might not be quite as crispy or rich in flavor. Keep an eye on cooking times as it may crisp faster.
What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I skip the hot sauce?
Absolutely! You can simply use all BBQ sauce or swap the hot sauce for a milder variety to keep it flavorful without the heat. The wings will still be delicious and full of smoky, tangy goodness.
Is it necessary to use a wire rack for baking?
Using a wire rack is highly recommended because it lets the heat circulate evenly around the wings, ensuring the bacon crisps on all sides and the chicken cooks uniformly. Without it, the bottoms may get soggy.
Can I make this recipe on the grill instead of the oven?
Definitely! Wrapping the wings in bacon and grilling them over medium heat will give a fantastic smoky flavor. Just watch carefully to avoid flare-ups from the dripping fat. Turn often to cook evenly and crisp up the bacon.
How spicy is this Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Wings with BBQ Hot Sauce Recipe?
The spice level is moderate, thanks to the balanced combination of BBQ sauce and hot sauce. If you want it milder, reduce the hot sauce or choose a less spicy brand. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Final Thoughts
There is truly nothing like the joy of biting into Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Wings with BBQ Hot Sauce Recipe—crispy, smoky, sticky, and spicy all at once. It’s the kind of recipe that brings smiles, sparks conversation, and leaves everyone reaching for one more wing. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe soon. Your taste buds will thank you, and your guests will be begging for seconds!
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Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Wings with BBQ Hot Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 to 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Wings are a deliciously smoky and spicy appetizer perfect for gatherings and game day. Wrapped in crisp bacon and coated with a tangy BBQ and hot sauce glaze, they deliver a perfect balance of savory, smoky, and spicy flavors baked to crispy perfection.
Ingredients
Chicken Wings
- 4 lb chicken wing drumettes or flats
- 2 Tbsp BBQ seasoning
- 1 lb bacon, cut in half
Sauce
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- ½ cup hot sauce
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC). Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top to allow air circulation under the wings for even cooking and crispiness. Set this aside.
- Season and wrap wings: Season the chicken wings evenly with the BBQ seasoning. Then, take half slices of bacon and wrap each wing individually, securing the bacon around the wing. Place each wrapped wing on the prepared wire rack on the baking sheet.
- Bake the wings: Bake the bacon-wrapped wings in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. Make sure to bake until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165ºF (74ºC) for safety and the bacon is crisp.
- Make and toss in sauce: While the wings bake, whisk together the BBQ sauce and hot sauce in a large bowl to create a flavorful glaze. Once the wings are done baking, place them in the bowl with the sauce and toss thoroughly to coat each wing evenly with the spicy BBQ mixture.
Notes
- Ensure wings reach a safe internal temperature of 165ºF to avoid any risk of undercooked poultry.
- Use a meat thermometer for best results.
- For extra crispiness, broil the wings for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Adjust hot sauce quantity to control the heat level according to your preference.
