If you’re craving a finger-licking snack that’s bursting with sweet, savory, and just a touch of heat, the Baked Sesame Sticky Wings Recipe is your new best friend. These wings are perfectly caramelized with pure maple syrup and soy sauce, kissed by fragrant ginger and garlic, and finished with a delightful crunch from toasted sesame seeds. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just treating yourself, this recipe transforms simple wings into an irresistible experience your taste buds will thank you for.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these wings just right is all about the harmony of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a starring role, from the tender chicken to the sticky, aromatic glaze.
- 2 pounds chicken wingettes and drumettes: Choose fresh, quality wings for the perfect texture and juicy bite.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances natural flavors without overpowering the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick of warmth.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the wings with deep, savory notes.
- ½ cup pure maple syrup: Provides that signature sticky sweetness and caramelizes beautifully.
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce: Balances the sweetness with a rich, umami saltiness.
- 1½ tablespoons ginger paste or 1 tablespoon freshly ground ginger: Lends a refreshing zing and an aromatic punch.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper (red pepper flakes): Gives just the right amount of heat to keep things exciting.
- 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds: Adds a nutty crunch that seals the flavor deal.
- 2 scallions or green onions (thinly sliced at an angle): For a fresh, vibrant garnish that visually pops.
How to Make Baked Sesame Sticky Wings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Marinade Bags
Start by placing two 2-gallon sized resealable plastic bags inside each other. This double layer ensures no leaks when tossing the wings with the marinade, keeping your fridge spotless and your wings fully coated.
Step 2: Season the Wings
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to help them crisp up during baking. Lightly sprinkle kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper onto the wings for seasoning that goes beyond just the marinade.
Step 3: Combine Marinade Ingredients
Inside the inner plastic bag, pour in the salt, black pepper, minced garlic, maple syrup, soy sauce, ginger paste, and crushed red pepper flakes. This mix creates the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy that defines the Baked Sesame Sticky Wings Recipe.
Step 4: Marinate the Chicken
Add the wings to the marinade bag, zip it closed squeezing out air, then seal the outer bag for extra protection. Gently toss the chicken to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated with the sticky, flavorful marinade.
Step 5: Refrigerate
Let your wings soak in all that goodness by refrigerating for at least one hour or, even better, overnight. This step deepens the flavors, making each bite irresistible.
Step 6: Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish
Once marinated, heat your oven to 425°F. Line a medium baking dish with parchment paper or lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking while allowing the wings to crisp up beautifully.
Step 7: Bake and Baste
Arrange the wings in the dish with a little space between each piece to help them cook evenly. Pour any leftover marinade over the wings for extra flavor. Bake for 20 minutes, then flip each wing and brush with the pan drippings to develop that sticky glaze that glistens.
Step 8: Add Sesame Seeds and Finish Baking
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the wings and return them to the oven for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This final bake thickens the sauce into a luscious caramelized coating, perfectly sticky and irresistibly shiny.
Step 9: Rest and Garnish
Remove your wings from the oven and let them cool slightly — this brief pause lets the glaze set just enough without losing any of that sticky goodness. Finish with a sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions for a fresh, bright contrast.
How to Serve Baked Sesame Sticky Wings Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the green onions, feel free to add a few extra toasted sesame seeds for that visual crunch. A light drizzle of sriracha mayo or a scattering of finely chopped cilantro can elevate the appearance and add complementary flavors to the wings.
Side Dishes
These wings shine next to crunchy cucumber salad, steamed jasmine rice, or even a tangy coleslaw that cuts through the sticky sweetness. For something heartier, roasted sweet potatoes or garlic noodles make fabulous companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Baked Sesame Sticky Wings Recipe on a rustic wooden board with dipping sauces like spicy peanut or hoisin sauce in small bowls. Add edible flowers or sliced radishes to the platter to turn a casual snack into a show-stopping centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover wings in an airtight container placed in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy them as a quick snack or added to salads the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze baked wings by wrapping them tightly in foil or placing in a freezer-safe container. For best quality, consume within two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the wings in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes to restore their crispy exterior and sticky glaze. Avoid microwaving to keep that delicious texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken wings for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in wingettes and drumettes are perfect here because they stay juicy while baking and absorb the marinade beautifully.
Is it possible to make this recipe spicier?
Yes, you can easily increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinade to suit your preferred heat level.
Can I prepare the wings without maple syrup?
While maple syrup adds a unique sweetness and sticky texture, you can substitute with honey or agave nectar. Each will give a slightly different flavor but still delicious results.
Do I need to marinate the wings overnight?
Overnight marinating is ideal for the deepest flavor, but a minimum of one hour will still infuse your wings with plenty of savory-sweet goodness.
How can I make the sesame seeds more flavorful?
Toasting the sesame seeds before sprinkling intensifies their nutty flavor and adds an appealing crunch that complements the sticky coating perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Sesame Sticky Wings Recipe quickly becomes a staple because of how effortlessly it combines bold flavors and a crave-worthy texture. Whether it’s a casual night in or a gathering with friends, these wings are guaranteed crowd-pleasers that you’ll want to make again and again. So grab those ingredients and get ready for sticky, sweet, and savory bliss!
