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If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer that’s bursting with flavor, these Wet Wet Wings are the answer! Perfect for game days, parties, or any gathering, these wings are crispy, saucy, and irresistibly delicious. Coated in a homemade Wet Wet Sauce that combines the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, these wings will have everyone reaching for more. Plus, they’re made in the air fryer for a healthier twist without sacrificing crunch.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Saucy: The Wet Wet Sauce is a flavor explosion that clings to every wing.
- Crispy and Juicy: Air frying ensures the wings are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a breeze.
- Crowd-Pleasing: These wings are always a hit at parties and gatherings.
- Healthier Option: Air frying uses less oil than traditional frying, making these wings a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients Breakdown:
For the Wings:
- Chicken wings and drumettes: The star of the dish, offering a tender bite with crispy skin after air frying.
- Oil, salt, and pepper: Basic seasoning that enhances the natural flavor and ensures a crispy texture.
For the Wet Wet Sauce:
- Hot sauce & honey: These two ingredients provide the perfect balance of heat and sweetness.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create a smooth, glossy sauce.
- Soy sauce & Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic powder, onion powder, & smoked paprika: Layers of savory and smoky flavor that make the sauce irresistible.
For Garnishing:
- Green onions & sesame seeds: Optional garnishes that add crunch and fresh flavor, elevating the dish.
Tips and Tricks
- Double the Sauce: If you love extra saucy wings, make a double batch of the Wet Wet Sauce.
- Crispier Wings: Pat the wings dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Oven Option: If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the wings at 425°F (220°C) for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Adjust the Heat: Use mild hot sauce for a kid-friendly version or add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra spice.
Variations and Customizations
- Sticky Garlic Parmesan: Add grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic to the sauce for a cheesy twist.
- Asian-Inspired: Swap the Wet Wet Sauce for a mix of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sriracha.
- BBQ Style: Use your favorite BBQ sauce instead of the Wet Wet Sauce for a smoky, tangy flavor.
- Spicy Mango: Add mango puree and a squeeze of lime juice to the sauce for a tropical kick.
Pairing Suggestions
- Dips: Serve with ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or a cool cucumber yogurt sauce.
- Sides: Pair with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh garden salad.
- Drinks: Enjoy with a cold beer, a margarita, or a refreshing iced tea.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked, unsauced wings for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating and saucing.
Popular Questions
1. Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, but thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and air frying.
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2. How do I make the wings less spicy?
Use a mild hot sauce and reduce or omit the smoked paprika.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Wet Wet Sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently before using.
Wet Wet Wings
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A saucy and flavorful twist on classic wings, these Wet Wet Wings are coated in a rich, spicy, and sweet sauce that’s perfect for gatherings, game days, or a tasty snack!
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Ingredients
Scale
For the Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings and drumettes (the perfect party-sized portions)
- 1 tablespoon oil (helps crisp up the wings)
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt (for seasoning)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adds a hint of spice)
- 1 cup Wet Wet Sauce (see recipe below)
- ½ bunch green onions, green parts only, sliced (optional, for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for added crunch and presentation)
For the Wet Wet Sauce:
- ½ cup hot sauce (choose your favorite brand for the heat level you prefer)
- ½ cup honey (adds natural sweetness to balance the heat)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for richness and a glossy finish)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (adds umami depth)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for a tangy, savory kick)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (enhances the savory flavor)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (adds a subtle sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky undertone)
Instructions
Prepare the Wet Wet Sauce:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the hot sauce, honey, butter, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Season the Wings:
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Air Fry the Wings:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the seasoned wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded.
- Air fry for 20 to 25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the wings are cooked through and crispy.
4. Sauce the Wings:
- Once the wings are done, transfer them to a large bowl.
- Pour the prepared Wet Wet Sauce over the wings and toss until they are thoroughly coated.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- If desired, sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the sauced wings for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a glossy finish, toss the wings in the sauce immediately after cooking.
- If you prefer extra sticky wings, broil the sauced wings for 2-3 minutes after air frying.
- Always taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your preference before tossing with the wings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: 4 servings
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
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