Sticky Sesame Chicken Wing Heaven

Name: Sticky Sesame Chicken Wing Heaven
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup sesame seeds; 2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Everyday Meals

I absolutely love making Sticky Sesame Chicken Wings, and this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. With just the right balance of sweetness and a touch of savory, each bite gives me a satisfying crunch. I like to serve these wings during game nights or family gatherings, as they’re always a crowd-pleaser. The beauty of this recipe lies in the simplicity of marinating the wings and then baking them to caramelized perfection. I can’t wait for you to try them!

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-01-17T13:58:27.318Z

When I first attempted this Sticky Sesame Chicken Wings recipe, I was blown away by how simply delicious it was. I decided to experiment with different marinades, finally settling on a combination of soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil that perfectly complemented the chicken. Baking them instead of frying not only makes them healthier but also leaves a delightful crunch!

One essential tip I discovered is to let the chicken wings marinate for at least an hour or preferably overnight. This enhances the flavor and tenderness, giving you that finger-licking goodness that everyone craves. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly sticky and sweet with a savory kick
Crispy exterior with tender, juicy meat
Easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion

      

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade is the heart of these Sticky Sesame Chicken Wings, bringing together flavors that deeply penetrate the meat. I recommend allowing the wings to marinate for at least one hour, but if time permits, refrigerating them overnight will elevate the taste even further. This not only enhances absorption of the savory and sweet notes from the soy sauce and honey but also makes the wings incredibly tender. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of red chili flakes to the marinade for a gentle heat.

When mixing your marinade, ensure the honey is fully dissolved. A good trick is to heat the honey slightly (in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds) to make it easier to blend with the soy sauce and sesame oil. This ensures that each wing gets an even coating, and the flavors meld beautifully together. Also, don't hesitate to taste the marinade before adding the wings; this allows you to adjust the sweetness or savoriness to your preference.

Baking to Perfection

Achieving crispy chicken wings in the oven can be a bit tricky, but there are a few techniques to ensure success. Start by arranging the wings in a single layer on your baking sheet without overcrowding them. This allows for optimal air circulation, helping the wings to crisp up nicely as they bake. Flip the wings halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness on both sides. Look for a golden brown color with crisp edges as your visual cue that they are ready to come out of the oven.

If you desire an extra crunch, consider broiling the wings for the last few minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on them, as they can quickly go from perfect to burnt under the broiler. Remember also to let the wings rest briefly before serving; this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist and flavorful. I love serving them alongside a cooling dipping sauce to balance the sweetness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

For the Chicken Wings

2 pounds chicken wings
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup sesame seeds
2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps for scrumptious wings:

Marinate the Wings

In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper. Add the chicken wings and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Bake the Wings

Arrange the marinated wings on the baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.

Add the Glaze

Once baked, remove the wings from the oven and drizzle with the remaining marinade. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm. Enjoy your Sticky Sesame Chicken Wings!

Your wings are ready to wow your friends and family!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a hint of spice.

Storage and Reheating

If you're fortunate enough to have leftovers, storing them correctly is key to maintaining their deliciousness. Allow the Sticky Sesame Chicken Wings to cool to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method helps retain their crispy texture, rather than using the microwave which can make them soggy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the wings. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible, and they can last for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, simply bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they're hot and crispy again. Enjoying these wings again feels like a delicious treat, even days later.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe is fantastic as is, there's always room for experimentation! For those looking to switch things up, try adding a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick. Alternatively, incorporating a splash of orange juice or zest can introduce a refreshing citrus note that complements the sweetness beautifully. You can also substitute chicken wings with drumsticks or boneless thighs for different textures; just adjust cooking times accordingly, as larger pieces may require more time to cook through.

Another fun variation involves changing the seeds you use. While sesame seeds are traditional, adding poppy seeds or a mix of both can give an interesting crunch and visual appeal. For a bit of extra umami, sprinkle the baked wings with toasted nori flakes just before serving. These variations allow you to keep the basic recipe fresh and exciting, catering to different tastes and preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, just ensure to thaw them completely before marinating.

→ How can I make these wings spicier?

Add some sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.

→ Can I grill the wings instead of baking them?

Absolutely! Grill the marinated wings over medium heat until cooked through and crispy.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.