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Sticky Maple Apple Chicken Wings

Sticky Maple Apple Chicken Wings

The Crispy Chef
Sticky maple apple chicken wings are oven-baked to crispy perfection and tossed in a sticky glaze made with maple syrup and apple cider. The sweet-savory flavor, subtle heat, and caramelized finish make these perfect for game day or a cozy fall dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American, Fall
Servings 4 servings
Calories 720 kcal

Equipment

  • Large baking sheet with wire rack
  • Aluminum foil
  • Large bowl
  • Small saucepan
  • Pastry brush (optional)
  • Tongs

Ingredients
  

  • 3 lbs chicken wings (whole or separated)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 0.5 cup pure maple syrup
  • 0.5 cup apple cider (unfiltered preferred)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced (optional)
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
  • sesame seeds, for garnish
  • chopped parsley and green onions, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray with cooking spray.
  • Pat chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. Toss with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and baking powder until evenly coated.
  • Place wings on wire rack in a single layer. Bake 45–50 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
  • In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and optional ginger; cook 1 minute. Add maple syrup, apple cider, brown sugar, vinegar, mustard, and soy sauce. Simmer 10–15 minutes to reduce slightly.
  • Add cayenne, red pepper flakes (if using), and black pepper. Stir in cornstarch slurry. Simmer 1–2 more minutes until thickened.
  • Toss crispy wings in ¾ of the glaze in a clean bowl until fully coated. Return to rack and bake 5–7 more minutes to caramelize.
  • Transfer to serving platter. Drizzle with reserved glaze and garnish with sesame seeds, chopped herbs, and green onions. Serve hot with apple slices and ranch or blue cheese.

Notes

Pat the wings dry for maximum crispiness. Don't skip the baking powder—it’s the key to that golden skin. Want a spicier version? Double the cayenne or add a splash of sriracha. For extra wow factor, try bacon-wrapped or grilled variations!

Nutrition

Calories: 720kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 48gFat: 44gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 195mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 520mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 720IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 45mgIron: 2.5mg
Keyword apple cider glaze, fall chicken wings, maple chicken wings, sticky wings
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