This chicken wing marinade is simple to whip up and bursting with flavor! It combines zesty spices with a touch of sweetness, making every bite taste amazing.
Honestly, my wings always taste better when I let them soak in this marinade. Plus, it leaves your kitchen smelling heavenly while they cook! Can’t wait for you to try it! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: I recommend using fresh or frozen chicken wings. If you can’t find wings, drumsticks or bone-in thighs can work just as well. You can also try using plant-based wings if you want a vegetarian option.
Soy Sauce: This adds a nice umami flavor. You can use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the salt content down or even tamari if you’re gluten-free. Alternatively, coconut aminos offer a soy-free option with a slightly sweeter profile.
Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil gives good flavor. If you’re looking for a neutral taste, you can swap with canola or avocado oil. These oils have high smoke points, making them great for roasting wings.
Honey: Honey pairs beautifully with savory flavors. Maple syrup can replace it for a vegan option, or you could use agave nectar for sweetness without the bee products.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a strong flavor, but garlic powder can be a convenient substitute if you don’t have fresh on hand. Just use about 1/4 teaspoon for each clove.
How Do I Ensure Even Cooking and Crispy Wings?
To get those deliciously crispy wings, follow these tips:
- Make sure to marinate the wings for at least 2 hours, though overnight is best. This helps them absorb all those great flavors.
- When baking, use parchment paper on the baking sheet. It prevents sticking and helps with cleanup.
- Space the wings out in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding, so they bake evenly and crisp up nicely.
- Turn the wings halfway through cooking. This helps both sides get that golden color and crunchy exterior.
- Watch the cooking time closely; every oven is different. Wings should be golden and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How to Make Chicken Wing Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken wing marinade recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours for marinating in the fridge. If you can, let them marinate overnight for the best flavor. Cooking time is about 40-45 minutes in the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if you’d like some heat). This is where the flavor magic begins!
2. Marinate the Chicken Wings:
Now, add the chicken wings to the marinade. Make sure they’re all well-coated. To store it, either cover the bowl with plastic wrap or pop everything into a resealable plastic bag. Place it in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
3. Bake the Wings:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze. Take the wings out of the marinade and arrange them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Time to Cook:
Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. Make sure to turn them halfway through cooking to ensure they’re crispy and golden brown on all sides. Once they’re done, take them out and let them rest for a few minutes.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the wings for a fresh touch. Enjoy your delicious and flavorful chicken wings with your favorite dipping sauce!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Wings?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work well in this marinade, just keep in mind that they may require a longer cooking time. Bake them for about 50-55 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Apple Cider Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar, lemon juice, or rice vinegar. Each option will add a different flavor, but all will work great in this marinade.
How Long Can I Marinate the Wings?
You can marinate the wings for as little as 2 hours, but for the best flavor, marinating overnight is ideal. If you’re short on time, aim for at least 4 hours!
How Should I Store Leftover Wings?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy again.
