Balsamic Glazed Chicken Wings – A Sweet and Savory Delight
Chicken wings are a crowd favorite, whether served at game nights, family dinners, or as an irresistible appetizer at gatherings. This Balsamic Glazed Chicken Wings recipe takes the classic wing experience to a whole new level by combining tangy balsamic vinegar, rich brown sugar, and fragrant Italian seasoning. The result? Tender, juicy wings coated in a beautifully caramelized glaze that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for All Occasions – Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a weeknight meal, or meal-prepping for the week, these wings fit the bill.
- Balanced Flavors – The balsamic glaze offers a perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and savory notes that coat each wing beautifully.
- Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is accessible even for beginners.
- Versatile Pairing Options – Serve them as an appetizer, pair with a side of roasted veggies, or enjoy with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken wings
- 1 cup balsamic vinegar
- ½ cup cooking oil (vegetable oil, avocado oil, etc.)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp cornstarch
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper
- Small saucepan
- Serving bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken Wings
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, cooking oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Place the chicken wings in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour 1 cup of the marinade over the wings, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results). Stir occasionally to ensure even marination.
2. Bake the Chicken Wings
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Arrange the wings in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 40-50 minutes or until fully cooked, flipping halfway through for even browning.
3. Prepare the Balsamic Glaze
- While the wings are baking, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan.
- Stir in the cornstarch and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Coat and Serve
- Once the wings are done, transfer them to a serving bowl.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the wings, tossing them gently to coat.
- Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor.
- Serve immediately with your choice of sides and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Balsamic Glazed Chicken Wings
- For Extra Crispiness – Broil the wings for 3-5 minutes after baking for a crispier texture.
- Use a Wire Rack – Placing the wings on a wire rack over the baking sheet ensures even cooking and crispier skin.
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor – Overnight marination allows the wings to soak up more flavor.
- Double the Sauce – If you love extra glaze, make a double batch and reserve some for dipping!
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add ½ tsp of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Honey Balsamic Wings – Swap half of the brown sugar for honey to enhance sweetness.
- Air Fryer Method – Cook at 380°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Grilled Wings – Grill the marinated wings over medium heat for a smoky twist.
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F for 5 minutes.
What to Serve with Balsamic Glazed Chicken Wings
- Sides: Roasted Brussels sprouts, garlic mashed potatoes, or quinoa salad.
- Dipping Sauces: Ranch, blue cheese dressing, or extra balsamic glaze.
- Drinks: Pairs well with a glass of red wine, a cold beer, or a refreshing lemonade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute chicken thighs or tenders, but adjust the baking time accordingly (about 25-30 minutes).
Is there a substitute for balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, try using a mix of red wine vinegar and honey as an alternative.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure all ingredients (especially seasonings) are certified gluten-free if needed.
Can I make these wings ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the wings up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready.
What’s the best way to reheat these wings?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 5 minutes to keep them crispy.
Final Thoughts
These Balsamic Glazed Chicken Wings are a must-try for wing lovers who enjoy bold flavors with a touch of sweetness. Whether you’re preparing them for a party or just craving a satisfying meal, they are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try, and let us know what you think!
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