Baked Cherry-Glazed Chicken Wings are a sweet and savory treat perfect for game day, parties, or a fun family dinner. These wings are coated in a delicious cherry glaze that’s both tangy and slightly spicy. Let’s dive into the step-by-step recipe to create this flavorful dish.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cherry preserves
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
- Season Wings:
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Season the wings with salt and black pepper, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Bake Wings:
- Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the wings are golden brown and crispy, turning halfway through cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cherry Glaze
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cherry preserves, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Cook Glaze:
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer. Continue to cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
Step 3: Glaze the Chicken Wings
- Coat Wings:
- Remove the baked chicken wings from the oven. Brush the wings generously with the cherry glaze, coating them evenly.
- Bake Again:
- Return the glazed wings to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the wings are fully cooked.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate and Garnish:
- Transfer the glazed chicken wings to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, if desired.
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the Baked Cherry-Glazed Chicken Wings hot, with extra cherry glaze on the side for dipping.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Wing Preparation: For even cooking, ensure the wings are spaced apart on the wire rack.
- Glaze Consistency: If the glaze is too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, cook it longer to reduce and thicken.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness or omit them altogether for a milder glaze.
Variations
Spicy Cherry-Glazed Wings
- Add More Heat:
- Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the glaze for a spicier kick.
Ginger-Orange Cherry Wings
- Add Orange Juice:
- Replace the apple cider vinegar with orange juice and add 1 teaspoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist.
BBQ Cherry-Glazed Wings
- Add BBQ Sauce:
- Mix 1/4 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce into the cherry glaze for a smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
With Dipping Sauce
- Extra Glaze:
- Serve with extra cherry glaze or a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
With Sides
- Pair with Veggies:
- Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
As an Appetizer
- Party Platter:
- Include these wings on a party platter with other appetizers like mozzarella sticks, nachos, and sliders.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these wings ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bake the wings ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat and glaze them just before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze the wings? A: Yes, you can freeze the baked and glazed wings. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until hot and crispy.
Q: What if I don’t have cherry preserves? A: You can substitute cherry preserves with other fruit preserves such as apricot, raspberry, or plum.
Q: Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use boneless chicken tenders or thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
Baked Cherry-Glazed Chicken Wings are a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, these wings are sure to be a hit. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe with your loved ones!
