There’s a certain joy that comes with the sound of sizzling chicken in the oven, especially when it’s drizzled with a rich and irresistible sauce. The blend of smoky bourbon and sweet maple has a way of transforming ordinary chicken wings into a mouthwatering masterpiece. One evening, while contemplating what to bring to a friend’s gathering, I decided to experiment with flavors that dance on the palate and warm the heart.
That’s how these Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings were born—an easy yet impressive dish that tantalizes your taste buds and leaves everyone asking for the recipe. With just a handful of ingredients, they promise to elevate any gathering, whether it’s game day, a cozy night in, or a celebratory feast. Plus, the combination of fresh mint at the end adds a surprising flair that keeps your guests guessing. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, preheat that oven, and dive into this delightful culinary adventure together!
Why Love Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings?
Irresistible flavor: The unique combo of sweet maple syrup and smoky bourbon creates a taste explosion that elevates your chicken wings to gourmet status.
Crowd-pleaser: These wings are perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in, guaranteed to impress friends and family alike.
Easy prep: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks will shine in the kitchen.
Versatile: Customize the glaze to match your prefered level of sweetness or smokiness and serve it alongside anything from crispy veggies to fluffy mashed potatoes.
Fresh mint topper: This unexpected addition brings a refreshing touch that brightens each bite, setting your dish apart from traditional wings.
Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings Ingredients
For the Wings
• 2 pounds chicken wings – choose between fresh or frozen, just ensure they’re defrosted before cooking.
• 1 tablespoon grass-fed butter – it adds rich flavor and helps to caramelize the glaze beautifully.
For the Glaze
• ½ cup grated onion – this brings moisture and sweetness to the glaze, complementing the bourbon perfectly.
• 2 cloves garlic – minced garlic enhances the overall depth of flavor in these wings.
• ½ cup bourbon whisky – the star ingredient that provides a distinct smoky aroma.
• ½ cup maple syrup – adds a delightful sweetness to balance the richness of the wings.
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice – for a zesty twist that brightens the glaze.
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika – infuses that comforting smokiness and beautiful color into the wings.
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt – elevates flavors and ensures the wings are well-seasoned.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – adds a gentle kick to the overall flavor profile.
• small handful roughly chopped fresh mint – the fresh mint is a surprising yet delightful finish to these wings.
With just these essential ingredients, you’ll whip up a batch of Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings that are sure to wow your guests!
How to Make Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings
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Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF. Line a baking sheet with foil and give it a light greasing. This will prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup.
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Prepare the wings: If you’re using whole chicken wings, carefully cut away the wing tips and separate the drumettes from the other part of the wing. Rinse them under cool water and pat dry with a paper towel.
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Sauté the base: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in the grated onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 2 to 4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
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Mix the glaze: Stir in the minced garlic, bourbon, maple syrup, orange juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined, then bring this delicious mixture to a low simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes until slightly reduced and thickened—your kitchen will smell incredible!
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Season the wings: In a large mixing bowl, add the prepared chicken wings and sprinkle them with a bit more salt and pepper. This will ensure they are seasoned perfectly through and through.
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Coat the wings: Pour half of your luscious sauce over the wings, reserving the other half in the saucepan. Gently toss the wings to coat them evenly, then arrange them on the prepared pan with some space between each piece.
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Bake the wings: Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. Afterward, carefully turn the wings over and bake them for another 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overly browning.
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Thicken the remaining glaze: While the wings bake, simmer the reserved glaze on the stovetop over medium heat until it thickens nicely. Toss your wings in this additional glaze for a beautifully sticky finish.
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Serve crispy: Serve the wings immediately! For an extra crispy texture, you can place them under the broiler for a quick minute or two until they reach your desired char.
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Garnish and enjoy: Just before serving, sprinkle the fresh, roughly chopped mint over the wings to enhance their vibrant flavor profile.
Optional: Serve with a side of cool ranch dressing for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the wings and coat them in half of the sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to finish, simply preheat your oven, bake the wings as directed for about 20 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes. While they bake, thicken the remaining sauce on the stovetop, then toss the cooked wings in it for that extra layer of deliciousness. This method allows you to save time on busy weeknights while still serving up mouthwatering wings that taste just as delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings
Room Temperature: : For best flavor, serve your wings immediately after cooking. If left out, consume within 2 hours to avoid spoilage.
Fridge: : Store leftover maple bourbon glazed chicken wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to enjoy them again.
Freezer: : For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: : To revive the wings, warm them in a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This keeps them crispy and delicious!
What to Serve with Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings?
Creating a delightful meal goes beyond just the main dish; it’s about satisfying all the senses and delighting your guests at the table.
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Crispy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich wings. The crunch complements the wings perfectly, balancing the smoky sweetness of the glaze.
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Creamy Mac and Cheese: A classic comfort food, its velvety texture and cheesy goodness create a wonderful harmony with the bourbon flavor from the wings. Every bite feels like a warm embrace.
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Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob: The sweetness of fresh corn is intensified by garlic butter, adding depth to your meal. It’s an easy, visually appealing side that just begs for your attention.
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Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with honey mustard offer a savory-sweet bite that enhances the flavor profile of the wings. The slight bitterness of the sprouts beautifully balances the sweetness of the glaze.
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Baked Sweet Potatoes: These naturally sweet, fluffy morsels echo the maple notes in the wings while providing a comforting side. Top them with a sprinkling of cinnamon for extra warmth.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing salad made with crisp cucumbers and a tangy dressing cleanses the palate between bites. The coolness contrasts nicely with the warmth of the chicken wings.
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Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink complements the smoky notes of the wings beautifully. Its zesty sweetness refreshes the taste buds and enhances the overall dining experience.
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Chocolate Brownie Bites: These rich and fudgy desserts are a satisfying way to end your meal. Their sweet decadence pairs perfectly with the flavor complexity of the wings, making your gathering unforgettable.
Expert Tips for Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings
Select the Right Wings: Opt for fresh or thoroughly thawed wings; frozen wings can result in excess moisture that dilutes the glaze.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on baking time to prevent the wings from drying out; use a meat thermometer for precision if needed.
Flavor Boosting: For deeper flavor, marinate the wings in half the glaze before baking; it infuses them with more of that savory maple bourbon goodness.
Thickening the Glaze: If your glaze is too runny, allow it to simmer a bit longer; a good glaze should coat the wings without sliding off.
Crispy Finish: If you enjoy crispy wings, don’t skip broiling at the end—this step elevates the texture to that perfect crunch that everyone loves!
Try these tips to perfect your Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings and impress your guests at your next gathering!
Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings Variations
Feel free to put your own twist on this delightful dish and make it uniquely yours.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the glaze for a fiery flavor adventure. Turn the heat up a notch and savor the delicious balance of sweet and spicy.
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Honey Substitute: Swap out maple syrup for honey for a floral sweetness that enhances the glaze beautifully. This makes for a fresh twist that will surprise your taste buds.
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Zesty Citrus: Replace orange juice with fresh lime juice for a tangy flavor profile that complements the wings perfectly. This brightens the glaze and adds a refreshing zest to each bite.
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Soy Sauce Boost: Incorporate a tablespoon of soy sauce into the glaze to add umami depth. It’ll bring an extra layer of richness that elevates your wings from simple to spectacular.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in freshly chopped rosemary or thyme into the glaze for aromatic flair. This change introduces wonderful earthy notes that enhance the overall flavor.
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Dry Rub Option: Instead of a wet glaze, rub the wings with your favorite BBQ spice mix before baking. This gives them a nice crust and a smoky flavor that’s simply irresistible.
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Maple Cream: For a decadent touch, drizzle some maple cream over the top before serving. This luxurious addition will leave everyone wanting more.
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Bourbon Variance: Try using a flavored bourbon, like vanilla or cherry, for a unique twist. The added flavor will transform your wings into an extraordinary culinary experience.
Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs
How do I select fresh chicken wings?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken wings, look for ones that are plump with a light pink color. Avoid any that have dark spots or an off smell. Fresh wings should feel firm to the touch and have moist, smooth skin. If you’re buying frozen wings, ensure they are well-packaged without any ice crystals, as this could indicate freezer burn.
How should I store leftover Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings?
Very! Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re fully cooled before sealing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven at 350ºF for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Can I freeze Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings?
Absolutely! To freeze your wings, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet first, making sure they’re not touching. This prevents them from sticking together. Freeze for about 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, place them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if the glaze is too runny?
Don’t worry! If your glaze turns out too runny, simply continue to simmer it on low heat, stirring occasionally. This will help it thicken as water evaporates. Ideally, you want it to coat the back of a spoon before tossing it with the wings. Aim for about 5-10 additional minutes of simmering until it reaches your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for the Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings?
Very much so! If you’re cooking for guests with dietary restrictions, it’s important to consider that bourbon contains alcohol, which may not be suitable for certain diets. Additionally, ensure that your spices (like smoked paprika) are free from allergens if you have guests with specific sensitivities. Always double-check the labels to keep everyone safe and happy!
How can I make these wings spicier?
Absolutely! If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze for an extra kick. Start with a quarter teaspoon mixed in during the simmering process, and adjust to your preferred spice level. The more the merrier when it comes to flavor experimentation!
Delicious Maple Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings to Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line a baking sheet with foil and give it a light greasing.
- If using whole chicken wings, cut away the wing tips and separate the drumettes. Rinse under cool water and pat dry.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add grated onion and cook for 2 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic, bourbon, maple syrup, orange juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk together and bring to a low simmer for 5 to 7 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, season the wings with salt and pepper.
- Pour half of the glaze over the wings, toss to coat, and arrange on the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20 minutes, then turn the wings and bake for another 10 to 12 minutes.
- While they bake, simmer the remaining glaze on the stovetop until it thickens.
- Serve wings immediately, broiling for extra crispiness if desired.
- Sprinkle fresh mint over the wings just before serving.