Slow Cooker Spicy Honey BBQ Chicken Wings Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a slightly stickier finish, you can remove the wings after the slow cooking process and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet under a preheated oven broiler for 2 to 3 minutes per side.

Watch them closely to prevent the honey in the sauce from burning, as it caramelizes very quickly under direct high heat.

If the sauce appears too thin after the cooking time is complete, you can remove the wings and continue to cook the sauce on high with the lid off for an additional 15 to 20 minutes to reduce it to your preferred consistency.

This simple step concentrates the flavors and ensures a clingy, rich coating for the wings.

Variations

• Garlic Herb Wings: Replace the cayenne and smoked paprika with 1 tablespoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Add two cloves of minced fresh garlic to the sauce before pouring it over the wings for a savory, aromatic twist.
• Sweet Chili BBQ Wings: Substitute half of the barbecue sauce with sweet chili sauce. The combination of the heat from the chili and the sweetness of the honey creates a vibrant, globally-inspired flavor profile that pairs exceptionally well with chicken.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezer

Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure they are cooled within two hours of cooking to maintain food safety. The wings will keep well for up to three days. When ready to eat, ensure they are heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

These wings are excellent for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the wings and sauce in the slow cooker insert, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Simply remove the insert from the fridge about 30 minutes before starting the slow cooker to avoid a dramatic temperature change.

Serving ideas

Serve these wings hot, straight from the slow cooker, perhaps garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.

The rich, spicy, and sweet profile pairs beautifully with cooling side dishes like celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a light cucumber salad to balance the intensity of the glaze.

For a more substantial meal, offer these wings alongside a side of creamy coleslaw or potato salad. The combination of the warm, saucy chicken and crisp, cool vegetables creates a balanced dining experience. Ensure you provide plenty of napkins, as these wings are best enjoyed by hand and are delightfully messy.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Spicy Honey BBQ Chicken Wings

Prep 5 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 10 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 2 lb chicken wing flats and drumettes
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 cup barbecue sauce

Instructions

1. Place the chicken wing flats and drumettes into the basin of the slow cooker, ensuring they are arranged in an even layer. Sprinkle the cayenne pepper and smoked paprika evenly over the top of the chicken pieces.
2. Drizzle the honey over the seasoned chicken wings. Pour the barbecue sauce over the top, ensuring every piece of chicken is lightly coated. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
3. Cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or low for 6 to 7 hours. Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), remove the wings from the slow cooker and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before serving.

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

22 g

Carbohydrates

18 g

Fat

16 g

Fiber

0.5 g

Sugar

15 g

Sodium

650 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.