Teriyaki Baked Chicken Wings: A Flavorful Delight for Your Taste Buds - VLOGMAS DAY 23

Two days to Christmas! Can you believe it? Day 23 of #VLOGMAS2021 finds this delicious, crispy and spicy Teriyaki baked chicken wings. These little morsels can be eaten as dinner or even as an appetizer. So where did Teriyaki originate from? According to Kikkoman, world-wide producer of soy sauce and related condiments, the syrupy sweet teriyaki we know and love originated in Hawaii, when Japanese newcomers mixed local ingredients such as pineapple juice and brown sugar with soy sauce and used it as a marinade. Are you ready to elevate your chicken wing game to a whole new level of deliciousness? If the answer is yes (and we're pretty sure it is), you're in for a treat! Today, we're diving into the world of Teriyaki Baked Chicken Wings. These wings are not your average finger food; they're a tantalizing blend of sweet and savory flavors that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

Why It's Great

What makes this recipe truly outstanding is the balance of flavors. The crispy and succulent chicken wings are baked to perfection, while the homemade teriyaki sauce adds a burst of umami goodness. Here are a few reasons why this recipe is a standout:

• Flavor Explosion: The teriyaki sauce combines the sweetness of brown sugar and honey with the savory notes of soy sauce and ginger. It's an explosion of flavors in every bite.
• Healthier Choice: Baking the wings instead of frying them reduces the overall oil content, making this dish a healthier alternative without compromising on taste.
• Easy Preparation: You don't need to be a culinary expert to nail this recipe. It's beginner-friendly and perfect for those new to cooking.
• Versatility: These wings can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even a snack. They're versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.

INGREDIENTS

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Chicken Wings

• 3 pounds of chicken wings
• 1 tablespoon of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of chili flakes
• 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• 1/4 cup of water
• 1/4 cup of soy sauce
• 1/4 cup of packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch

Kitchen Equipment You'll Need

Before you dive into the cooking process, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment on hand:

• Baking sheet
• Wire rack (optional but recommended for even baking)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Cooking spray or parchment paper

Now, let's embark on this flavorful journey!

Recipe Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings

1. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will ensure that your wings become crispy and golden brown.
2. While the oven is heating up, take a baking sheet and place a wire rack on it. If you don't have a wire rack, you can line the baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes. This dry rub will give your wings a perfect balance of seasoning and crispiness.
4. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is essential for achieving crispy skin.
5. Place the wings in the mixing bowl with the dry rub and toss them until they're evenly coated.
6. Arrange the wings on the wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure there's some space between each wing. This allows for even cooking.
7. Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until they're golden brown and crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

While the wings are baking, let's whip up the mouthwatering teriyaki sauce:

1. In a saucepan, combine the water, soy sauce, light brown sugar, honey, ground ginger, and garlic powder. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. This will thicken the sauce.
3. Gradually add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering sauce while continuously whisking. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once it's done, remove it from the heat.

Step 3: Glaze the Wings

1. Once the chicken wings are out of the oven and crispy, carefully transfer them to a clean mixing bowl.
2. Pour the freshly prepared teriyaki sauce over the wings. Gently toss them to ensure they're evenly coated with that irresistible glaze.
3. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the wings for that final touch of flavor and presentation.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Your Teriyaki Baked Chicken Wings are ready to be devoured! You can serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks for easy snacking or as a main course alongside steamed rice and your favorite veggies.

How to Store Leftovers

If, by some miracle, you have leftovers (these wings tend to disappear quickly), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use an oven or toaster oven to maintain their crispy texture.

Recipe Tips and Variations

• Spice It Up: If you prefer your wings spicier, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a dash of sriracha sauce to the teriyaki glaze.
• Garnish Creatively: Besides sesame seeds, you can garnish your wings with chopped green onions, cilantro, or even some grated orange zest for extra zing.
• Serve with Dipping Sauce: Offer a side of extra teriyaki sauce or a cooling dip like ranch or blue cheese dressing for a tasty contrast.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

A1: While fresh wings are recommended for the best results, you can use frozen wings. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before applying the dry rub.

Q2: Can I make the teriyaki sauce in advance?

A2: Absolutely! You can prepare the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before tossing it with the wings.

Q3: Can I use this teriyaki sauce for other dishes?

A3: Definitely. This teriyaki sauce pairs well with grilled chicken, salmon, or even tofu. Get creative with your culinary adventures!