Whiskey Glaze Wings from Buffalo Wild Wings feature tender chicken wings coated in a rich, smoky whiskey glaze, delivering a perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors with a glossy, caramelized finish.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Baking sheet or air fryer basket
- Wire rack (optional)
- Tongs
- Basting brush
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Aluminum foil (optional)
- Oven or air fryer
- Cooking thermometer
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings
- 1/2 cup whiskey
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Salt, to taste
Using authentic whiskey is essential to achieve the rich, smoky flavor characteristic of the Whiskey Glaze Wings from Buffalo Wild Wings. Brown sugar and honey balance the taste with a natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully when cooked. Soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce add depth and umami, while smoked paprika and cayenne pepper contribute subtle spiciness and warmth. Cornstarch mixed with water helps thicken the glaze, ensuring it adheres perfectly to the wings during cooking. Your homemade Whiskey Glaze Wings will closely replicate the iconic flavor of this Buffalo Wild Wings copycat menu favorite.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels.
- Season wings with salt.
- Arrange wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet (or in air fryer basket).
- Bake or air fry wings for 35–40 minutes (oven) or 22–25 minutes (air fryer), flipping halfway.
- In a saucepan, combine whiskey, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Whisk ingredients together and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Stir cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce.
- Simmer sauce 3–5 minutes until thickened, stirring often.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Remove wings from oven/air fryer.
- Toss wings in the whiskey glaze or brush glaze onto wings using a basting brush.
- (Optional) Return glazed wings to oven/air fryer for 3–5 minutes for caramelization.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Whiskey Glaze Wings from Buffalo Wild Wings copycat menu can be adapted by substituting whiskey with bourbon or rum for a slightly different but still rich flavor. If you don't have cornstarch on hand to thicken the glaze, you can use arrowroot powder or flour as alternatives. When using an air fryer instead of an oven, adjust cooking times accordingly to prevent wings from drying out while ensuring they remain crispy. It's important to monitor the internal temperature of the wings with a cooking thermometer to guarantee they reach 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption. You can also tweak the spice levels by increasing or reducing cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Tips
Ensure chicken wings are thoroughly dried before seasoning to achieve a crispy texture during baking or air frying. Monitor glaze consistency closely, as the cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce rapidly; stir often to prevent lumps or burning. Use a cooking thermometer to confirm wings reach an internal temperature of 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption. When applying the whiskey glaze, toss wings evenly or use a basting brush to coat each piece thoroughly, enhancing flavor and creating that signature glossy, caramelized finish.
Nutritions
Whiskey Glaze Wings from Buffalo Wild Wings provide a flavorful source of protein from 2 lbs of chicken wings, essential for muscle repair and growth. The glaze contains ingredients like brown sugar and honey, contributing to a moderate amount of carbohydrates, while soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce add sodium and umami flavor. Spices such as smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper introduce antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. You can enjoy these wings as a satisfying treat while being mindful of the sugar and sodium content in the glaze.
Storage
Store leftover Whiskey Glaze Wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain flavor and texture. Reheat wings in an oven preheated to 350degF (175degC) for 10-15 minutes, or in an air fryer at the same temperature for about 5-7 minutes, to help restore their crispy, caramelized finish. Avoid microwaving as it can make the wings soggy and diminish the rich whiskey glaze flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute bourbon for whiskey to add a slightly sweeter and richer flavor to the glaze. Try marinating the wings in the sauce for an hour before cooking to enhance the infusion of flavors. For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the glaze mixture. Using a charcoal grill instead of an oven or air fryer will impart a smoky aroma, complementing the whiskey glaze perfectly.
Allergies
Whiskey Glaze Wings contain soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to soy or fish ingredients often found in Worcestershire sauce. The glaze also includes honey and various spices like smoked paprika and cayenne pepper, which can cause allergies or intolerances in some people. You should carefully check all sauces and spices used to ensure they do not contain allergens specific to your dietary needs.
Why this recipe?
Buffalo Wild Wings' Whiskey Glaze Wings are loved for their unique blend of smoky whiskey flavor and a hint of sweetness, creating a rich and satisfying taste experience. The wings feature a perfectly balanced glaze that complements the crispy texture, making each bite flavorful and indulgent. Replicating this recipe allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality wings at home while customizing the heat and sweetness levels to your preference. Your homemade Whiskey Glaze Wings can capture the same bold flavors that make this menu item a standout favorite among wing enthusiasts.