Honey Old Bay Wings Recipe In Air Fryer

Sabrina Dawson

honey old bay wings
4.8/5 - (26 votes)

Honey Old Bay wings cooked in an air fryer is a finger-licking dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings for sweet and savory flavors. This dish is a unique twist on the classic buffalo wings, with a coating of honey and Old Bay seasoning that gives it a distinct flavor.

This dish has its roots in the Chesapeake Bay area, where Old Bay seasoning is a staple ingredient in many dishes. Old Bay is a blend of 18 herbs and spices, including celery salt, red pepper, and paprika, and was first created in 1939 by a German immigrant named Gustav Brunn.

The addition of honey to the mix takes the flavors to another level, adding a touch of sweetness that balances out the spice. When cooked in an air fryer, the wings become crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.

If you haven’t tried honey Old Bay wings air fryer yet, you’re missing out on a truly delicious and satisfying dish. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, game nights, or even a simple dinner at home. Trust us, one bite of these wings, and you’ll be hooked!

What is honey Old Bay wings?

Honey Old Bay wings have gained popularity due to their unique and delicious flavor profile. The combination of honey and Old Bay seasoning adds a sweet and savory taste to the chicken wings that is irresistible to many people. The dish is also versatile, as the wings can be cooked in different ways to achieve the desired level of crispiness or tenderness.

Additionally, Old Bay is a seasoning blend that originated in Baltimore, Maryland. It was created in 1939 by a German immigrant named Gustav Brunn, who owned a spice business in the city. The blend consists of a mix of 18 herbs and spices, including celery salt, black pepper, red pepper, and paprika, among others.

This seasoning is a staple in many seafood dishes, but it can also be used to add flavor to other types of food, such as chicken wings. As a result, honey Old Bay wings have become a popular snack or appetizer in many restaurants and households across the country.

Honey Old Bay wings recipe

Cooking notes

  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 20 minutes
  • Total time: 30 minutes
  • Course: Appetizer or Main dish
  • Cuisine: American
  • Equipment: Air fryer or baking sheet and oven

Honey Old Bay wings ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken wings or turkey wings
  • 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Note: These quantities are for a basic recipe and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences.

honey old bay wings recipe
Old Bay seasoning

How to make honey Old Bay wings sauce?

To make honey Old Bay wings sauce recipe for your wings, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Here’s how to make Old Bay Honey Wing Sauce that works for all cooking methods:

  • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Add the honey, Old Bay seasoning, and apple cider vinegar to the saucepan and stir to combine.
  • Cook the sauce for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it starts to thicken.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to make honey Old Bay wings?

honey old bay sauce

Preparation of the wings:

  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with the Old Bay seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.

Cooking methods:

  • Place the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, without overcrowding.
  • Cook the wings in the air fryer for 10 minutes, then flip them over using tongs.
  • Continue cooking the wings for an additional 10 minutes, or until they are crispy and cooked through.
  • While the wings are cooking, prepare the honey Old Bay sauce by following the recipe in the previous answer.
  • Once the wings are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and toss them in the honey Old Bay sauce until they are evenly coated.
  • Serve the wings hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Alternative cooking methods

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also bake the wings in the oven, deep-fry or grill them

Honey Old Bay wings oven

To bake the wings, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping them over halfway through cooking. 

Once they are cooked, toss them in the honey Old Bay sauce and serve.

Deep fry honey Old Bay wings

To deep-fry the wings, heat a deep pot of oil to 375°F (190°C). Carefully add the wings to the hot oil and fry them for 8-10 minutes, or until they are crispy and cooked through. 

Remove the wings from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate. Once they have cooled slightly, toss them in the previously prepared honey Old Bay wings sauce recipe and serve.

Honey Old Bay wings on grill

To grill the wings, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken wings on the grill and cook them for 10-12 minutes on each side, or until they are crispy and cooked through. 

During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the wings with the honey Old Bay sauce to caramelize it and add a sticky glaze. Once they are cooked, remove the wings from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. 

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce. 

Grilled honey Old Bay wings are perfect for summertime barbecues and outdoor gatherings, and they’re sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

See also: No Buttermilk? No Problem: A Fried Chicken Recipe Without Buttermilk That Will Satisfy Your Cravings

Tips for achieving crispy honey Old Bay chicken wings

  • Dry the wings before seasoning: Use paper towels to pat dry the wings before seasoning them. This will help remove excess moisture and ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
  • Use an air fryer or oven: Air fryers and ovens are great for making crispy wings without the need for deep frying. They circulate hot air around the wings, creating a crispy texture.
  • Space the wings out: Whether you’re using an air fryer or oven, make sure to space the wings out on the cooking surface. This allows for even cooking and prevents them from becoming soggy.
  • Season the wings generously: Don’t be afraid to use plenty of Old Bay seasoning on your wings. The flavor can be quite strong, and a generous seasoning ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
  • Use cornstarch: Adding a bit of cornstarch to the seasoning mixture can help create an extra crispy coating on the wings.

Creative ways to enjoy honey Old Bay wings

  • Honey Old Bay Garlic Wings: Add minced garlic to the honey Old Bay sauce for an extra flavor boost.
  • Honey Old Bay BBQ Wings: Mix the honey Old Bay sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
  • Honey Old Bay Buffalo Wings: Toss the wings in Buffalo sauce and then coat them with the honey Old Bay sauce for a spicy-sweet combination.
  • Honey Old Bay Sriracha Wings: Add a bit of Sriracha sauce to the honey Old Bay sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Honey Old Bay Sticky Wings: Add brown sugar to the honey Old Bay sauce to create a sticky glaze that’s perfect for dipping.

Health benefits of eating honey Old Bay wings

Here is a table of nutrition facts with calories in honey Old Bay wings

Nutrient Amount per serving (6 wings)
Calories 600
Total Fat 40-50 grams
Saturated Fat 10-15 grams
Cholesterol 180-200 milligrams
Sodium 1300-1500 milligrams
Carbohydrates 15-20 grams
Fiber 0 grams
Sugar 14-16 grams
Protein 50-60 grams

Note: The exact nutrition facts for honey Old Bay wings may vary depending on the specific recipe and cooking method used. The table above is intended to provide a general idea of the nutrient content in a serving of this dish. It’s important to always read labels and calculate your own nutrition facts if you have specific dietary needs or restrictions.

Pairing the wings

Honey Old Bay wings are a tasty and versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes and drinks. Here are some suggestions for pairing your honey Old Bay chicken wings:

Side dishes:

  • Classic coleslaw
  • Roasted sweet potatoes
  • Grilled corn on the cob
  • Baked beans
  • Garlic bread
  • Macaroni and cheese
  • Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant

Drink pairings:

  • Beer: A crisp, refreshing beer pairs well with the bold flavors of Old Bay seasoning. A light lager or pilsner is a good choice, but if you prefer a stronger flavor, try an IPA or amber ale.
  • Wine: A chilled white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, is a good choice to balance the spicy flavor of the wings. If you prefer red wine, try a light-bodied Pinot Noir or a fruity Zinfandel.
  • Non-alcoholic options: Lemonade, iced tea, or a fruit smoothie are refreshing choices to pair with honey Old Bay wings.

How to store honey Old Bay wings?

To store leftover honey Old Bay wings, you should first make sure that they have cooled down to room temperature. Once they have cooled, you can transfer them to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.

If you plan to eat the leftover wings within a day or two, you can store them in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that chicken wings are a perishable food, so they should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours.

If you want to store the wings for a longer period of time, you can freeze them. Place the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until they are solid. Then, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container and store in the freezer for up to three months.

When you are ready to reheat the wings, you can either bake them in the oven or reheat them in the air fryer. To bake, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the wings for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. To reheat in the air fryer, set the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and heated through.

Always make sure that leftover wings are reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

FAQs

Bake or air fryer honey Old Bay wings better?

Both baking and air frying are great methods for making honey Old Bay wings, and which one is better really depends on personal preference.

Baking is a classic method that can produce crispy and delicious wings. It is also a great option if you don’t have an air fryer. To bake honey Old Bay chicken wings, simply toss the wings in the sauce, place them on a baking sheet, and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.

On the other hand, air frying is a newer method that has gained popularity for its ability to produce crispy wings with less oil. Air fryers use hot air to circulate around the food, which can help to create a crispy exterior. To air fry honey Old Bay wings, simply toss the wings in the sauce and place them in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through.

Can I make honey Old Bay wings in a slow cooker?

While it is possible to make chicken wings in a slow cooker, it is not recommended for honey Old Bay wings as slow cooking can make the skin soggy. Air frying or baking are better methods to achieve crispy wings.

Can I use frozen wings for honey Old Bay wings?

Yes, you can use frozen wings for honey Old Bay wings. Simply thaw the wings in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

Can I use a different type of honey for honey Old Bay wings?

Yes, you can use any type of honey for honey Old Bay wings. However, keep in mind that different types of honey have different levels of sweetness and flavor, which may affect the taste of the dish.

Can I make this recipe using Old Bay hot sauce instead?

Yes, you can definitely make this recipe using Old Bay hot sauce instead of Old Bay seasoning. The hot sauce will add a spicy kick to the wings and can be a great option if you prefer a little more heat.

To make honey Old Bay wings with Old Bay hot sauce, you can follow the same recipe as for the original version, but instead of using Old Bay seasoning, add a few tablespoons of Old Bay hot sauce to the honey-butter mixture. You can adjust the amount of hot sauce to your preference to make the wings as spicy as you like.

Keep in mind that Old Bay hot sauce may contain vinegar and other ingredients that can affect the flavor of the wings, so the final result may be slightly different from the original recipe. However, this can be a fun and delicious twist on the classic honey Old Bay chicken wings recipe.

What sauce to eat with honey Old Bay wings?

Honey Old Bay wings are already coated with a delicious honey and Old Bay sauce, so additional dipping sauces may not be necessary. However, if you prefer to have additional sauce for dipping, there are a few options that pair well with the flavors of the wings.

how to make honey old bay wings

Some popular dipping sauces for honey Old Bay wings include ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, honey mustard sauce, and barbecue sauce. These sauces can add some extra flavor and creaminess to the wings without overpowering the existing honey and Old Bay flavors.

Conclusion

Honey Old Bay wings are a delicious and popular dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the savory and spicy flavors of Old Bay seasoning. Whether you bake them in the oven or air fry them, these wings are easy to make at home and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With the right techniques and ingredients, you can achieve crispy and juicy wings that are packed with flavor.

If you haven’t tried honey Old Bay wings yet, I highly recommend giving them a try. They’re perfect for game day, parties, or just as a fun and tasty meal. Don’t be afraid to get creative with different seasonings and sauces, and experiment with different side dishes and drink pairings to find your perfect combination.

honey old bay wings

Honey Old Bay Wings Recipe

Sabrina Dawson
With easy-to-follow recipes and cooking tips, you can make restaurant-quality honey Old Bay wings at home and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer or baking sheet and oven

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
  • 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with the Old Bay seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
  • Place the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, without overcrowding.
  • Cook the wings in the air fryer for 10 minutes, then flip them over using tongs.
  • Continue cooking the wings for an additional 10 minutes, or until they are crispy and cooked through.
  • While the wings are cooking, prepare the honey Old Bay sauce by following the recipe in the previous answer.
  • Once the wings are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and toss them in the honey Old Bay sauce until they are evenly coated.
  • Serve the wings hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Video

Notes

  • Dry the wings before seasoning: Use paper towels to pat dry the wings before seasoning them. This will help remove excess moisture and ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
  • Use an air fryer or oven: Air fryers and ovens are great for making crispy wings without the need for deep frying. They circulate hot air around the wings, creating a crispy texture.
  • Space the wings out: Whether you’re using an air fryer or oven, make sure to space the wings out on the cooking surface. This allows for even cooking and prevents them from becoming soggy.
  • Season the wings generously: Don’t be afraid to use plenty of Old Bay seasoning on your wings. The flavor can be quite strong, and a generous seasoning ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
  • Use cornstarch: Adding a bit of cornstarch to the seasoning mixture can help create an extra crispy coating on the wings.