Tangy BBQ Chicken Wing Platter

Name: Tangy BBQ Chicken Wing Platter
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

I absolutely love serving a Tangy BBQ Chicken Wing Platter at gatherings! The balance of sweet and tangy flavors, alongside the crispy skin, creates an irresistible dish that's perfect for casual get-togethers. Every bite bursts with flavor and pairs excellently with refreshing sides. Over the years, I've tweaked my BBQ sauce to get the right balance, and trust me, it's a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress anyone at the table!

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-17T15:54:27.519Z

When I first attempted making these wings, I aimed for a homemade BBQ sauce that was both zesty and finger-licking good. After several trials, I discovered that adding apple cider vinegar gives the sauce that extra tang, enhancing the flavor of the chicken wonderfully. The blissful combination of ingredients creates the perfect coating that caramelizes beautifully while baking.

What I love most about this platter is its versatility. I often serve it with celery sticks and a creamy blue cheese dip for added crunch and contrast. The end result is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a standout dish for any occasion!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich tangy flavor that keeps you coming back for more
Perfectly crispy chicken wings that are easy to make
Ideal for game days or casual gatherings with friends

      

Choosing the Right Chicken Wings

When selecting chicken wings for this recipe, look for fresh, high-quality wings that are plump and evenly sized. Organic or free-range options often provide better flavor and texture due to a richer diet. If you can only find frozen wings, make sure to thoroughly defrost them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Another key aspect to consider is whether to use whole wings or wing sections (flats and drumsticks). Whole wings can be more impressive on a platter, while sections are easier for dipping. If you're short on time, consider purchasing pre-cut wings; they still deliver great flavor but save you on prep time.

Perfecting the BBQ Sauce

The BBQ sauce is the star of this dish, with its sweet and tangy balance perfectly complementing the crispy wings. Don't hesitate to tailor the sauce to your taste; for a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a smokier flavor, swapping half the smoked paprika for chipotle powder can add a delightful depth.

Letting the sauce simmer for at least 10 minutes helps meld the flavors and thicken the mixture. Watch the sauce closely as it cooks; if it starts to bubble vigorously, decrease the heat to maintain a gentle simmer to prevent burning and ensure a glossy finish.

Serving and Storing Tips

For an impressive presentation, arrange the wings on a large platter and drizzle extra BBQ sauce over the top. Adding a sprinkle of chopped green onions or sesame seeds can elevate the dish visually. Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dip for a classic pairing that complements the tangy flavors of the wings.

If you have leftovers, allow the wings to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crisp.

Ingredients

For the Wings

2 pounds chicken wings
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the BBQ Sauce

1 cup ketchup
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Prepare the Wings

In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the wings evenly.

Make the BBQ Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Stir well and let simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Bake the Wings

Place the wings in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through until they are crispy and golden brown.

Coat and Serve

Once the wings are cooked, toss them in the BBQ sauce until fully coated. Serve immediately with celery sticks and blue cheese dip if desired.

Pro Tips

Try marinating the wings in the BBQ sauce for a few hours before baking for an even deeper flavor. Adjust the sauce's sweetness and tanginess by modifying the amount of sugar or vinegar to taste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your wings aren’t getting crispy, make sure they are spaced evenly on the baking sheet, avoiding any overlap. This allows hot air to circulate around the wings, promoting crispiness. Additionally, making sure the wings are completely coated in oil will help achieve that desired crunch.

Should your BBQ sauce turn out too thick, simply mix in a tablespoon of water or additional apple cider vinegar until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it's too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken further.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the flavors of your BBQ sauce. Adding ingredients like honey, mustard, or even pineapple juice can provide unique twists. If you’re craving a tangier version, enhance the apple cider vinegar or incorporate some lime juice for a citrusy brightness.

For a different texture, you might consider frying the wings instead of baking them. Frying at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes until golden brown can yield an extraordinarily crispy exterior, perfect for those who enjoy a crunchier bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of chicken besides wings?

Yes! Drumsticks or boneless chicken pieces work well too, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How can I make these wings spicier?

Add some hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce for an extra kick.

→ Can I grill these wings instead of baking?

Absolutely! Just follow the same seasoning and sauce steps, then grill them over medium heat until fully cooked.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.