If you’ve been searching for a mouthwatering, finger-licking dish that combines depth, sweetness, and a hint of smoky bourbon charm, then this Kentucky Bourbon Chicken Wings Recipe is going to steal your heart. These wings are generously coated in a tantalizing dry rub before being bathed in a rich bourbon-infused barbecue sauce that perfectly balances sweet, savory, and spicy notes. Each bite bursts with tender juiciness and a layer of complex flavors that make these wings an unforgettable party staple or a comforting weeknight treat. Trust me, once you try this Kentucky Bourbon Chicken Wings Recipe, it will become a beloved favorite in your rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Kentucky Bourbon Chicken Wings Recipe lies in its thoughtful but straightforward ingredients. Each component is essential, bringing unique layers of flavor, aroma, and irresistible texture to your wings. From the perfectly selected spices in the dry rub to the luscious bourbon barbecue sauce, every element works together to create a harmonious taste experience.
- 4 lbs fresh chicken wings: The star of the show, providing plenty of juicy, tender bites to share or savor solo.
- Dry rub spices: A blend of brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, basil, and celery salt that builds a bold and balanced flavor foundation.
- Kentucky bourbon whiskey (1 cup): Adds a rich, warming depth and sweetness that truly defines the dish’s character.
- Bourbon Barbecue Sauce ingredients: Including ketchup, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke to create a thick, tangy glaze that clings beautifully.
- Water (1/2 cup): Helps to meld the sauce ingredients into a smooth consistency perfect for simmering and coating the wings.
How to Make Kentucky Bourbon Chicken Wings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Rub and Coat the Wings
Begin by mixing together the brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, basil, and celery salt to create your dry rub. This combination packs a powerful punch of flavor that will infuse your wings with a subtle heat, smoky aroma, and a touch of sweetness. Toss the fresh chicken wings in the dry rub until each piece is thoroughly coated. Letting them sit with the rub for a little while allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
Step 2: Mix the Bourbon Barbecue Sauce
Next, combine the ketchup, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, liquid smoke, Kentucky bourbon whiskey, and water in a saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring often to meld everything into a beautifully rich and sticky sauce. Simmer the sauce for about 15 minutes until slightly thickened, allowing all those ingredients to marry into the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy. The bourbon whiskey truly elevates the sauce, delivering that signature kick you crave in the Kentucky Bourbon Chicken Wings Recipe.
Step 3: Cook the Wings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Arrange the dry-rubbed wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet to ensure even cooking and crispy skin. Bake the wings for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to develop a golden, crispy exterior. Once baked, toss the wings in the warm bourbon barbecue sauce, coating each piece generously. For an extra sticky finish, return the sauced wings to the oven for another 5 minutes, then serve piping hot.
How to Serve Kentucky Bourbon Chicken Wings Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes can elevate the visual appeal and introduce fresh flavor contrasts. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions atop your wings to add a burst of color and fresh herbaceousness. A few thin slices of red chili can also bring a dash of vibrant heat and a beautiful pop of red.
Side Dishes
Kentucky Bourbon Chicken Wings pair beautifully with classic sides that complement their bold flavors. Think creamy coleslaw to cut through the richness, crispy fries for a satisfying crunch, or even grilled corn on the cob for a smoky sweetness. Each side helps balance the wings and rounds out a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these wings on a rustic wooden board alongside small bowls of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. You can also pile them up in a deep dish for sharing or arrange them individually on lettuce leaves for an elegant appetizer presentation. The versatility of this Kentucky Bourbon Chicken Wings Recipe makes it perfect for casual family dinners or fun gatherings with friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare!), place the cooled wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This helps retain their flavor and tenderness, making them easy to enjoy again without losing the essence of the bourbon barbecue magic.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the cooked and sauced wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to freezer bags or airtight containers. Frozen wings keep well for up to 2 months. This is a fantastic way to prep wings in advance and enjoy them whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your wings in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisped. Microwaving is quick but may soften the skin. Adding a drizzle of leftover sauce before reheating will refresh their moist, flavorful character.
FAQs
Can I use bottled barbecue sauce instead of making my own?
While you could use bottled barbecue sauce, making your own bourbon barbecue sauce is what truly sets this Kentucky Bourbon Chicken Wings Recipe apart with its rich, layered flavors. Homemade sauce lets you control the sweetness, spice, and of course, the bourbon kick.
What type of bourbon works best for this recipe?
Use a good-quality Kentucky bourbon whiskey that you enjoy drinking. It doesn’t need to be expensive, but a smooth, flavorful bourbon will give your wings the best taste. Avoid cooking bourbons or those with off flavors.
Can I make these wings spicy?
Absolutely! For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper in the dry rub or add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the barbecue sauce. You can customize the spice level to perfectly suit your heat tolerance.
Is there a recommended cooking method besides baking?
Yes, if you prefer, grilling the wings after applying the dry rub adds a wonderful smoky char that pairs beautifully with the bourbon sauce. Just be sure to baste them with the sauce near the end to prevent flare-ups and maintain moisture.
Can I prepare this recipe for a large crowd?
Definitely! This Kentucky Bourbon Chicken Wings Recipe scales up beautifully. Simply multiply the ingredients based on the number of guests, and consider baking wings in batches or using multiple racks in the oven for even cooking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the perfect blend of bourbon, spices, and tender chicken wings that makes this Kentucky Bourbon Chicken Wings Recipe an all-time favorite. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, bringing a cozy, spirited flavor to any table. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and watch it become a go-to comfort food in your kitchen.
Print
Kentucky Bourbon Chicken Wings Recipe
- Prep Time: 50 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 14-16 wings)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Kentucky Bourbon Chicken Wings recipe offers a sweet and smoky flavor with a rich bourbon barbecue sauce that perfectly complements crispy, tender chicken wings. The wings are coated in a flavorful dry rub, slow-cooked with bourbon and a blend of spices, and finished with a sticky homemade bourbon barbecue glaze, making it an irresistible appetizer or game-day treat.
Ingredients
Chicken Wings and Dry Rub
- 4 lbs fresh chicken wings (approximately 14–16 wings)
- 1/8 cup paprika
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp coriander
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne
- 1 tsp basil
- 1 tsp celery salt
- ¼ cup brown sugar
Bourbon Barbecue Sauce
- 1 cup Kentucky bourbon whiskey
- ½ cup water
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ cups ketchup
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 4 tbsp molasses
- 1/8 cup Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp liquid smoke
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Rub: In a bowl, combine paprika, salt, black pepper, coriander, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, basil, celery salt, and brown sugar. Mix thoroughly to create the dry rub for the chicken wings.
- Season the Wings: Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels. Generously coat the wings with the dry rub mixture, ensuring each wing is evenly covered. Let the wings rest for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Make the Bourbon Barbecue Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine Kentucky bourbon whiskey, water, brown sugar, ketchup, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens.
- Cook the Wings: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the seasoned wings on a baking sheet lined with foil or a wire rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking to ensure even baking.
- Glaze and Finish: Remove wings from oven and brush each wing generously with the bourbon barbecue sauce. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes to set the glaze.
- Serve: Remove wings from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm with remaining bourbon barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crispy wings, place a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow air circulation.
- You can substitute the bourbon whiskey with a non-alcoholic bourbon-flavored extract if desired.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to your spice preference.
- Make sure to watch the wings closely during the last baking to prevent burning the sugar in the glaze.
