KFC Honey BBQ Wings (Copycat Recipe)

If you are a fan of KFC’s iconic Honey BBQ Wings, you’re in for a treat! This KFC Honey BBQ Wings (Copycat Recipe) is designed to bring that same finger-licking flavor right into your kitchen. With a crispy exterior and a sweet, smoky glaze, these wings will become a go-to favorite for game days, parties, or any casual gathering. Let’s dive into how to recreate this beloved dish with ease.

Why It Works Every Time

The beauty of this KFC Honey BBQ Wings (Copycat Recipe) lies in its simplicity and the use of quality ingredients. The combination of buttermilk and seasoned flour creates a crispy coating that locks in moisture, ensuring juicy wings. The homemade BBQ sauce, infused with honey and liquid smoke, provides that unmistakable sweet and smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy wings. This recipe provides a reliable method to achieve the same texture and taste as the restaurant version, making it perfect for any occasion.

What to Buy

• Chicken Wings: 2 pounds of chicken wings, preferably fresh for the best texture.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 3/4 cups for a crispy coating.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon to enhance flavor.
• Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon, freshly ground for better taste.
• Buttermilk: 1 cup, essential for marinating and tenderizing the wings.
• Vegetable Oil: For frying; choose a neutral-flavored oil.
• Hickory Smoke BBQ Sauce: 1 cup (we recommend Heinz for authenticity).
• Water: 1/4 cup to adjust the sauce consistency.
• Honey: 2 tablespoons for sweetness.
• Ketchup: 1 tablespoon to add depth of flavor.
• Liquid Smoke: 1 teaspoon for that signature smoky taste.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Large Bowl: For marinating the chicken wings in buttermilk.
• Deep Fryer or Large Pot: For frying the wings evenly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurement.
• Cooking Thermometer: To ensure oil is at the right temperature.
• Wire Rack: For draining excess oil after frying.

KFC Honey BBQ Wings (Copycat Recipe): From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Marinate the Wings

Start by placing the 2 pounds of chicken wings in a large bowl. Pour 1 cup of buttermilk over the wings, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In another large bowl, whisk together 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. This seasoned flour will give your wings that delightful crunch.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You’ll need enough oil to fully submerge the wings, about 3-4 inches deep.

Step 4: Coat the Wings

Once the wings have marinated, remove them from the buttermilk and allow any excess to drip off. Dredge each wing in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour.

Step 5: Fry the Wings

Carefully place the coated wings in the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry the wings for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a cooking thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Make the Honey BBQ Sauce

While the wings are frying, prepare the BBQ sauce. In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of hickory smoke BBQ sauce, 1/4 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 tablespoon of ketchup, and 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke. Heat over medium heat, stirring until well combined and warmed through.

Step 7: Toss the Wings in Sauce

Once the wings are done frying, place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil. In a large bowl, toss the hot wings with the honey BBQ sauce until fully coated.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the wings to a serving platter, and if desired, drizzle with additional honey for extra sweetness. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade KFC Honey BBQ Wings (Copycat Recipe)!

Make It Diet-Friendly

• Air Fry: Consider using an air fryer for a healthier version with less oil.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Low-Sugar BBQ Sauce: Use a low-sugar or sugar-free BBQ sauce to reduce calories.
• Oven-Bake: Bake the wings in the oven instead of frying for a lower-fat option.

Mistakes That Ruin KFC Honey BBQ Wings (Copycat Recipe)

• Skipping the marinating step can lead to dry wings. Always allow time for the buttermilk to tenderize.
• Overcrowding the frying pot can cause the oil temperature to drop, resulting in soggy wings.
• Not using a thermometer to check oil temperature may lead to undercooked or burnt wings.
• Rushing the cooking process can compromise flavor; take your time to ensure each step is done properly.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

To store your leftover KFC Honey BBQ Wings (Copycat Recipe), let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing them—just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.

KFC Honey BBQ Wings (Copycat Recipe) FAQs

Can I bake the wings instead of frying?

Yes! You can bake the wings at 400°F (200°C) on a wire rack for about 40-45 minutes, turning halfway, until crispy and cooked through.

How do I make the wings spicier?

To add heat, mix some cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the flour mixture or the BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.

Can I use other types of wings, like drumsticks?

Absolutely! Drumsticks can be used instead of wings; just adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to cook through.

What can I serve with these wings?

These wings pair beautifully with a side of celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a creamy ranch or blue cheese dip. For a complete meal, consider serving them alongside Baked Bbq Chicken Thighs or a fresh salad.

Explore More

• Buffalo Chicken Sliders – Perfect for your next party!
• Baked Bbq Chicken Thighs – A delicious alternative to wings.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have the complete guide to making KFC Honey BBQ Wings (Copycat Recipe), gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family and friends. This recipe is not just about satisfying your cravings but also creating wonderful memories around the dinner table. So roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and enjoy the delicious results of your hard work!