We’ve all craved those irresistible KFC Honey BBQ Wings with their perfect balance of sweet honey and tangy barbecue flavors. The crispy exterior gives way to juicy, tender chicken that’s been glazed to perfection. Now we’re bringing that restaurant-quality taste straight to your kitchen.
These copycat wings deliver the same addictive combination that made KFC’s version so popular. We’ll show you how to achieve that signature crispy coating and create the perfect honey BBQ glaze that clings to every bite. The secret lies in the double-frying technique and our homemade sauce that rivals the original.
Ready to impress your family and friends? Our step-by-step recipe ensures you’ll get restaurant-quality results every time. These wings are perfect for game day parties, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving something deliciously indulgent.
Ingredients
We’ve carefully selected each ingredient to replicate the signature taste and texture of KFC’s beloved Honey BBQ Wings. Our recipe breaks down into three essential components that work together to create that perfect balance of crispy coating and sweet tangy glaze.
For the Wings
- 2 pounds chicken wings (split into flats and drumettes)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 6 cups)
For the Honey BBQ Sauce
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Breading
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon celery salt
Equipment Needed
To successfully recreate these iconic KFC Honey BBQ Wings in our home kitchen, we need exact equipment that ensures professional results. The right tools make the difference between soggy wings and the perfectly crispy coating we’re aiming for.
Deep Fryer or Large Heavy-Bottomed Pot: We recommend using a deep fryer for consistent temperature control, but a large heavy-bottomed pot works excellently as an alternative. The vessel should hold at least 4 quarts of oil to accommodate multiple wings safely.
Cooking Thermometer: Temperature accuracy is crucial for achieving that signature crispy exterior. We need a reliable cooking thermometer to maintain oil temperature at precisely 375°F throughout the frying process.
Mixing Bowls: Multiple mixing bowls are essential for our workflow. We use separate bowls for coating wings and preparing our honey BBQ sauce to prevent cross-contamination and maintain organization.
Whisk or Mixing Spoon: A sturdy whisk helps us blend our honey BBQ sauce ingredients smoothly, while a mixing spoon works perfectly for combining flour and seasonings.
Cooling Rack or Paper Towels: Proper drainage after frying prevents our wings from becoming greasy. A wire cooling rack allows air circulation underneath, though paper towels serve as an adequate alternative.
Tongs: Heat-resistant tongs are indispensable for safely handling wings in hot oil. We prefer long-handled tongs to maintain distance from the bubbling oil.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements ensure consistent results every time we make these wings. Standard measuring tools help us replicate the exact ratios that create the perfect flavor balance.
Having all equipment ready before we start cooking streamlines the process and ensures our wings maintain their crispy texture from fryer to serving plate.
Prep Work
Before we jump into cooking our KFC-style honey BBQ wings, proper preparation ensures smooth execution and restaurant-quality results. Organizing our ingredients and setting up each component systematically creates the foundation for perfectly crispy wings with that signature sweet and smoky glaze.
Preparing the Wings
We start by gathering approximately 2 pounds of chicken wings and washing them thoroughly under cold running water. Pat each wing completely dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture that could interfere with the breading process.
Next, we prepare our wet binding agent by pouring 1 cup of buttermilk into a shallow dish. The buttermilk’s acidity helps tenderize the chicken while creating the perfect base for our flour mixture to adhere.
After coating our wings in buttermilk, we place them uncovered on a baking tray and refrigerate for about an hour. This crucial step allows the breading to set properly and prevents it from falling off during frying.
Making the Honey BBQ Sauce
Our honey BBQ sauce requires precise measurements and careful cooking to achieve that authentic KFC flavor profile. We combine these ingredients in a small saucepan:
- 1 cup hickory smoke BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
We whisk these ingredients until completely smooth over medium heat. Once the mixture begins to simmer, we reduce the heat to low and continue stirring occasionally.
The sauce needs approximately 20 minutes of gentle cooking time to reach the proper consistency. We know it’s ready when the mixture coats the back of a spoon and has reduced by about one-third. Remove from heat, cover, and set aside until our wings are ready.
Setting Up Our Breading Station
Efficient organization prevents mess and ensures consistent results throughout the breading process. We arrange three separate stations for maximum workflow efficiency.
Our first station contains the flour mixture made from 2-3 cups of all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and ground black pepper. The second station holds our prepared buttermilk for the wet coating phase.
Finally, we designate a clean surface or tray where our breaded wings can rest before frying. This systematic approach allows us to bread multiple wings quickly while maintaining the coating’s integrity on each piece.
Having all stations ready before we begin prevents the flour mixture from becoming soggy and keeps our workspace organized throughout the cooking process.
Instructions
Now we’re ready to transform our prepared ingredients into those iconic crispy wings with their signature sweet and tangy coating. Following these detailed steps will ensure we achieve the perfect balance of crunch and flavor that makes KFC’s Honey BBQ Wings so irresistible.
Step 1: Season and Marinate the Wings
Place the 2 pounds of chicken wings in a large bowl and pour the buttermilk over them until completely submerged. We recommend allowing the wings to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. This buttermilk soak tenderizes the meat while adding subtle tang that complements the honey BBQ flavor. Pat the wings dry with paper towels before moving to the next step.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Mixture
Combine 2¾ cups all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper in a shallow dish. Whisk the ingredients together until evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This seasoned flour creates the foundation for our crispy coating that mimics KFC’s signature texture. Set up your breading station by placing this mixture in an easily accessible location near your frying area.
Step 3: Bread the Wings
Remove each wing from the buttermilk marinade and allow excess liquid to drip off before coating. Dredge the wings thoroughly in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure complete coverage. For maximum crispiness, place the coated wings on a wire rack and refrigerate for 1 hour. After chilling, coat the wings again in the flour mixture for an extra-thick crust that will stay crispy longer.
Step 4: Fry the Wings
Heat vegetable oil in your deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F (190°C). Carefully lower 8-10 wings into the hot oil to avoid overcrowding and maintain proper temperature. Fry the wings for approximately 13 minutes until they achieve a deep golden brown color and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the cooked wings to a cooling rack to drain excess oil while maintaining their crispy texture.
Step 5: Make the Honey BBQ Glaze
Combine 1 cup hickory smoke BBQ sauce, ¼ cup water, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon ketchup, and 1 teaspoon liquid smoke in a small saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium-low heat while stirring constantly until it reaches a smooth consistency. Keep the glaze warm on low heat to ensure proper coating when we toss the wings. The sauce should have a glossy appearance and coat the back of a spoon without being too thick.
Step 6: Toss Wings in Sauce
Immediately transfer the hot fried wings to a large mixing bowl while they’re still steaming. Pour the warm honey BBQ glaze over the wings and toss vigorously using tongs until every wing is completely coated. Work quickly to ensure the sauce adheres properly to the crispy coating. Serve the wings immediately while they’re hot and the coating maintains its perfect crunch.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results
Success with these KFC-style honey BBQ wings depends on mastering three crucial techniques. These professional tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results every time.
Temperature Control
We maintain oil temperature at exactly 375°F (190°C) throughout the entire frying process to ensure perfectly crispy wings without greasiness. A deep-fat thermometer becomes essential here since temperature fluctuations can ruin the coating texture.
Frying wings in small batches prevents the oil temperature from dropping too dramatically when cold chicken hits the hot oil. We recommend frying no more than 6-8 wing pieces at once to maintain consistent heat levels.
Monitor your thermometer continuously and adjust the heat source as needed. Oil that runs too hot will burn the coating before the chicken cooks through while cooler oil creates soggy wings that absorb excess grease.
Achieving the Right Crispiness
The buttermilk marinade serves a dual purpose by tenderizing the meat while creating better flour adhesion for our signature crispy crust. We let the wings soak for at least 30 minutes to maximize these benefits.
Draining fried wings on a wire rack instead of paper towels prevents steam buildup that can soften the crispy coating. This technique keeps the crust crunchy while excess oil drips away naturally.
Double coating creates an extra-thick crust that stays crispy even after sauce application. We dip each wing in buttermilk then flour twice for maximum crunch factor.
Allow the coated wings to rest for 10-15 minutes before frying. This resting period helps the coating adhere better and creates a more uniform crust during the frying process.
Sauce Application Techniques
Warming the honey BBQ sauce before tossing ensures even coating without cooling down our freshly fried wings. Cold sauce can cause the coating to become soggy and less appealing.
We toss wings gently using large spoons or tongs to preserve the delicate crispy coating while ensuring complete sauce coverage. Aggressive mixing can break apart the carefully crafted crust.
Applying sauce immediately after frying gives us the perfect balance between crispy texture and flavorful coating. The residual heat from the wings helps the sauce adhere without creating a soggy mess.
For those who prefer maximum crispiness we recommend serving the sauce on the side for dipping. This method maintains the coating’s integrity while still delivering that signature honey BBQ flavor with each bite.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We recommend preparing these KFC-style honey BBQ wings ahead of time to make entertaining easier and ensure the best possible results. Planning ahead allows us to break down the cooking process into manageable steps while maintaining that signature crispy texture.
Wings Preparation (Up to 24 Hours Ahead)
We can marinate the chicken wings in buttermilk up to 24 hours before cooking. This extended marination time actually improves the tenderness and helps the flour coating adhere better during frying. Store the marinating wings covered in the refrigerator and remove them 30 minutes before coating to bring closer to room temperature.
Flour Coating (Up to 1 Hour Ahead)
After coating the wings in our seasoned flour mixture we can refrigerate them for up to 1 hour before frying. This chilling step enhances both flavor development and texture by allowing the coating to set properly. Place the coated wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to prevent sticking and maintain airflow around each piece.
Honey BBQ Sauce (Up to 3 Days Ahead)
Our honey BBQ sauce stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when kept in an airtight container. We simply need to reheat it gently in a small saucepan or microwave before tossing with the freshly fried wings. Gentle warming prevents the honey from crystallizing and ensures smooth coating coverage.
Frying Strategy
While we cannot fry the wings completely ahead of time without sacrificing crispiness we can organize our frying setup in advance. Prepare the oil temperature and have all equipment ready so the actual frying process moves quickly and efficiently.
Serving Timeline
For best results we recommend frying and saucing the wings within 30 minutes of serving. The wings maintain their optimal crispiness when served immediately after coating with the warm honey BBQ sauce. This timing ensures we deliver that perfect combination of crunchy exterior and flavorful glaze that makes these wings irresistible.
Storage and Reheating
Properly storing our homemade KFC Honey BBQ Wings ensures we can enjoy their delicious flavor even after the initial cooking session. We recommend allowing the fried wings to cool completely before placing them in storage containers to prevent condensation from making the coating soggy.
Refrigerator Storage
We should store the cooked wings and honey BBQ sauce separately in airtight containers within our refrigerator. This separation prevents the sauce from breaking down the crispy coating during storage. Our wings maintain their best quality for up to 3 days when refrigerated properly.
| Storage Component | Container Type | Duration | Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked Wings | Airtight container | Up to 3 days | 40°F (4°C) |
| Honey BBQ Sauce | Separate container | Up to 1 week | 40°F (4°C) |
Optimal Reheating Method
We achieve the best results by reheating our wings in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 10-15 minutes. This method restores the coating’s crispiness without drying out the meat. Placing the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet allows hot air to circulate around each piece for even heating.
Sauce Reheating Process
We reheat the honey BBQ sauce separately using gentle heat on our stovetop or in the microwave. Once both components reach the proper temperature we toss the wings in the warmed sauce before serving. This technique ensures our reheated wings taste nearly as good as freshly made ones.
Methods to Avoid
We strongly advise against microwaving wings directly for extended periods as this method makes the breading soggy and ruins the texture we worked hard to achieve. The microwave’s steam creates moisture that destroys the crispy coating that makes these wings special.
Serving Suggestions
We recommend serving these crispy honey BBQ wings hot straight from the fryer for maximum impact. The wings pair beautifully with classic KFC-style sides that complement their sweet and smoky flavor profile.
Classic Side Combinations
Coleslaw makes an excellent accompaniment that cuts through the richness of the glazed wings. The cool crisp texture provides a refreshing contrast to the warm sticky coating. Wedge potatoes offer another authentic pairing that mirrors KFC’s traditional menu combinations.
Appetizer and Main Dish Options
These wings work perfectly as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties and gatherings. We suggest arranging them on a large platter with small bowls of extra honey BBQ sauce for dipping. For main dish service we recommend 6-8 wings per person alongside your chosen sides.
Game Day and Casual Entertaining
The sweet tangy smoky flavor profile makes these wings ideal for game day spreads. We like to serve them alongside other finger foods like loaded potato skins or jalapeño poppers. Their sticky glaze and crispy texture create an irresistible combination that keeps guests coming back for more.
Temperature and Timing
Serve the wings within 30 minutes of tossing them in the warm honey BBQ sauce. This timing ensures the coating maintains its signature crispiness while the glaze remains glossy and flavorful. We recommend keeping extra sauce warm in a small saucepan for guests who want additional coating.
Presentation Tips
Garnish the platter with fresh herbs like chopped green onions or parsley to add color contrast. Provide plenty of napkins and wet wipes since these wings create a deliciously messy eating experience. Small finger bowls with lemon water help guests clean their hands between servings.
Recipe Variations
We understand that not everyone has access to a deep fryer or prefers alternative cooking methods. These variations allow you to enjoy delicious honey BBQ wings using different techniques while maintaining that signature KFC flavor.
Baked Version
Baking offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing the crispy texture we all crave. Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Follow the same buttermilk marinating process and flour coating technique as the original recipe.
Place the coated wings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer without overcrowding. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and develop a golden brown exterior. Turn the wings halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on both sides.
The baked method reduces oil consumption significantly while still delivering satisfying crunch. Pat the wings dry with paper towels after baking to remove any excess moisture before tossing in the honey BBQ sauce.
Air Fryer Option
Air frying produces remarkably similar results to deep frying while using much less oil. Set your air fryer to 360°F (182°C) and prepare the wings using the same buttermilk and flour coating process.
Place the coated wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer without touching each other. Cook for 25-30 minutes total cooking time. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to promote even browning and prevent sticking.
The circulating hot air creates exceptional crispiness that rivals traditional frying methods. Check the wings for doneness by ensuring they reach 165°F (74°C) internal temperature before removing from the air fryer.
Spice Level Adjustments
Customizing the heat level allows everyone to enjoy these wings according to their preferences. For a milder version reduce or completely omit the black pepper from the flour coating mixture.
Adding heat requires strategic ingredient placement for maximum impact. Incorporate 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper or chili powder directly into the flour mixture for consistent spice distribution. Alternatively blend 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce into the honey BBQ glaze for concentrated heat.
Balance sweetness with spice by adjusting the honey quantity in the sauce. Increase honey by 1-2 tablespoons when adding important heat to maintain flavor harmony. The liquid smoke component enhances smoky depth without contributing additional heat making it perfect for building complex flavor profiles.
| Spice Level | Flour Addition | Sauce Addition | Honey Adjustment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mild | Reduce black pepper by half | None | Standard amount |
| Medium | Standard recipe | 1 tbsp hot sauce | Add 1 tbsp honey |
| Hot | Add 1 tsp cayenne | 2 tbsp hot sauce | Add 2 tbsp honey |
| Extra Hot | Add 2 tsp cayenne | 3 tbsp hot sauce | Add 3 tbsp honey |
Conclusion
We’ve walked you through everything you need to create those irresistible KFC-style Honey BBQ Wings right in your own kitchen. With the right technique and a little patience you’ll be serving up wings that rival your favorite restaurant.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility – whether you’re deep frying for maximum crispiness or using healthier alternatives like baking or air frying you can still achieve that perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors we all crave.
Now it’s time to fire up that fryer and treat yourself to some seriously delicious homemade wings. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you for mastering this crowd-pleasing recipe that’s sure to become a regular in your cooking rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make KFC Honey BBQ Wings without a deep fryer?
Yes! You can bake the wings at 425°F for 45-50 minutes, flipping halfway through, or use an air fryer at 380°F for 25-30 minutes. While the texture may differ slightly from deep-fried wings, both methods still produce crispy, delicious results with less oil.
How long should I marinate the wings in buttermilk?
Marinate the wings in buttermilk for at least 2 hours, but ideally 4-24 hours for best results. The longer marination time helps tenderize the meat and allows the coating to adhere better, resulting in crispier wings with enhanced flavor.
Can I prepare the honey BBQ sauce in advance?
Absolutely! The honey BBQ sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it gently before tossing with the wings. This make-ahead approach actually allows the flavors to develop and meld together beautifully.
What’s the best oil temperature for frying the wings?
Maintain your oil temperature at 375°F (190°C) for optimal results. Use a cooking thermometer to monitor the temperature consistently, and fry wings in small batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping, which can result in greasy, soggy wings.
How do I store leftover wings and sauce?
Store cooled wings and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce can last up to a week. Keep them separate to maintain the wings’ crispiness and prevent the coating from becoming soggy.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover wings?
Reheat wings in a preheated 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. Warm the sauce separately in a saucepan over low heat. Avoid microwaving the wings as this will make the coating soggy and ruin the texture.
Can I adjust the spice level of these wings?
Yes! Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the honey BBQ sauce for heat, or include paprika and garlic powder in the flour mixture. Start with small amounts and taste-test, as you can always add more spice but can’t remove it once added.
Why do my wings turn out greasy instead of crispy?
Greasy wings typically result from oil temperature being too low, overcrowding the fryer, or not draining properly. Maintain 375°F oil temperature, fry in small batches, and drain wings on a wire rack rather than paper towels to prevent steam buildup.
Should I toss the wings in sauce immediately after frying?
For maximum crispiness, toss wings in warm sauce immediately after frying and serve right away. If you prefer extra-crispy wings, consider serving the sauce on the side for dipping to maintain the coating’s integrity throughout the meal.
What sides pair best with KFC-style Honey BBQ Wings?
Classic pairings include coleslaw, potato wedges, mac and cheese, and biscuits. Fresh celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing also complement the sweet and tangy flavors perfectly. These wings work great as both appetizers and main dishes.
