Are you ready for a finger-licking, delicious chicken wing recipe? Slow Cooker Chicken Wings are the perfect party treat, an easy weeknight dinner, or just a fun snack with friends.

Picture this: juicy chicken wings, falling off the bone, coated in a savory and sweet sauce that will tantalize your taste buds.

You can set your slow cooker and go about your day, and when you come back, you’ll be greeted by the incredible aroma of a delicious meal waiting for you.

Let’s dive into this delightful recipe where simplicity meets flavor!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you love chicken wings but hate the hassle of baking or frying, this slow cooker recipe is for you.

There’s nothing like coming home to the smell of cooked chicken wings that have been simmering in a blend of flavors.

Not to mention, the slow cooker does all the hard work for you.

With minimal prep time and a hands-off cooking process, you can enjoy perfectly tender chicken wings without the fuss.

Perfect for game day, movie night, or just because!

Ingredients

3 ½ pounds (1575 g) chicken wings (drumettes and flats separated, wing tips cut off)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder (divided)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika
1 cup (240 ml) barbecue sauce
¼ cup (60 ml) hot sauce
⅓ cup (80 ml) honey
2 tablespoons chopped green onion (for garnish)

How To Make Slow Cooker Chicken Wings

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings

Start by rinsing your chicken wings under cold water.

Pat them dry with paper towels.

This helps the skin get crispy later on and ensures they absorb all the flavors you’re about to add.

Once they are dry, place them in a large bowl.

Step 2: Season the Wings

Sprinkle the kosher salt, half of the garlic powder, ground black pepper, and paprika over the chicken wings.

Toss them thoroughly to make sure every piece is well-coated with the seasoning.

This is what gives your wings their delicious flavor!

Step 3: Set Up the Slow Cooker

Grease the bottom of your slow cooker with a little oil to prevent sticking.

Now, carefully place the seasoned chicken wings in the slow cooker.

You can layer them if necessary, but try to keep them in a single layer for better cooking results.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a medium bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, remaining garlic powder, hot sauce, and honey.

This sauce is the star of your dish, bringing that sweet, smoky, and spicy flavor that everyone loves about chicken wings.

Step 5: Coat the Wings with Sauce

Pour the sauce over the chicken wings in the slow cooker, making sure each wing is evenly coated.

Lid the slow cooker tightly to keep all that delicious steam inside.

Step 6: Cook

Set your slow cooker on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

The wings are done when they are tender and cooked through.

You know they’re ready when they start to fall off the bone!

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once cooked, you can serve the wings directly from the slow cooker, or for an extra treat, broil them in the oven for a few minutes to get the skin crispy.

Just lay them out on a baking sheet, brush with some of the sauce from the slow cooker, and broil for 3-5 minutes.

Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Expert Tips

For extra crispy wings, broil them in the oven as mentioned above after cooking.
Use a mixture of your favorite barbecue sauce for varied flavors.
Feel free to adjust the hot sauce to your preferred spice level!
Let the wings cool slightly before serving; they’ll be easier to handle.

Variations and Customizations

For a tangy twist, add some apple cider vinegar to your sauce blend.
Experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a heat kick.
Switch out the barbecue sauce for teriyaki sauce for a sweet Asian-inspired flavor.
Try adding a tablespoon of lemon juice for a zesty brightness in the sauce.

How to Store Leftovers

Storing your leftover chicken wings is super easy! Allow the wings to cool down to room temperature.

Then, transfer them to an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator.

They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days.

If you’d like to keep them for longer, you can freeze them! Just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

They’ll be good for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

FAQ

Can I cook frozen chicken wings in the slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook frozen chicken wings in the slow cooker! However, it may take a bit longer for them to cook.

Make sure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How do I know when the chicken wings are done?

Your chicken wings are done when they are tender and the meat pulls away easily from the bone.

Using a meat thermometer, look for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I use other types of sauce?

Absolutely! You can use any of your favorite sauces.

Honey garlic, buffalo sauce, or even a homemade marinade can work great with this recipe.

What can I serve with chicken wings?

Chicken wings are perfect with a variety of sides.

Consider serving them with celery and carrot sticks, a side salad, or a platter of crispy fries.

A dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese dressing can also be a hit!

Conclusion

There you have it – a mouthwatering recipe for Slow Cooker Chicken Wings that’s straightforward and incredibly flavorful! With minimal effort, you can whip up a batch that will impress your family and friends.

Whether it’s a game day feast, a cozy family dinner, or just a casual snack, these wings are sure to be a hit.

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the best chicken wings of your life.

Happy cooking!