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When the weekend rolls around, my thoughts often drift to the backyard barbecues of summer—friends laughing, the grill sizzling, and that wonderfully smoky aroma in the air. This was the inspiration behind my latest culinary adventure: Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings. Picture this: the juicy crunch of perfectly baked chicken wings enhanced by a sweet and tangy sauce that marries rich barbecue flavors with vibrant strawberry notes.

One afternoon, I found myself scrolling through some old recipes, yearning for something to turn my everyday wings into a true showstopper. That’s when the idea hit me—why not elevate traditional barbecue sauce with a fruity twist? The result is a delightful sensation that I simply had to share. Not only is this dish crowd-pleasing, but it’s also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for casual get-togethers or a cozy night in. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

Why love Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings?

Irresistible flavor: Combining sweet strawberries with smoky barbecue delivers a taste explosion that captivates your palate.
Easy preparation: With incredibly simple steps, anyone can master this recipe, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice.
Perfect for gatherings: These wings are a guaranteed hit at parties, leaving your guests raving and coming back for more.
Versatile choice: Whether it’s game day or a casual family dinner, these wings fit the bill beautifully.
Healthier baking: Baking instead of frying keeps them lighter without sacrificing that crispy texture you crave.
Get ready to elevate your recipe collection and impress your loved ones with this delicious twist on a classic dish!

Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings Ingredients

• It’s time to gather all the delicious components for your Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings!

For the Chicken Wings

Chicken wings – Use fresh or frozen wings, both will work wonderfully if thawed completely.
Sea salt – Enhances the flavor of the wings, ensuring every bite is savory perfection.
Paprika – Adds a lovely smokiness and vibrant color to the dish.
Poultry seasoning – A blend that complements the chicken, infusing aromatic herby notes into each wing.

For the Sauce

Barbecue sauce – Choose your favorite brand for that signature tangy flavor.
Strawberry jam or strawberry preserves – This gives the sauce a sweet twist that pairs beautifully with smoky barbecue.
Hot sauce – Use your favorite heat level to customize the spice kick of the wings.
Optional: Cayenne pepper – For those who like a little extra kick, this spice can elevate the heat of your sauce.

Get ready to toss these flavorful ingredients together and create a dish that will surely become a family favorite!

How to Make Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This will ensure your wings bake evenly, achieving that ideal crispy texture.
Rinse and pat the chicken wings dry. This step helps the seasoning adhere better and prevents excess moisture, leading to crispier skin.
Season your wings with sea salt, paprika, and poultry seasoning. Make sure to coat evenly for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Spray a sheet pan with coconut oil spray. This will prevent the wings from sticking and give them a lovely golden color.
Separate the wings if needed, ensuring that the flats are distinct from the drumettes for even cooking.
Place wings on the prepared sheet pan, giving them enough space to cook evenly and crisp up beautifully.
Spray or brush the wings with oil or more coconut oil spray. This promotes that coveted crispy finish as they bake.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, turning about halfway through. You want them golden brown and cooked through, ensuring juicy meat.
Finish under the broiler for the last five minutes. This step enhances the crispiness and creates a delicious char.
Simmer the barbecue sauce, hot sauce, and strawberry jam on low heat. Let it blend together for about five minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Remove wings from the oven and toss them in the strawberry BBQ sauce, ensuring each wing is coated with that sweet and spicy goodness.
Garnish with fresh strawberries for a pop of color and a fruity touch that complements the wings beautifully.

Optional: Serve with a side of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings?

When you’re ready to create a hearty feast around these flavor-packed wings, think of pairings that enhance their sweet and spicy kick.

Crispy Potato Wedges: These golden-brown wedges add a delightful crunch, perfectly soaking up any leftover sauce for that extra burst of flavor.
Fresh Coleslaw: A zesty, crunchy slaw brings a refreshing contrast to the rich wings, balancing the meal beautifully with its tangy dressing.
Baked Mac and Cheese: Creamy and comforting, this cheesy delight pairs well with the tartness of the wings, creating a scrumptious, cozy meal.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, a buttered corn on the cob adds a touch of sweetness and a crunchy texture that complements the spicy sauce.
Garlic Bread: Toasty and warm, garlic bread offers a savory side that’s perfect for munching alongside your wings while soaking up every last bit of sauce.
Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing drink cuts through the richness of the wings with its bright citrus notes, making every bite feel fresh and invigorating.

Imagine a table filled with these vibrant sides, each one inviting you in for a mouthwatering adventure. Your gathering won’t just be another meal; it’ll be a feast to remember!

Expert Tips for Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings

Dry the Wings: Ensure the wings are thoroughly dried after rinsing. This prevents steaming, allowing for that wonderfully crispy texture you desire.
Even Seasoning: When seasoning with salt, paprika, and poultry seasoning, be generous but even. An uneven coating can lead to some wings being under-seasoned.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees they’re cooked through and safe to eat.
Broiler Finish: Don’t skip the broiler step! It crisps the skin and adds an irresistible char that elevates your Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings to star status.
Sauce Consistency: Adjust the heat of your sauce according to your preference. Test a small batch of sauce first to ensure it has the perfect balance of sweet and spicy!
Garnish Wisely: Fresh strawberries are a delightful garnish, but feel free to add chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flair and flavor contrast.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings

Room Temperature: Store any leftover hot wings uncovered for up to 2 hours to maintain their crispy texture. After that, refrigerate them promptly.

Fridge: Keep the wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they regain their crunch.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy your strawberry barbecue hot wings again, reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until crispy and heated through.

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to streamline their weeknight routine! You can season the chicken wings and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can also prepare the strawberry barbecue sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just reheat it gently before tossing it with the wings. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the prepped wings as directed in the recipe, finishing them under the broiler for that irresistible crispiness. This way, you’ll enjoy the same rich, sweet, and tangy flavor with minimal effort!

Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect batch of wings!

Honey Garlic: Substitute strawberry jam with honey for a sweet, sticky glaze that adds a delightful depth of flavor. A hint of garlic in the sauce can elevate the taste even further.
Spicy Sriracha: Use Sriracha instead of hot sauce for a tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries. This twist will have your wings singing with a fiery flair.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the wing seasoning for an aromatic twist. These herbs can infuse the wings with a lovely, garden-fresh note that complement the BBQ beautifully.
Crispy Asian: Toss wings in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a touch of ginger before baking for a delicious Asian-inspired twist. Finish with sesame seeds and green onions for a gorgeous presentation.
BBQ Chipotle: Swap out standard barbecue sauce for a smoky chipotle barbecue variant for a deeper, spicier flavor profile. The smoke complements the sweet strawberries and adds a bold punch.
Fruit Fusion: Experiment with different jams, like raspberry or peach, in the sauce. Each fruit brings its own unique sweetness and flavor complexity, leading to a tasty surprise!
Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or lime zest into the sauce for a bright, zesty flavor that lightens the dish and cuts through the richness of the wings. The refreshing tang will balance well with the sweetness.
Gluten-Free: Ensure all sauces and seasonings are labeled gluten-free, or create a homemade blend to keep the wings friendly for gluten-sensitive eaters. Enjoy the same great taste without worry.

Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken wings?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken wings, look for ones with firm, plump meat and no discoloration. Fresh wings should have a pale pink color, while frozen wings should be solid without any signs of frost or freezer burn. If you can, buy organic or free-range wings for better flavor!

How should I store leftover Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings?
Very! To store your leftover wings, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool down before sealing to avoid excess moisture buildup, which can make them soggy. For best reheating results, warm them in the oven to revive their crispy coating.

Can I freeze Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings?
Yes, you can! For freezing, first place the baked and cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 2-3 hours until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. These can be stored for up to 3 months.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen wings?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F and spread the frozen wings on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until they are heated through and crispy again. This method helps maintain their delicious texture!

What if my sauce is too thick or too spicy?
No worries! If your strawberry barbecue sauce turns out too thick, you can add a bit of water or chicken broth a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too spicy, mix in a little more strawberry jam or a splash of vinegar to balance the heat. Both adjustments can create a smoother harmony of flavors.

Are Strawberry Barbecue Hot Wings safe for pets?
It’s best to keep the wings away from pets. The seasonings and sauces can be too salty or spicy, which might upset their stomachs. Instead, you can share a plain, plain piece of cooked chicken without any seasoning as a treat for your furry friend!