Barbecue Chicken Wings
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026
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This high-protein dish offers a sophisticated take on classic barbecue chicken wings, featuring a complex, multi-layered sauce that balances sweet, tangy, and smoky notes. By making the sauce from scratch with ingredients like cider vinegar, dark brown sugar, and smoked paprika, you achieve a depth of flavour far superior to any shop-bought alternative. The wings are slowly baked in the oven until the glaze becomes beautifully sticky and the meat is tender, providing a satisfying savoury snack or main course.
Perfect for weekend gatherings or as a nutritious boost for those following an active lifestyle, these wings are incredibly versatile. You can prepare the signature sauce up to two weeks in advance, making this an ideal recipe for stress-free entertaining. Serve them piled high on a platter with a garnish of fresh spring onions, perhaps accompanied by a crisp green salad or some cooling celery sticks to balance the gentle heat of the chilli and Tabasco.
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Ingredients for Barbecue Chicken Wings
475ml ketchup
120ml cider vinegar
120ml water
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons Tabasco sauce
2 tablespoons unsulfured molasses
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons chilli powder
50g (packed) dark brown sugar
2 teaspoons finely minced garlic
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
30 chicken wings (tips removed), rinsed and patted dry
4 spring onions, thinly sliced on the diagonal, for garnish
How to make Barbecue Chicken Wings
Prepare the barbecue sauce ahead of time: Combine all of the sauce ingredients in a heavy saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring, to heat through and to blend the flavours, 10 to 12 minutes. Do not boil. Strain to remove the garlic. Cool to room temperature. (Makes 725ml .) Use immediately or refrigerate, covered, for up to 2 weeks.
Preheat the oven to 350ºF.
Using a sharp knife, separate the chicken wings at the joint. Set aside.
Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and toss well with 350ml the sauce. Lay the pieces in a single layer on 2 or 3 baking sheets (do not overcrowd them). Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, basting once or twice with additional sauce. Serve the wings on a platter and sprinkle with the spring onions.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
17 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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