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Savory Maple Bourbon Glazed Wings with Bacon Crumble

maple bourbon glazed wings - featured image

These wings feature a sticky, rich maple bourbon glaze paired with a smoky bacon crumble topping, delivering a sweet-savory flavor that’s perfect for quick weeknight meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup
  • ¼ cup bourbon (e.g., Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace)
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for heat

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (about 5 minutes). Season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne if using.
  2. Cook bacon slices until crispy (10-15 minutes at 400°F). Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces. Set aside.
  3. Arrange wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. While wings roast, combine maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring often, until thickened and coats the back of a spoon (8-10 minutes).
  5. Transfer roasted wings to a large bowl. Pour warm maple bourbon glaze over and toss gently to coat evenly.
  6. Sprinkle bacon crumble over glazed wings and toss lightly or serve immediately with topping scattered on top.
  7. Serve hot, optionally with slaw or roasted vegetables.

Notes

Dry wings thoroughly before roasting for crispy skin. Simmer glaze gently to avoid burning. Add bacon crumble last to maintain crunch. Use a food thermometer to ensure wings reach 165°F. For air fryer method, cook wings at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, then glaze and add bacon crumble.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken wings, maple bourbon glaze, bacon crumble, savory wings, party appetizer, easy recipe, game day food