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Wingstop Hot Honey Rub recipe with crispy sweet and spicy chicken wings served fresh

Wingstop Hot Honey Rub Recipe

This Wingstop Hot Honey Rub recipe delivers perfectly crispy chicken wings coated in a sweet, spicy, and smoky dry rub made with honey powder, paprika, garlic, and chili. Easy to make at home and packed with bold flavor, these wings are ideal for game nights, parties, or a delicious weekend treat.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:
  • 2.5-3 lbs chicken wings (split, skin-on)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Hot Honey Rub:
  • 3 tbsp honey powder (or 2 tbsp brown sugar + 1 tbsp honey powder substitute)
  • 2 tsp paprika (smoked preferred)
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1.5 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Baking tray
  • Wire rack
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Preheat & Prep

  2. Make the Rub

  3. Prepare the Wings

  4. Coat the Wings
  5. Arrange for Baking

  6. Bake Until Crispy
  7. Optional Honey Finish
  8. Serve

Notes

Wingstop Hot Honey rub

  • Pat the wings completely dry before seasoning - this is the secret to extra-crispy skin.
  • If you don’t have honey powder, use a mix of brown sugar + a light drizzle of honey for a similar sweet flavor.
  • Adjust the heat level by increasing or reducing cayenne pepper.
  • Baking on a wire rack ensures even cooking and prevents soggy wings.
  • For extra flavor, toss the wings in a little melted butter after baking to enhance the Wingstop-style taste.
  • You can also air fry the wings at 400°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes for a quick and crispy result.
  • Store leftover rub in an airtight jar for up to 3 months.
  • These wings pair perfectly with ranch, blue cheese dip, celery, and carrot sticks.
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