Juicy slow cooked BBQ chicken wings served with a side of dipping sauce

Mouthwatering Slow Cooked BBQ Chicken Wings

Mouthwatering Slow Cooked BBQ Chicken Wings
easystar
3 hourtime

Nutritional value per serving

Calories320kcal

Carbs12gram

Fat18gram

Protein25gram

Ingredients

Quantity
  • Chicken wings (fresh, skin-on)1 kg
  • BBQ sauce (choose your favorite brand, or homemade for best flavor)1 cup
  • Honey (preferably raw or organic for natural sweetness)2 tbsp
  • Garlic powder1 tsp
  • Onion powder1 tsp
  • Smoked paprika (or regular paprika)1 tsp
  • Salt (sea or kosher salt preferred)1 tsp
  • Black pepper (freshly ground recommended)0.5 tsp
  • Olive oil or vegetable oil1 tbsp

This slow cooked BBQ chicken wings recipe yields tender, juicy wings infused with smoky and tangy barbecue sauce, perfect for any casual get-together or cozy dinner. Using the slow cooker ensures the wings stay moist and flavorful with minimal hands-on time. The total ingredient cost is approximately $12 USD, €11, £9, and ₹950. Each serving contains around 320 kcal. This recipe is suitable for a standard diet and is easy to prepare, taking about 45 minutes total, including preparation and slow cooking time. Follow food safety guidelines carefully for best results.

Preparation instructions

Prepare the chicken wings

1Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and reduces excess moisture.

Mix seasoning and sauce

2In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.

Coat the wings

3Place the dry wings in a large bowl or directly in the slow cooker insert. Drizzle oil over the wings, then pour the BBQ mixture on top. Toss until all wings are evenly coated with the sauce and seasoning.

Preheat the slow cooker

4Set your slow cooker to LOW and let it warm up for about 5 minutes before adding the wings.

Slow cook the wings

5Transfer the wings with sauce into the slow cooker insert evenly. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 3 hours, or until chicken wings reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F), verified with a food thermometer.

Optional: Broil for crispiness

6For crispy skin, preheat your oven broiler. Place wings on a baking sheet lined with foil. Broil for 3-5 minutes until the skin crisps up, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Serve hot

7Serve your BBQ chicken wings immediately with your favorite sides or dipping sauce. Enjoy your tender and flavorful homemade slow cooked BBQ wings!

Cooking Tips

1Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.

2Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure wings have reached 75°C (165°F), which is essential for safe poultry consumption.

3If you prefer less sweet BBQ, reduce or omit honey from the sauce.

4Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat thoroughly before serving.

Equipment Needed

  • Slow cooker
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Tongs or spoon for tossing
  • Meat thermometer
  • Oven broiler (optional)

Shopping List

  • [ ] Chicken wings, 1 kg (Look for fresh wings with pink skin and no off odors.) - Approx. $6
  • [ ] BBQ sauce, 1 cup (Choose your preferred flavor; check sugar content if watching intake.) - Approx. $3
  • [ ] Honey, 2 tbsp (Opt for raw or organic for better flavor.) - Approx. $0.50
  • [ ] Garlic powder, 1 tsp (Freshly ground garlic can be used as a substitute.) - Approx. $0.10
  • [ ] Onion powder, 1 tsp (Can substitute with finely minced onion if preferred.) - Approx. $0.10
  • [ ] Smoked paprika, 1 tsp (Adds smoky flavor; regular paprika works too.) - Approx. $0.20
  • [ ] Salt, 1 tsp (Sea or kosher salt recommended.) - Approx. $0.05
  • [ ] Black pepper, 0.5 tsp (Freshly ground adds depth.) - Approx. $0.05
  • [ ] Olive or vegetable oil, 1 tbsp (Choose light-tasting oil.) - Approx. $0.10

Total approximate cost: $10 - $12

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Cooking frozen wings can result in uneven cooking, risking food safety.

How do I know when the chicken wings are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken wings are safe to eat when they reach 75°C (165°F). Cook times may vary slightly depending on your slow cooker.

Can I prepare the wings in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the wings in the BBQ sauce for a few hours or overnight in the fridge before slow cooking to enhance the flavor.

Why should I broil the wings after slow cooking?

Broiling crisps up the skin, adding a delicious texture contrast to the tender cooked meat. This step is optional but highly recommended.