5 min
40-45 min
8-10 drumsticks
snack, appetizer, side dish
United States
These wings are baked until crispy, then generously coated in a rich elderberry BBQ sauce that strikes the perfect balance between tangy and sweet. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a family dinner, or simply looking for a tasty snack, these wings are sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
- elderberry bbq sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
What makes these wings special is the quality of the ingredients. We use organic elderberries and wholesome ingredients, made by real people in small batches on our ROC farm in Maine.
Directions
Prepare the Chicken Wings:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top.
Season the Wings:
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels, then place them in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Toss to coat evenly.
Bake the Wings:
Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake for 40-45 minutes, turning them over halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Make the Elderberry BBQ Sauce:
Follow our elderberry BBQ sauce recipe!
Coat the Wings:
Once the wings are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the elderberry BBQ sauce over the wings and toss until they are fully coated.
Broil for Extra Caramelization (Optional):
For an extra caramelized finish, place the coated wings back on the wire rack and broil for 2-3 minutes until the sauce becomes sticky and slightly charred. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Serve:
Serve the wings hot with extra elderberry BBQ sauce or ranch on the side for dipping, and enjoy!
Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes, you can use frozen wings! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning and baking. This helps the wings become nice and crispy.
Can I make the sauce in advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the elderberry BBQ sauce up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and simply warm it up before coating the wings.
How do I make the wings extra crispy?
For extra crispy wings, make sure to pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning. Baking them on a wire rack allows air to circulate, which helps them crisp up. You can also broil them for 2-3 minutes after coating with the sauce for an extra caramelized finish.
Can I use the elderberry BBQ sauce on other dishes?
Absolutely! This sauce is versatile and can be used on ribs, pulled pork, grilled veggies, or even as a dipping sauce for fries or chicken tenders.
What can I serve with these wings?
These wings pair well with classic sides like celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a creamy coleslaw. For a more substantial meal, serve them with cornbread, potato wedges, or a fresh garden salad.
How do I reheat leftover wings?
To reheat leftover wings, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until they’re heated through. This helps them stay crispy rather than becoming soggy in the microwave.
Are these wings spicy?
The wings have a mild kick thanks to the smoked paprika and optional cayenne pepper in the BBQ sauce. If you prefer them spicier, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Can I grill the wings instead of baking them?
Yes, grilling the wings is a great option! Grill them over medium heat for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until they are cooked through and crispy. Then, toss them in the elderberry BBQ sauce and grill for a few more minutes to caramelize the sauce.