I make Crockpot Honey Chipotle Chicken Wings when I want bold, sticky wings with almost no effort. They’re sweet, smoky, and spicy, with tender meat that practically falls off the bone thanks to the slow cooker.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because the crockpot does all the hard work for me. The honey balances the smoky heat of the chipotle perfectly, and the wings turn out incredibly flavorful. I also like that these wings are great for parties, game days, or an easy dinner without turning on the oven for hours.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
chicken wings
salt
black pepper
garlic powder
smoked paprika
honey
chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
ketchup
soy sauce
apple cider vinegar
olive oil
optional chopped cilantro or green onions
Directions
I start by seasoning the chicken wings with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. I place them in the crockpot in an even layer.
In a blender or bowl, I mix together the honey, chipotle peppers, ketchup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until smooth. I pour the sauce over the wings and toss gently to coat them evenly.
I cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the wings are fully cooked and tender.
For extra sticky wings, I transfer them to a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes, brushing with extra sauce, until lightly caramelized.
Servings and Timing
I usually get 4 servings from this recipe.
Prep time: about 10 minutes
Cook time: 4 to 5 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high
Total time: about 4 to 5 hours
Variations
I sometimes add extra chipotle peppers when I want more heat. When I want a sweeter version, I increase the honey slightly. I also like finishing the wings on the grill instead of the oven for a smoky char.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, I warm them in the oven or air fryer to keep the skin from getting soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken wings?
I prefer thawed wings, but I extend the cooking time slightly if they’re frozen.
Are these wings very spicy?
I find them mildly to moderately spicy, and I adjust the chipotle amount to control the heat.
Do I need to broil the wings at the end?
I don’t have to, but I like broiling them for extra texture and caramelization.
Can I make these wings ahead of time?
I cook them ahead and reheat them just before serving.
What can I serve with honey chipotle wings?
I like serving them with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or simple roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
I keep Crockpot Honey Chipotle Chicken Wings in my rotation because they’re easy, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. With sweet heat and tender texture, this recipe gives me wings that feel indulgent with minimal effort.
Crockpot Honey Chipotle Chicken Wings
- Author: Olivia
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Tender, sticky chicken wings slow-cooked in a sweet, smoky, and spicy honey chipotle sauce for bold flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1/3 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: chopped cilantro or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Season chicken wings with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Place the wings in an even layer in the crockpot.
- In a blender or bowl, combine honey, chipotle peppers, ketchup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the wings and gently toss to coat.
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until wings are tender and fully cooked.
- Optional: Transfer wings to a baking sheet, brush with extra sauce, and broil for a few minutes until lightly caramelized.
- Garnish with cilantro or green onions before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Adjust chipotle peppers to control spice level.
- Broiling adds texture but is optional.
- Finish on the grill for extra smoky flavor.
- Great for parties, game day, or easy dinners.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 760mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
