Introduction to Wingstop Hot Honey Rub Recipe in 2024
The Wingstop hot honey rub is a unique seasoning mix that balances the heat of spicy peppers with the sweetness of honey. The combination of flavors not only adds depth to chicken wings but can also be used on other dishes like grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even snacks like popcorn. The rub is dry, meaning it doesn’t make the wings saucy, but it still packs a punch with every bite.
This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a little kick but also want a hint of sweetness. And the best part? You can easily adjust the recipe to your taste preferences—whether you want more heat, more sweetness, or something in between.
Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious Wingstop hot honey rub at home.
Table of Contents
Wingstop Hot Honey Rub Recipe
Ingredients
To make the Wingstop hot honey rub, you’ll need a combination of spicy, sweet, and savory ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/4 cup honey powder: This gives the rub its signature sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: For a base layer of heat.
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika: Adds a rich, smoky flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: For an extra kick of spiciness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings a savory element to the mix.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth to the seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: To balance out the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder: For a subtle tanginess.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a warm, slightly sweet undertone.
Instructions
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the honey powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, salt, mustard powder, and ground ginger. Mix them well until fully blended.
- Coat the chicken wings: Take your chicken wings (about 1.5 to 2 pounds) and pat them dry with a paper towel. This ensures that the seasoning sticks well to the wings. Drizzle the wings with a small amount of oil (about 1 tablespoon of olive oil or vegetable oil) to help the rub adhere.
- Apply the hot honey rub: Generously coat the wings with the seasoning mixture, making sure each wing is evenly covered. Use your hands or a pair of tongs to toss the wings and get the seasoning into every crevice.
- Let the wings sit: Once coated, let the wings sit for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the rub to infuse into the chicken, making the flavors more intense.
- Bake or fry the wings:
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack. Arrange the wings in a single layer and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.
- Frying: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the wings in batches for about 8-10 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the wings are cooked, remove them from the oven or fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them with a side of ranch dressing, blue cheese, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Perfect Hot Honey Wings
- Adjust the heat level: If you prefer your wings on the milder side, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or skip it altogether. For a spicier kick, you can add more cayenne or try using a hotter chili powder.
- Honey glaze: If you want a saucier finish, drizzle the wings with a little bit of real honey before serving. This will enhance the sweet flavor and make the wings even more indulgent.
- Try different proteins: This hot honey rub works well not only on chicken wings but also on chicken thighs, pork chops, or even grilled shrimp.
- Storage: You can store any leftover rub in an airtight container for up to 2 months. This way, you’ll always have it on hand for future meals.
Nutrient Table for Wingstop Hot Honey Rub
Below is a nutrient breakdown per serving (assuming one batch of seasoning is used for 2 pounds of chicken wings):
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 150 kcal |
Total Fat | 8g |
Saturated Fat | 2g |
Cholesterol | 50mg |
Sodium | 600mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 12g |
Dietary Fiber | 1g |
Sugars | 6g |
Protein | 14g |
Vitamin A | 15% DV |
Vitamin C | 4% DV |
Calcium | 2% DV |
Iron | 6% DV |
Note: The exact nutritional values may vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used and the size of the chicken wings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. It’s Easy to Make
One of the best things about this hot honey rub is how easy it is to prepare. You don’t need any special equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Everything can be found in your pantry or local grocery store, and you can whip up a batch in just minutes.
2. Customizable to Your Taste
If you love experimenting in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for you. You can easily adjust the levels of sweetness and spiciness to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be used on various dishes, not just wings.
3. Healthier than Store-Bought Options
By making your hot honey rub at home, you can control exactly what goes into it. This means no artificial preservatives, excess sodium, or unhealthy additives. You can make a healthier version that still tastes amazing.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the big game, or just craving some comfort food, these hot honey wings are a crowd-pleaser. Serve them with some fries, a salad, or coleslaw, and you’ve got a delicious and satisfying meal.
FAQs
What is the Hot Honey Rub at Wingstop?
The Hot Honey Rub at Wingstop is a dry seasoning that combines the sweetness of honey with a spicy kick from chili and cayenne pepper. This rub gives chicken wings a flavorful balance of sweet and heat without making them saucy, making it a favorite for those who enjoy bold flavors.
What is Honey Hot Wing Sauce Made Of?
Honey hot wing sauce is typically made from a blend of honey, hot sauce, butter, garlic, and spices like cayenne pepper. This combination creates a perfect mix of sweetness and heat, ideal for coating chicken wings for a sweet and spicy flavor experience.
Conclusion
The Wingstop hot honey rub is a must-try for any chicken wing lover. With its perfect blend of sweetness and heat, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making wings for a party or just a weeknight dinner, this easy-to-make rub will take your meal to the next level.
By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can recreate this iconic flavor at home and customize it to your liking. Plus, with the added benefit of knowing exactly what ingredients go into your rub, you can enjoy these wings guilt-free.
So, the next time you’re craving Wingstop, skip the takeout and make your own hot honey wings right in your kitchen!