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These Crockpot BBQ Chicken Wings come together with almost no effort and are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Juicy from slow cooking and slathered in a sticky sweet glaze they are always the first thing to disappear at parties or movie nights
I threw these together on a whim once with frozen wings and everyone raved about them Now they are my go to for easy entertaining and I love the way the kitchen smells as they slow cook
Ingredients
- Chicken wings: Look for plump whole wings with plenty of meat Frozen wings work well and make prep easier
- Cola soda: The soda helps tenderize the meat and adds a subtle sweetness Choose a classic cola or use your favorite variety
- Barbecue sauce: Any favorite brand works but Sweet Baby Rays delivers big flavor If possible pick a thick sauce so it sticks to the wings
- For extra punch: A splash of hot sauce or a smoky style BBQ sauce also works Try to look for a sauce with low sugar if you prefer less sweetness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Crockpot:
- Pour the cola into the bottom of your Crockpot This keeps the wings juicy and prevents sticking
- Arrange the Wings:
- Place the frozen chicken wings in a single or slightly overlapping layer in the Crockpot No need to thaw which saves loads of time
- Slow Cook to Tenderness:
- Cover with the lid and cook on low for three to four hours The chicken should be fully cooked and almost falling off the bone The slow heat breaks down the meat into juicy bites
- Move Wings to Bake:
- Using a slotted spoon transfer the cooked wings gently onto a foil lined baking pan The foil helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking
- Brush with BBQ Sauce:
- Generously brush each wing with barbecue sauce on all sides Be thorough so each bite is flavorful and sticky This is where flavor really builds
- Finish in the Oven:
- Bake at three hundred fifty F for about ten to twelve minutes This step helps the sauce set and caramelize For that irresistible char flip the oven to broil for one to two minutes but keep a close watch to avoid burning
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the sticky wings hot They can be plated simply or piled onto a platter for parties I always set out a stack of napkins because these are as messy as they are delicious
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My favorite barbecue sauce to use is a smoky spicy one because it gets sticky and caramelized under the broiler I still remember my cousin licking her fingers clean and asking for the recipe at our last family potluck
Storage tips
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for three days Reheat in a low oven so the wings stay juicy If you want to freeze them cool fully first then place in a zip bag with extra barbecue sauce Thaw overnight and reheat under the broiler for fresh flavor
Ingredient substitutions
If you want a twist try using Dr Pepper or root beer instead of cola Both add their own sweet and aromatic notes For the sauce feel free to go with honey barbecue or even mix in some buffalo sauce for heat You can use fresh wings and reduce the cooking time by about an hour
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Serving suggestions
Pile on a platter next to celery and cool ranch or blue cheese dressing These wings also shine next to potato wedges or grilled corn They work well as a game day snack or a handheld dinner with crisp coleslaw
A little history
Barbecue chicken wings have roots in American comfort food and became famous thanks to Buffalo style wings Slow cooked barbecue versions like this offer a southern twist letting flavors meld together and can easily feed a crowd with little effort
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use thawed wings instead of frozen?
Yes, thawed wings can be used. Shorten the cooking time in the slow cooker to 2-3 hours, as they're already defrosted.
- → What soda works best for this dish?
Coke adds sweetness, but Dr. Pepper or Root Beer provide great flavor variations. Use your favorite for a unique taste.
- → How do I achieve crispier skin?
After broiling for 1-2 minutes at the end, watch closely for a lightly charred, crispy finish without burning.
- → Can I make these spicy?
Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the BBQ sauce before brushing the wings for an extra kick of heat.
- → Is it possible to prepare ahead of time?
Cook wings in advance and finish under the broiler before serving. Reheat with a fresh layer of BBQ sauce for best results.
- → Do I need to line the baking pan?
Yes, lining the pan with foil makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking when brushing with BBQ sauce.