Wingstop Hot Honey Rub Copycat Recipe: Easy Steps to Sweet & Spicy Wings

When I first tasted Wingstop’s Hot Honey Rub, I was hooked by its perfect blend of sweet and spicy. I couldn’t wait to bring that irresistible flavor into my own kitchen. After some experimentation, I’ve cracked the copycat recipe that’s just as delicious.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to replicate Wingstop’s Hot Honey Rub:

• Honey – ½ cup
• Brown sugar – ¼ cup, packed
• Paprika – 2 tablespoons
• Garlic powder – 1 tablespoon
• Onion powder – 1 tablespoon
• Cayenne pepper – 1 teaspoon
• Salt – 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper – 1 teaspoon
• Dried thyme – ½ teaspoon

Make sure to measure each ingredient accurately to achieve that perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors that make this rub irresistible.

Tools Needed

Make-Ahead Instructions

Preparing the Hot Honey Rub ahead of time not only saves you valuable minutes on game day but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Here’s how you can make and store your rub for the best results:

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add all the dry ingredients first. This includes brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Stir them together using a whisk to ensure an even distribution of spices. Next, pour in the honey and mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, consistent texture. If you prefer a lump-free rub, sift the mixture through a sieve before storing.

Step 2: Transfer to an Airtight Container

Once your rub is well-mixed, transfer it to an airtight container. Glass jars with tight-fitting lids work perfectly for this purpose. Make sure the container is clean and completely dry to prevent any moisture from affecting the rub’s texture.

Step 3: Label and Date

To keep track of freshness, label your container with the date you prepared the rub. This is especially helpful if you plan to store it for an extended period. Here’s a quick reference:

Step 4: Store Appropriately

Place the labeled container in a cool, dark pantry or cupboard. Avoid areas with direct sunlight or fluctuating temperatures, as these can degrade the quality of your rub. Proper storage ensures that your Hot Honey Rub remains flavorful and ready to elevate your dishes whenever you need it.

Step 5: Bring to Room Temperature Before Use

Before applying the rub to your meats, allow the container to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This makes it easier to spread and ensures an even coating, enhancing the overall taste and texture of your grilled or baked dishes.

By following these make-ahead instructions, you’ll have a delicious Hot Honey Rub ready to enhance your meals anytime, making your cooking experience both convenient and flavorful.

Instructions

I’ve meticulously crafted each step to ensure your wings achieve that perfect Wingstop Hot Honey Rub flavor.

Prepare the Chicken

1. Choose Your Wings

• Select 2 pounds of fresh chicken wings.
• Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the rub adheres properly.

1. Separate the Wings

• Split the wings into drumettes and flats for even cooking.

1. Optional Preheat

• Let the wings sit at room temperature for 20 minutes to promote even cooking.

Make the Hot Honey Rub

1. Measure the Ingredients

1. Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme until well combined.

1. Add Honey

• Gradually add honey to the dry mixture, stirring continuously until the rub is smooth and evenly mixed.

1. Sift if Necessary

• Use a sieve to remove any lumps from the dry ingredients for a smoother texture.

Apply the Rub

1. Coat the Wings

• Place the prepared wings in a large bowl.
• Pour the Hot Honey Rub over the wings, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.

1. Massage the Rub

• Use your hands to massage the rub into the chicken, making sure every nook and cranny is covered.

1. Marinate

• Allow the wings to marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
• For deeper flavor, marinate overnight.

Cook the Wings

1. Preheat the Cooking Surface

1. Prepare the Cooking Surface

• Grill: Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
• Oven: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a rack on top.

1. Cook the Wings

• Grill:
• Place the wings on the grill.
• Cook for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
• Oven:
• Arrange the wings on the rack.
• Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the Wings Rest

• Remove the wings from the heat source.
• Let them rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

1. Garnish

• Drizzle additional honey over the wings for extra sweetness if desired.

1. Plate and Serve

• Arrange the wings on a serving platter.
• Pair them with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauce.

1. Enjoy

• Dive into your homemade Wingstop Hot Honey Rub wings and savor the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Once your wings are perfectly glazed with the Hot Honey Rub, it’s time to elevate your presentation and complement the flavors with the right accompaniments. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve these irresistible wings:

Classic Sides

Pair your wings with traditional sides that balance the sweet and spicy flavors.

• Celery Sticks: Crisp and refreshing, perfect for a crunchy contrast.
• Carrot Sticks: Adds a natural sweetness and vibrant color to your plate.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: A creamy dip that cools down the heat of the wings.
• Ranch Dressing: Another versatile dip option that complements the flavors.

Refreshing Beverages

Choose beverages that enhance the meal without overpowering the taste of the wings.

• Cold Beer: The carbonation and bitterness of beer pair wonderfully with spicy wings.
• Lemonade: A sweet and tangy drink that balances the heat.
• Iced Tea: Unsweetened or lightly sweetened, it’s a refreshing choice.

Additional Flavor Enhancers

Add extra layers of flavor and texture to your meal with these additions.

• Pickles: Their acidity cuts through the richness of the wings.
• Coleslaw: A tangy and crunchy side that complements the sweet and spicy profile.
• Cornbread: Adds a hearty, slightly sweet element to the meal.

Plating Ideas

Presentation can make your meal feel even more special. Here are some plating tips:

• Serving Tray: Arrange the wings in a single layer on a large platter for an appealing look.
• Individual Plates: Serve four to six wings per person with side dips and vegetables arranged neatly.
• Garnishes: Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color.

Pairing Suggestions

Here’s a table of perfect pairings to enhance your Wingstop Hot Honey Rub wings experience:

Hosting Tips

Create a memorable dining experience with these hosting ideas:

• Buffet Style: Let guests serve themselves from a spread of wings, sides, and dips.
• Themed Decor: Use casual, fun decorations like checkered tablecloths or rustic servingware.
• Interactive Dipping Station: Provide a variety of dips and sauces for guests to customize their wings.

Conclusion

Crafting my own Wingstop Hot Honey Rub has truly elevated my wing game The sweet and spicy mix brings a fantastic flavor to every bite It’s satisfying to recreate something I love and share it with friends and family

I hope you enjoy making this copycat recipe as much as I do It’s perfect for game nights, gatherings, or any time you crave delicious wings Happy cooking and savor every tasty moment!