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Wingstop Hot Honey Rub Recipe

Wingstop Hot Honey Rub is a sweet, spicy, and smoky-style seasoning used to flavor crispy chicken wings. Unlike a traditional hot honey sauce, which usually contains liquid honey and creates a glossy coating, a hot honey rub relies on dry ingredients to deliver a similar sweet-and-fiery flavor while helping the wings retain their crisp texture. A homemade version typically combines honey powder with spices such as ancho chile, cayenne, paprika, black pepper, and other seasonings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 560
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Wings
  • 3 pounds chicken wings preferably split into flats and drumettes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Hot Honey Rub
  • 3 tablespoons honey powder
  • 2 teaspoons ancho chile powder
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1½ teaspoons onion powder
  • 1½ teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for the dry rub
  • Measuring spoons & cups
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs
  • Two baking sheets
  • Wire baking racks
  • Parchment paper
  • Instant-read meat thermometer

Method
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Allow the oven to reach temperature before putting the wings inside so they begin cooking at the proper heat.
Step 2: Make the Hot Honey Rub
  1. Add the honey powder, ancho chile powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper to a small bowl.
    Stir thoroughly until all of the spices are evenly distributed. Taste a tiny amount of the dry mixture before seasoning the chicken so you can adjust the heat if needed.
Step 3: Dry the Chicken Wings
  1. Place the chicken wings in a large bowl and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels.
    This step is important because excess moisture can interfere with browning and crisping.
Step 4: Add the Olive Oil
  1. Drizzle the olive oil over the wings. Toss with tongs until the wings are lightly coated.
    The oil helps the seasoning adhere to the chicken and promotes better browning during baking.
Step 5: Season the Wings
  1. Sprinkle half of the hot honey rub over the wings. Toss thoroughly with tongs so the seasoning reaches all sides.
    Add the remaining rub and toss again until the wings are evenly coated. Dividing the seasoning into two additions makes it easier to distribute the rub without leaving heavily seasoned or bare areas.
Step 6: Arrange the Wings
  1. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and place a wire rack on each sheet.
    Arrange the wings in a single layer on the racks, leaving a little space between each piece. Avoid stacking or overcrowding them, as this can prevent the skin from becoming properly crisp.
Step 7: Bake the Wings
  1. Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, turning the wings halfway through cooking.
    The honey powder and spices will deepen in color as the wings cook, while the chicken skin becomes crisp and flavorful. The published copycat formula also uses a 425°F oven and approximately 40 minutes of baking time.
Step 8: Check for Doneness
  1. Check the thickest part of the chicken with an instant-read thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
    If necessary, continue cooking until the appropriate temperature is reached.
Step 9: Serve Immediately
  1. Transfer the hot honey wings to a serving platter and let them rest briefly before serving.
    Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing, along with celery, carrots, fries, or another favorite side.
    The finished wings should have a crisp exterior with a sweet honey note followed by smoky chile flavor and a gradually building spicy finish.

Notes

Don't garnish with any seasoning that has come into contact with raw chicken. Always reserve a clean portion separately before seasoning the wings.