Crispy Honey Cajun Wings
Last Updated on February 6, 2026 by Barbara
There’s a specific kind of magic that happens when bold, unapologetic Cajun spice meets the golden sweetness of honey. These Crispy Honey Cajun Wings are my answer to the “what’s for game day?” question. The offer a sweet heat harmony that sticks to your ribs and your soul. It’s the kind of flavor that doesn’t just sit on the plate, it commands the room.
As the season kicks off, I find myself reaching for this recipe more than any other in my rotation. I will share my personal secrets for achieving a skin that holds its crunch, standing up perfectly under that decadent honey coating without ever getting soggy. Whether you’re feeding a living room full of hungry fans or just looking for a soulful weeknight dinner that packs a punch, these wings are designed to be the MVP of your menu.
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How to Make Crispy Honey Cajun Wings
How to Make Crispy Wings
There are several factors that will help you to achieve crispy wings. For this recipe the key ingredient to achieving golden, crispy chicken wings is baking powder. Baking powder is simply a mixture of baking soda, cream of tartar and cornstarch. The baking powder breaks down the proteins in the chicken skin helping it to brown more effectively during cooking, contributing to the desired crispiness. Baking soda also has a drying effect which essentially yields crispier skin.
Making the Sauce
Honey Cajun sauce is the perfect marriage between sweet and spicy. This combination is perfect for wings, leaving a deliciously sticky coating that is rich in flavor. The sauce is simply made by combining butter, cajun seasoning and honey. Watch my video tutorial and follow the detailed instructions below to make these decadent wings.
Watch Me Make These Crispy Honey Cajun Wings (Video Tutorial)
Ingredients
- Chicken Wings – Use fresh wings for the best outcome. The wings are the star of the show.
- Honey – Honey adds sweetness and balances the spiciness of the cajun seasoning and black pepper.
- Butter – Butter adds a richness that balances the heat of the sauce.
- Baking Powder – Baking powder adds crispiness to the wings.
- Cajun Seasoning – cajun seasoning brings the heat and adds a spicy kick to the wings.
- Garlic Powder – Garlic powder adds a slight garlic flavor and enhances the overall flavor of the wings
- Paprika – Paprika adds a mild spice and sweetness to your wings. It also enhances the color.
- Black Pepper – Black pepper adds a mild heat and a familiar flavor.
- Salt– The salt enhances the flavor of your wings and balances the sweetness of the honey.
What You Will Need
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, paprika, 1 tsp of the Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place the wings in a large bowl, then sprinkle the baking powder over them.
Add the seasoning mixture to the wings and toss until all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 3: Frying the Wings
Place the seasoned wings in the air fryer in small batches, making sure not to overcrowd them. Set the air fryer temperature to 390°F (200°C). Cook the wings for 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
Step 4: Making the Honey Cajun Sauce
In a small pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the honey and the remaining Cajun seasoning to the pot. Stir until the ingredients are fully combined and the sauce is smooth.
Step 5: Coating the Wings
Place the cooked wings in a large bowl. Pour the honey Cajun sauce over the wings and toss until each piece is well coated.
These crispy honey cajun wings are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. I hope you enjoy!
What to Eat With Crispy Honey Cajun Wings
Crispy Honey Cajun Wings are great to serve as an appetizer or at your next tailgate party. They pair well with all of your favorite party foods including chips, nachos and chili. If you want to serve these wings as a main course, pair them with baked mac and cheese, collard greens or corn bread. These wings are sure to enhance any table. Your family and guests will fall in love with them.
What to Do With Leftovers Crispy Honey Cajun Wings
Leftover wings can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 days. Simply place them in an airtight container and ensure they are completely cooled before doing so. For reheating, an air fryer in my opinion is the best option for reheating wings and restoring their crispiness. Heat at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes. You can use a microwave but you risk the wings losing their texture and some flavor.
Other Great Recipes
- Crispy Air Fryer Wings – if you are looking for a recipe for the crispiest wings…look no further.
- Smothered Chicken Wings – Smothered in the richest, tastiest gravy. You will absolutely love them.
- Baked Honey BBQ Wings – these baked BBQ wings are sweet and savory and oh so good.
- Garlic Parmesan Wings – Garlicky with a savory cheesy flavor. Great as an appetizer.
- Smothered Turkey Wings – This soul food classic is great for Sunday dinner or any day of the week.
Soul Food Cooking 101 — Classic Soul Food Recipes: Preserving the Legacy of Authentic Southern Cooking.
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Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken wings
- 1 cup honey
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Method
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, paprika, 1 tsp of the Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Mix until well combined.
- Ensure your chicken wings are clean and thoroughly dried.
- Place the wings in a large bowl, then sprinkle the baking powder over them.
- Add the seasoning mixture to the wings and toss until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Place the seasoned wings in the air fryer in small batches, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Set the air fryer temperature to 390°F (200°C).
- Cook the wings for 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.
- Once cooked, remove the wings from the air fryer and set them aside.
- In a small pot over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the honey and the remaining Cajun seasoning to the pot.
- Stir until the ingredients are fully combined and the sauce is smooth.
- Place the cooked wings in a large bowl.
- Pour the honey Cajun sauce over the wings and toss until each piece is well coated.
- Serve the wings hot, and enjoy the sweet and spicy flavor of these crispy honey Cajun wings.
