Easy crockpot chicken wings made with simple pantry ingredients, slow-cooked until tender and coated in a sweet and savory sauce. This foolproof slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or stress-free family dinners.
There is something comforting about letting dinner cook itself while life happens around you, right? That is exactly why I love making easy crockpot chicken wings. As a busy mom of three here in Florida, slow cooker recipes have saved my sanity more times than I can count.
Chicken wings are usually thought of as party food or game-day snacks, but this recipe turns them into an easy, everyday meal. I often serve them alongside crowd favorites like a creamy dairy free buffalo chicken dip when friends come over. No deep frying. No standing over the stove. Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic.
These wings come out tender, juicy, and full of flavor thanks to a simple soy and honey sauce with garlic and ginger. Whether you are hosting friends, feeding hungry kids, or just craving something cozy, this recipe delivers comfort with minimal effort.
Table of contents
Main Ingredients for Easy Crockpot Chicken Wings
Chicken Wings
- Use 2 pounds of chicken wings, fresh or fully thawed
- Wings become tender and juicy when slow cooked
- Drumettes and flats both work beautifully
- Adds deep, savory flavor
- Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer less salt
- This is the backbone of the sauce
Honey
- Balances the salty soy sauce
- Creates a sticky glaze as the wings cook
- Helps caramelize if you broil later
Garlic
- Fresh minced garlic gives bold flavor
- Garlic powder can be used in a pinch
Ginger
- Fresh grated ginger adds warmth and depth
- Ground ginger works as a substitute
Black Pepper
- Adds gentle heat and balance
- Freshly cracked is best
These simple ingredients come together to create easy crockpot chicken wings that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. If you love bold flavors, you might also enjoy recipes like cowboy butter chicken bites for busy weeknights.
Additional Ingredients
If you want to customize these wings, here are a few easy additions and swaps:
- Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
- Sesame oil for extra depth and richness
- Rice vinegar to add brightness and cut sweetness
- Brown sugar instead of honey for a deeper molasses note
- Hoisin sauce for an Asian-inspired twist
- Lime juice for a fresh, zesty finish
You can also garnish the finished wings with chopped green onions or sesame seeds. Small touches like these make homemade meals feel extra special without extra work.
Expert Tips for Easy Crockpot Chicken Wings
Making easy crockpot chicken wings is simple, but a few expert tips can take them from good to unforgettable.
- Do not overcrowd the crockpot. Wings need space to cook evenly. If doubling the recipe, consider using a larger slow cooker.
- Stir gently halfway through cooking. This helps coat all the wings evenly in sauce.
- Use a liner for easy cleanup. Trust me, future you will be grateful.
- Low and slow is best. Cooking on low yields the most tender wings.
- Want crispy skin? Finish the wings under the broiler for a few minutes.
- Taste the sauce before cooking. Adjust sweetness or salt if needed.
If you are serving these for guests, keep the wings warm on the “keep warm” setting until ready to serve. For variety, I sometimes add another slow cooker dish like this cheesy buffalo chicken dip crockpot to the table. Pair them with simple sides like rice, coleslaw, or roasted veggies.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Step 2: Place the chicken wings in the crockpot in an even layer.
- Step 3: Pour the sauce over the wings and gently toss until fully coated.
- Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours.
- Step 5: Once cooked, serve hot or transfer to a baking sheet and broil for crispier skin.
Each step is simple, and the slow cooker does most of the work for you.
Additional Guide
Want to change things up? Here are a few fun variations. If you crave crispier wings without heating up the oven, you can also check out these air fry frozen chicken wings for another easy option.
- BBQ Style: Add barbecue sauce during the last hour
- Spicy Wings: Add sriracha or chili paste
- Orange Chicken Wings: Add orange juice and zest
- Garlic Butter Finish: Toss with melted butter and garlic
You can even turn leftovers into wraps, salads, or rice bowls. That is the beauty of versatile recipes like easy crockpot chicken wings.
Easy Crockpot Chicken Wings FAQs
Are chicken wings good in a slow cooker?
Yes, chicken wings are excellent in a slow cooker. Easy crockpot chicken wings turn out tender, juicy, and packed with flavor because they slowly absorb the sauce as they cook. While they will not be crispy straight from the crockpot, they are perfect if you love fall-apart meat and rich flavor. For crispy skin, a quick broil at the end does the trick.
Can you just put raw chicken in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Raw chicken is meant to go directly into the slow cooker. When making easy crockpot chicken wings, the low, steady heat safely cooks the chicken all the way through. Just make sure the wings are fully thawed and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
How do you keep crockpot wings from being soggy?
To avoid soggy wings, do not overcrowd the slow cooker and avoid adding extra liquid. Chicken wings release moisture as they cook. For crispier results, place the cooked wings on a baking sheet and broil them for a few minutes. This simple step makes easy crockpot chicken wings taste oven-finished with very little effort.
What is the best method to cook chicken wings?
The best method depends on what you are craving. Frying and air frying give crispy results, while baking offers balance. If you want hands-off cooking and big flavor, easy crockpot chicken wings are hard to beat. They are perfect for busy days when comfort and convenience matter most.
Conclusion
These easy crockpot chicken wings are proof that comfort food does not need to be complicated. With simple ingredients and hands-off cooking, you can create a meal that brings everyone to the table smiling.
As a home cook and mom, I believe food should feel joyful, not stressful. Recipes like this let you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the people you love. If you try these wings, I would love to hear how you made them your own.
Pull up a chair, grab a wing, and enjoy every bite. Good food really does make the best memories.
Easy Crockpot Chicken Wings
Equipment
- Crockpot / Slow Cooker
Ingredients
Chicken Wings
- 2 lbs chicken wings
Sauce
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp garlic minced
- 1 tbsp ginger grated
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Place the chicken wings in the crockpot.
- Pour the sauce over the wings and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours.
- Serve hot and spoon extra sauce over the wings before serving.