Save to Pinterest These Black Magic Bat Wing Chicken Wings transform ordinary chicken into a showstopping appetizer with a glossy black garlic glaze and dramatic color. Perfect for Halloween or any evening when bold flavor and a little culinary theatrics are called for.
I first whipped up these wings for a Halloween party and they have become a requested favorite at family gatherings and game nights. No one can resist their deep flavor and fun appearance.
Ingredients
- Chicken wings: Choose fresh wings with plenty of skin evenness for maximum crisp texture
- Baking powder: Aluminum-free is crucial to prevent off-flavors and achieve that airy crunch
- Kosher salt: Brightens the chicken’s natural flavor and helps draw moisture out of the skin
- Freshly ground black pepper: Gives savory depth plus a warming bite
- Black garlic: Look for glossy black cloves with a soft texture The unique taste is essential
- Soy sauce or tamari: Tamari works for gluten-free needs Choose a naturally brewed option for smoothness
- Honey: Use good local or single-origin honey rich flavor balances the glaze’s savory notes
- Balsamic vinegar: Traditional-style vinegar adds complexity and gentle acidity to the glaze
- Toasted sesame oil: Deep roasty notes deliver richness use a high-quality brand for authentic flavor
- Unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and depth Choose grass-fed or European-style if available
- Activated charcoal powder: Food-grade only provides color not flavor optional for dramatic effect
- Ground ginger: Dried ginger adds gentle warmth without overpowering the garlic
- Cayenne pepper: For optional gentle heat use fresh and potent powder for best result
- Toasted sesame seeds: For nutty taste and added texture Toast them fresh for best crunch
- Scallions: Choose crisp vibrant stalks They bring brightness and a pop of color
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Rack:
- Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit or 220 degrees Celsius Then line a baking sheet with parchment and arrange a wire rack on top This creates crispy wings by letting air circulate below
- Coat the Wings:
- Put the chicken wings in a large bowl Toss well with baking powder salt and pepper The powder draws out moisture and makes the skin shatteringly crisp
- Arrange and Bake:
- Lay wings in a single layer on your prepared rack Bake for about thirty-five to forty minutes Flip halfway so both sides crisp up The skin should be deeply golden and audible when tapped
- Blend the Glaze:
- While wings bake blend black garlic soy sauce honey balsamic vinegar sesame oil butter charcoal powder ginger and cayenne in a blender or food processor Blend until completely smooth for a sleek glaze
- Heat the Glaze:
- Pour the glaze mixture into a small saucepan Warm gently over medium-low heat until just bubbling and thickened This step intensifies flavor and gives a clingy finish Stop heating as soon as bubbles form
- Glaze the Wings:
- Transfer hot wings to a large bowl Pour over your warm black garlic glaze Toss well so every bit is coated and glossy The color should be striking and uniform
- Garnish and Serve:
- Arrange wings on a plate Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions if you want Serve immediately for the most vibrant texture and flavor
Save to Pinterest Black garlic is my favorite ingredient here I still remember my daughter’s reaction the first time I brought these out for a spooky Halloween dinner She said they looked like magic on the plate then asked for seconds They are now our go-to for parties that call for fun and flavor
Storage Tips
Let leftover wings cool completely then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness Avoid the microwave which can make wings soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
Maple syrup works if you do not have honey Use coconut aminos if soy or tamari is not an option If you skip sesame oil a light splash of avocado oil adds silkiness but do not substitute the black garlic It is irreplaceable for flavor
Serving Suggestions
Pile wings high on a platter with extra glaze on the side for dipping Pair with a crunchy slaw or colorful pickled veggies These are also terrific alongside bubbly drinks or craft beer for a festive spread
Save to Pinterest Once you have made these wings you will understand why they are called Black Magic The aroma when you open the oven door is unforgettable and there is nothing quite like watching a platter of glossy black wings disappear at your next gathering
Common Recipe Questions
- → What does black garlic add to the wings?
Black garlic brings deep, sweet, and umami-rich flavor, creating a unique and complex glaze that complements the chicken.
- → Is activated charcoal necessary for the glaze?
Activated charcoal is optional and used mainly for dramatic color. The wings will taste delicious even without it.
- → How do I make the wings extra crispy?
Pat wings dry, coat with baking powder, and air-dry in the refrigerator before baking for enhanced crispiness.
- → Can I make these wings gluten-free?
Yes, use tamari instead of soy sauce and verify that your baking powder is certified gluten-free.
- → Are these wings spicy?
The glaze includes optional cayenne pepper for mild heat, but you can adjust or omit it to your taste.
- → What is the best way to serve the wings?
For the best texture and presentation, serve immediately after glazing, garnished with scallions and sesame seeds.