Yummy in my tummy! The best!

There's something so nostalgically comforting about chicken wings, especially when they're tucked under a sweet and tangy cherry glaze. This recipe brings back memories of picnics under wide Midwestern skies and family gatherings where food was the loving centerpiece. The cherry glaze, a nod to the bountiful summer harvests, makes these wings extra special. These Baked Cherry-Glazed Chicken Wings are perfect for any occasion where you want to bring a piece of tradition to the table.

These wings pair beautifully with a heaping bowl of creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp coleslaw, making the perfect balance between sweet and savory. If you're in the mood for something heartier, serve them with some freshly baked cornbread to soak up every bit of that delicious glaze. And of course, a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade never goes amiss.

Servings: 4-6 servings

2 pounds chicken wings
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup cherry preserves
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease it.

Place the chicken wings on the prepared baking sheet and season with salt and black pepper.

Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking to ensure they cook evenly.

While the wings are baking, prepare the cherry glaze. In a medium saucepan, combine the cherry preserves, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the glaze thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.

Once the wings have baked for 25 minutes, remove them from the oven and brush generously with the cherry glaze.

Return the glazed wings to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they are sticky and caramelized. Keep an eye on them to ensure the glaze doesn’t burn.

Remove the wings from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve the remaining cherry glaze on the side for extra dipping.

If cherries aren't in season, you can use store-bought cherry preserves or substitute with apricot or peach preserves for a different twist. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the glaze. Feel free to grill the wings instead of baking them if you prefer a smoky flavor. And if you're short on time, you can marinate the wings in the glaze overnight for even more intense flavor.