Sweet, Spicy, and Addictively Crispy

Who says wings have to be chicken? These Honey-Sriracha BBQ Cauliflower Wings with Cilantro Lime Dip are every bit as crunchy, flavorful, and satisfying as the real thing — just lighter and plant-based! I made these once for game night, and let’s just say the platter disappeared before halftime. They’re sticky, spicy, sweet, and beautifully caramelized on the outside with tender cauliflower inside. Even the biggest meat lovers will go back for seconds (and thirds!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These wings are everything I crave when I want something indulgent but don’t want to feel weighed down afterward. They’re baked or air-fried instead of deep-fried, so you still get that crispy bite without the extra oil. The honey-sriracha glaze hits the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, while the cooling cilantro-lime dip brings everything together. They’re ideal for parties, weeknight dinners, or even as a fun snack when you’re craving something bold and exciting.

Nutritional Benefits That Make You Feel Good

Let’s talk about the good stuff inside! Cauliflower is a low-carb, high-fiber veggie packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. When roasted, it transforms into something golden, nutty, and irresistible. Sriracha adds metabolism-boosting heat, while honey brings natural sweetness instead of refined sugar. And that Greek yogurt–based dip is full of protein and probiotics. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a cheat meal but secretly fuels your body.

Tasty Twists You Can Try

• Make it vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey and your favorite dairy-free yogurt for the dip.
• Extra heat lovers: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne to the glaze.
• Crunch it up: Mix crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs into your coating for ultra-crispy results.
• Asian fusion style: Add a splash of soy sauce or rice vinegar to the glaze for extra depth and tang.

Honey-Sriracha BBQ Cauliflower Wings with Cilantro Lime Dip Recipe

Ingredients

For the Cauliflower Wings:

• 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or chickpea flour for gluten-free)
• 3/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

For the Honey-Sriracha BBQ Glaze:

• 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
• 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon lime juice

For the Cilantro Lime Dip:

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or vegan yogurt alternative)
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven or air fryer: Oven to 425°F (220°C) or air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Make the batter: In a bowl, whisk together flour, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Coat the cauliflower: Dip each floret into the batter, let the excess drip off, then roll in panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
4. Bake or air fry: Arrange the florets in a single layer. Bake for 20–25 minutes (or air fry for 15–18 minutes), flipping halfway through, until crisp and golden.
5. Make the glaze: In a small saucepan, heat honey, sriracha, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice over low heat. Stir until it thickens slightly (about 3 minutes).
6. Toss and glaze: Once the cauliflower is done, toss it gently in the warm honey-sriracha mixture until well coated.
7. Make the dip: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayo, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
8. Serve: Arrange the wings on a platter, drizzle with extra sauce if you like, and serve with the cilantro-lime dip on the side. Pure heaven!

Helpful Tips for the Best Texture

• Don’t overcrowd the pan! Space the florets so they crisp evenly instead of steaming.
• Reheat in the air fryer: If you’ve got leftovers (which I doubt), pop them back in for 5 minutes to revive the crunch.
• Use parchment paper: Keeps the coating from sticking and helps them brown beautifully.
• Balance the heat: If your glaze turns out too spicy, just add a touch more honey or BBQ sauce to mellow it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen cauliflower? Yes, just thaw and pat dry thoroughly before coating — moisture can make them soggy.
2. Can I make them ahead of time? You can prep and bake them, then reheat in the oven or air fryer right before serving for maximum crispiness.
3. How do I make them less spicy? Simply reduce the sriracha and add more honey or BBQ sauce for a sweeter glaze.
4. Can I use a different dip? Absolutely! Ranch, avocado crema, or garlic aioli also taste fantastic with these wings.

Let’s Stay Connected

If you make these Honey-Sriracha BBQ Cauliflower Wings with Cilantro Lime Dip, I’d love to see your version! Snap a photo and tag me on Pinterest — I can’t wait to see your golden, spicy, saucy creations. These wings are guaranteed to steal the show at any gathering… or make a regular Tuesday night feel like a mini party. 🌶️🌿🔥