This is my special method for ensuring my husband’s always cheerful – he’s really into it.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.

In a large bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, ginger, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and salt.

Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss them until they are well coated with the marinade.

Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack, making sure they are not touching each other.

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.

While the wings are baking, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

Once the wings are done, remove them from the oven and brush them with the thickened glaze.

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if using, before serving.

For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade. If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the maple syrup to 1/3 cup and increase the soy sauce to 1/3 cup. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also grill the wings instead of baking them for a smoky flavor.