Name: Irresistible Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken wings, split at joints, tips removed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 cup pineapple juice; 0.5 cup brown sugar; 0.25 cup soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 1 tablespoon chili paste or sriracha; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; 0.25 cup chopped pineapple chunks; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with these irresistible Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings. An enticing blend of savory and sweet, these wings are glazed with a luscious mix of brown sugar, pineapple juice, and a hint of spice that creates a tropical burst of flavor in every bite. Perfectly baked or air-fried, these wings are not just a treat for your taste buds; they are also a feast for the eyes. The glossy glaze and colorful toppings make them an attractive addition to any table, whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying game day snacks, or just craving something delicious for dinner. This easy recipe for Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings promises to be your new favorite go-to for flavorful finger food.

Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly cooked wings that are juicy inside, coated with a radiant glaze that strikes a perfect balance between sweet and tangy. They are easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making them ideal for impressing guests or satisfying your cravings. No matter the occasion, these wings are guaranteed to delight both kids and adults alike, transforming a regular meal into something spectacular.

Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings

Flavorful Glaze: The combination of brown sugar and pineapple juice creates a sticky, sweet glaze that complements the savory chicken perfectly.
Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main course—the possibilities are endless!
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is great for cooks of all levels.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner with family or a festive gathering with friends, these wings fit right in.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this scrumptious recipe, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by cleaning your workspace to ensure a hygienic cooking environment. You’ll need a few tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable:

First, grab a large mixing bowl for marinating your chicken wings. A whisk will help combine the ingredients for the sauce evenly. For cooking, an oven or an air fryer is necessary, depending on your preference. Using a wire rack over a lined baking sheet will ensure the wings cook evenly in the oven, allowing hot air to circulate around them. Finally, keep some measuring spoons and cups handy for accurate ingredient measurement.

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken wings, split at joints, tips removed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 cup pineapple juice
0.5 cup brown sugar
0.25 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 tablespoon chili paste or sriracha
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
0.25 cup chopped pineapple chunks
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
2 tablespoons chopped green onions

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings

Start off by ensuring your chicken wings are dry. Use paper towels to pat them down and remove any excess moisture. This step is vital as it allows the skin to crisp up beautifully during cooking. Once they are dry, place the wings in a large bowl.

Step 2: Marinate the Wings

In the same bowl, add olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cornstarch to the wings. Toss everything together until the wings are evenly coated in the seasoning mixture. This marination will contribute to the deep flavor profile, enhancing the wings’ taste.

Step 3: Cook the Wings

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or your air fryer to 380°F (195°C). For the oven method, place the wings on a wire rack over a lined baking sheet and bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. If you opt for the air fryer, cook in batches for about 25–30 minutes, giving the basket a good shake halfway to promote even cooking.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

While the wings are cooking, it’s time to prepare the glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, ginger, and chili paste. Stir occasionally and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for around 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to make a slurry. Slowly add it to the simmering glaze, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens to a glossy finish. This step is crucial as it gives the glaze its iconic thickness and helps it cling to the wings.

Step 6: Add Pineapple Chunks

Add the chopped pineapple chunks to the sauce and cook for an additional minute. This will warm the pineapple, intensifying its sweetness, and contribute a delightful texture to the glaze.

Step 7: Toss and Serve

Once your wings are cooked, toss them in the warm glaze. Ensure each wing is beautifully coated to maximize flavor with every bite. To finish, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the glazed wings for an extra crunch and a burst of color. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

Protein: Swap out chicken wings for drumsticks or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Vegetables: Add sugar snap peas or bell peppers to the glaze for a wholesome twist.
Spices: Experiment with different spices like cayenne pepper for an extra kick or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.

Cooking Notes

Make sure to use a wire rack for even cooking in the oven; it helps to crisp the skin better.
For added flavor, consider marinating the wings in the spice mix for a few hours or overnight.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these wings with celery and carrot sticks for a refreshing crunch alongside your tasty dish.
Pair with a light dip like ranch or blue cheese for added richness and balance against the sweetness of the wings.

Tips

Ensure your oven is preheated to the right temperature for the best crispiness.
You can adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more or less brown sugar to suit your taste.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 900mg

FAQs

Can I make these wings in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the wings ahead of time. Marinate them, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just ensure they sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking.

What can I serve with these wings?

These wings pair beautifully with a variety of sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.

Can I use frozen wings?

Yes, frozen wings can be used, but you will need to thaw them first for the best result. You can thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or in cold water for a quicker option.

What if I don’t have pineapple juice?

If you don’t have pineapple juice, you can substitute it with orange juice or a mixture of water and a bit of brown sugar for sweetness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings are sure to become a household favorite. With their unique combination of sweet and savory flavors, they are a perfect choice for any occasion. The ease of preparation paired with the impressive presentation makes this dish a true winner, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a casual meal at home. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations of the recipe to tailor it to your taste. Share your cooking experiences with us, and let us know your favorite ways to enjoy these delicious wings! Happy cooking!