Here’s a delicious recipe for Pineapple Chicken Wings, featuring a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze that perfectly complements the savory, crispy wings. These wings are sure to be a hit at your next party or family meal!
Pineapple Chicken Wings Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Wings:
- 12-16 chicken wings (drumettes or flats, or both)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Pineapple Glaze:
- 1 cup fresh pineapple juice (or canned pineapple juice)
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (to thicken the glaze)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (optional)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Wings:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (this will help them crisp up).
- In a bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Make sure the wings are well-coated.
- If baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and arrange the wings in a single layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are crispy and golden brown.
- If grilling: Grill the wings for 20-25 minutes, turning them every 5 minutes until fully cooked and crispy.
2. Make the Pineapple Glaze:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, pineapple chunks, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar (if using), garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Slowly add this mixture to the simmering glaze while stirring continuously.
- Continue to simmer the glaze for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens into a syrupy consistency.
- Remove the glaze from the heat and set aside.
3. Coat the Wings:
- Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm pineapple glaze over the wings and toss gently to coat them evenly.
- For extra glaze, you can drizzle more over the top or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
4. Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the wings with chopped cilantro or green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve immediately with extra pineapple chunks or a side of rice and vegetables.
Tips:
- For Extra Crispiness: If you want extra crispy wings, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the pineapple glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Grilled Version: These wings can also be grilled for a smoky flavor. Just baste them with the glaze during the last few minutes of grilling.
These Pineapple Chicken Wings are a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, with a nice kick from the optional red pepper flakes. They’re perfect as an appetizer, a snack, or a main dish! Enjoy!