Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken

by
Savory Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the sweetness of brown sugar and pineapple with the savory flavor of chicken wings. This recipe is perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or game day snacks. The glaze is sticky, sweet, and full of flavor, making it an irresistible treat for everyone. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress.

Why make this recipe

Making Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken at home has many advantages. First, you can customize the flavor profile to suit your taste preferences. Whether you like it sweeter or spicier, you can adjust the ingredients accordingly. This recipe also allows you to avoid preservatives and additives often found in store-bought sauces. Additionally, cooking at home can be more economical than dining out or ordering takeout. Plus, this dish is perfect for gatherings, making it a hit at potlucks and family get-togethers. With its vibrant flavors and attractive presentation, it’s a crowd-pleaser.

How to make Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken

Making this recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal preparation and cooking time. Below are the ingredients and step-by-step directions that will guide you through the process of preparing this delightful dish.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken wings, split and tips removed
  • 1 cup pineapple juice (240 ml)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (100 g)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (60 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup (30 g)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (15 ml)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger (1 g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (8 g)
  • 1 tablespoon water (15 ml)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray the rack with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
  3. Season the chicken wings with salt and pepper. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the rack.
  4. Bake the wings for 40-45 minutes. Flip the wings halfway through the cooking time. They should become golden and crispy.
  5. While the wings are baking, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic, ground ginger, and chili flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to mix well.
  6. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Whisk this mixture into the sauce in the saucepan. Continue to simmer the sauce until it thickens, about 5 minutes, stirring carefully.
  7. Once the wings are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the glaze over the wings and toss them to coat evenly.
  8. Return the glazed wings to the rack and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This step helps to caramelize the glaze on the wings.
  9. After baking, garnish the wings with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy them hot and sticky!

How to serve Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken

Serving Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken is easy and enjoyable. You can present the wings on a large platter or individual plates. Pair them with fresh vegetable sticks, such as carrots and celery, for added crunch. A side of ranch or blue cheese dressing can also complement the flavor of the wings. For a complete meal, consider serving rice or a simple salad on the side. Your guests will appreciate the combination of flavors, and it will make for a fantastic dining experience.

How to store Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken

If you have leftovers of Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken, storing them is simple. Allow the wings to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat the wings in the oven for the best results. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the wings for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the wings soggy.

Tips to make Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken

To enhance your cooking experience, consider the following tips when making Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken:

  1. Choose quality wings: Fresh or good-quality frozen wings will result in better flavor and texture.
  2. Make the glaze ahead of time: You can prepare the glaze and store it in the fridge for up to a week before using it.
  3. Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of brown sugar or pineapple juice.
  4. Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices or herbs to your wings for more flavor, such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper.
  5. Grill instead of bake: If you want a smoky flavor, consider grilling the wings instead of baking them.

Variation (if any)

You can customize Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken in various ways. For a tropical twist, add some diced fresh pineapple into the glaze for extra texture and sweetness. If you want to enhance the heat, incorporate more chili flakes or fresh chopped jalapeños. Alternatively, for a different flavor profile, consider using honey instead of brown sugar for a unique sweet glaze. Each variation can give you a new twist on this classic recipe.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other cuts of chicken?
A: Yes, you can use drumsticks or boneless chicken pieces. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I make the wings in an air fryer?
A: Yes, air frying is a great way to cook the wings. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through.

Q: Is the glaze gluten-free?
A: To make it gluten-free, you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.

Q: Can I freeze the wings?
A: Yes, you can freeze the wings before baking. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking as directed.

Q: How spicy are these wings?
A: The spice level can be adjusted by omitting the chili flakes or adding more, depending on your preference.

Nutritional Information

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 15g
  • Protein: 25g

Enjoy your homemade Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken, and savor the delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors!