Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe
There is something truly special about the way sweet and savory flavors come together in the Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe. Imagine crispy, golden chicken wings coated in a luscious pineapple and brown sugar glaze that offers a perfect blend of tropical sweetness and tangy depth. This dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser, balancing flavors so beautifully you’ll keep coming back for more. Whether it’s for a casual gathering or a tasty weeknight treat, these wings hit all the right notes with a sticky, caramelized finish that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple pantry staples and fresh, vibrant additions. Each ingredient plays an essential role in crafting that signature sweet and tangy glaze, while the chicken turns irresistibly crispy and full of flavor.
- Chicken wings (2 pounds): The star of the show, perfect for getting that crispy skin and tender meat.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the wings crisp up beautifully in the oven without drying out.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential basics to season the wings and bring out the flavors.
- Pineapple juice (1/2 cup): Adds a bright, tropical sweetness and pairs perfectly with brown sugar.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Creates a rich caramelized glaze that’s both sweet and slightly smoky.
- Soy sauce (1/4 cup): Brings a savory umami kick, balancing the sweetness.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle tang that keeps the glaze lively and fresh.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Infuses the wings with warm, aromatic depth.
- Ground ginger (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a gentle spicy note that complements the pineapple perfectly.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Gives a touch of heat if you like a little kick.
- Cornstarch + water slurry (1 tablespoon each, optional): For thickening the glaze if you prefer it extra sticky.
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds (optional): Perfect garnishes to add freshness and a bit of crunch.
How to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Wings
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil, then set a wire rack on top and lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Dry the chicken wings thoroughly with paper towels so they crisp up nicely, then toss them with olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the rack for even cooking. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they’re golden and perfectly crispy.
Step 2: Make the Pineapple Glaze
While the wings bake, it’s time to craft that delicious glaze. Combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sugar to dissolve beautifully.
Step 3: Thicken the Glaze (Optional)
If you like your glaze thicker and stickier, stir in the cornstarch slurry you prepared by mixing cornstarch and water. Continue simmering for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens up, coating the back of a spoon luxuriously.
Step 4: Coat the Wings in Glaze
Once your wings are out of the oven, transfer them into a large bowl and pour the pineapple glaze on top. Toss the wings gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is coated in that irresistible sauce that’s bursting with sweet and tangy goodness.
Step 5: Caramelize the Glaze
Return the sauced wings back onto the baking rack and switch your oven to broil on high. Broil the wings for 2 to 3 minutes to caramelize the glaze on top—this step adds an amazing sticky texture and deepens the flavor. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning, as that caramelization happens quickly!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation and add fresh notes, sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the wings right before serving. These little touches introduce a lovely crunch and mild onion flavor that contrast beautifully with the sweet glaze.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fluffy steamed rice or a crisp tropical slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing. The mildness of the rice or the crunch and acidity of the slaw balance the rich, sticky wings perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual gathering, serve the wings on a wooden board lined with banana leaves for a tropical vibe. You can also provide extra glaze as a dipping sauce on the side and offer lime wedges to squeeze on top for a zesty pop. A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or finely diced jalapeños can add extra color and flavor dimension as well.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from the Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. They will stay tasty for up to 3 days, maintaining much of their glaze’s sticky charm.
Freezing
To freeze, place cooled wings in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid clumping. Frozen wings retain their flavor for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even warming.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the wings in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes to get the skin crispy again. You can also reheat briefly under the broiler at the end for extra caramelization—just watch closely to keep them from burning.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the wings before cooking to ensure even baking and the best crispy texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Yes! You can add extra crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle hot sauce into the glaze for a nice heat boost that pairs well with the sweet pineapple.
Can I grill these wings instead of baking?
Definitely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Just cook the wings over medium heat until they are crisp and cooked through, then toss in the glaze and finish with a quick grill to caramelize.
What is the purpose of apple cider vinegar in the glaze?
The apple cider vinegar adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar and pineapple juice, creating a more complex and vibrant flavor profile.
Can I prepare the glaze in advance?
Yes, making the glaze ahead can save time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Warm it gently before tossing with the cooked wings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a snack or main course that delivers on flavor, texture, and that sweet-and-savory punch, you absolutely have to try the Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a celebration in every bite with sticky, crispy wings that everyone will love. Once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this delicious tropical twist in your recipe rotation!
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Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings offer a deliciously sweet and sticky glaze that perfectly balances tropical pineapple juice with savory soy sauce and a hint of spice. Crispy baked chicken wings are coated in a caramelized brown sugar pineapple glaze, making them an irresistible appetizer or main course that’s sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients
Chicken Wings
- 2 pounds chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Glaze
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (slurry, optional for thickening)
Garnish (optional)
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top, lightly greasing the rack to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and black pepper so they are evenly coated. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared wire rack.
- Bake Wings: Bake the wings for 40 to 45 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking. This ensures they become golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Make the Glaze: While the wings are baking, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors.
- Thicken Glaze (Optional): If you prefer a thicker glaze, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for 1 to 2 more minutes until the glaze has thickened to your liking.
- Coat Wings: Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the pineapple glaze over them. Toss the wings thoroughly to coat each piece evenly with the sticky glaze.
- Broil for Caramelization: Return the glazed wings to the baking sheet and place under the broiler on high for 2 to 3 minutes. This step caramelizes the glaze, adding extra flavor and a slight crisp. Be sure to watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the wings with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot, optionally paired with rice or tropical slaw for a complete meal.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, marinate the wings in half of the uncooked sauce for 1 to 2 hours before baking.
- These wings pair excellently with rice dishes or a fresh tropical slaw to complement the sweet glaze.
- If gluten-free soy sauce is used, this recipe is suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Tropical-Inspired
