Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings

Sweet, tangy, and packed with flavor, Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings are a delightful twist on your traditional chicken wing recipe. Coated in a savory-sweet glaze made from pineapple, brown sugar, and soy sauce, these wings will surely impress any crowd. Baked to crispy perfection and tossed in a luscious sauce, this dish makes for an irresistible appetizer or main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings brings together the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The marinade is a combination of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar, creating a rich, deep flavor that perfectly complements the crispy chicken wings. The pineapple chunks add a juicy texture, while the garlic and ginger lend an aromatic depth to the dish. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe that will be a hit at any gathering or as a tasty dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 900 g chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats

• 120 ml pineapple juice

• 60 ml soy sauce

• 55 g brown sugar

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger

• 60 ml pineapple chunks

• 8 g cornstarch

• 30 ml water

• Salt, to taste

• Black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until the sugar is dissolved.

3. Add the chicken wings to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

4. Arrange the marinated wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Season with salt and black pepper. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the skin is golden.

5. While the wings are baking, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a smooth slurry.

6. Transfer the remaining marinade to a saucepan over medium heat. Add the pineapple chunks and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually pour in the cornstarch slurry, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens.

7. Remove the wings from the oven. Transfer them to a serving bowl and toss thoroughly with the warm pineapple sauce. Serve immediately, garnished as desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add some red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.

• Grilled Option: Instead of baking the wings, you can grill them over medium heat until crispy, then toss in the pineapple sauce.

• Pineapple Teriyaki: Add some teriyaki sauce to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor and complexity.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the wings in the oven at 180°C for 10–15 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little bit of the sauce to keep them moist.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the wings?

For best results, marinate the wings for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, you can marinate them for up to 2 hours to enhance the flavor.

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, frozen wings can be used. Just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and baking.

Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

Yes, you can use a soy sauce alternative like tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free or soy-free version.

Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken can be used, but adjust the cooking time as boneless wings cook faster than bone-in ones.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat it before tossing the wings in.

Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Yes, adding some sautéed bell peppers or onions to the sauce can enhance the flavor and make it more of a complete meal.

How do I make the wings extra crispy?

For extra crispy wings, bake them on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around the wings, resulting in crispier skin.

Can I fry the wings instead of baking them?

Yes, you can fry the wings for a crispier texture. Heat oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 180°C and fry the wings until golden brown and crispy.

How do I know when the wings are fully cooked?

The wings are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 75°C. You can check with a meat thermometer to ensure they are safe to eat.

Can I freeze the wings?

Yes, you can freeze the wings after cooking. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.

Conclusion

Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings are the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy, making them a favorite for any occasion. With easy-to-find ingredients and a quick prep time, you can make this dish for a family dinner, party, or even a casual weeknight meal. The crispy wings, tossed in a luscious pineapple glaze, offer a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these wings will leave everyone wanting more.