Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings

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🍍 Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings

Description

Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings are sticky, sweet, tangy, and absolutely irresistible! Juicy chicken wings are coated in a caramelized glaze made from brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, and soy sauce. These wings are perfect for game days, family dinners, or party appetizers, delivering a tropical twist with every bite.

📝 Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken wings (drums and flats, cleaned and patted dry)

  • 1 cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)

  • ½ cup brown sugar (packed)

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce

  • 2 tbsp ketchup (for extra tang & color)

  • 2 garlic cloves (minced)

  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)

  • 1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry, for thickening)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for baking prep)

  • Salt & pepper to taste

  • Garnish: sesame seeds & chopped green onions

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prep the wings

    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

    • Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly grease.

    • Season wings with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.

    • Spread evenly on the tray and bake 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway until golden and crispy.

  2. Make the pineapple glaze

    • In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, and vinegar.

    • Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.

    • Add chili flakes if using.

  3. Thicken the sauce

    • Stir in the cornstarch slurry, whisking until sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

    • Remove from heat.

  4. Coat the wings

    • Toss baked wings in the pineapple-brown sugar glaze until fully coated.

    • For extra caramelization, return wings to oven for 5–7 minutes under the broiler.

  5. Serve

    • Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

    • Serve hot with pineapple slices or dipping sauce.

🍽️ Servings

  • Makes 4 servings (as appetizer) or 2 servings (as main dish).

📊 Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 385

  • Protein: 27g

  • Carbs: 28g

  • Fat: 18g

  • Fiber: 0.5g

  • Sugar: 23g

  • Sodium: 720mg

💡 Notes

  • For a smokier flavor, grill the wings instead of baking.

  • Use fresh pineapple juice for the best tropical flavor.

  • Adjust sugar depending on sweetness preference.

  • Sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 1 week.

🔑 Tips

  • Pat wings dry before baking for maximum crispiness.

  • Add sriracha or hot sauce to the glaze for spicy-sweet wings.

  • Toss wings in sauce just before serving to keep them from getting soggy.

  • Double the sauce recipe if you like extra dipping on the side.

🌟 Benefits

  • High in protein – great for muscle repair and energy.

  • Pineapple contains bromelain, which helps digestion.

  • Homemade glaze avoids artificial preservatives.

  • Perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors.

❓ Q & A

Q1: Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry wings at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway. Toss in the glaze after.

Q2: Can I use boneless chicken instead of wings?
Absolutely! Boneless thighs or tenders work well—just adjust cooking time.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven/air fryer for crispiness.

Q4: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Q5: What pairs well with these wings?
Great with fried rice, coleslaw, grilled veggies, or a fresh pineapple salad.

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