Introduction
These Pineapple Chicken Wings bring a tropical twist to a classic favorite. The combination of juicy chicken wings, sweet pineapple glaze, and a touch of soy sauce creates a perfectly balanced dish that’s ideal for parties, game days, or weeknight dinners. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Wings
- 2 pounds chicken wings (drumsticks and flats)
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pineapple Glaze
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
For Garnish
- Fresh pineapple slices
- Chopped green onions (optional)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Marinate the Chicken Wings
- In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken wings to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly spray with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
3. Bake the Chicken Wings
- Remove the wings from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
- Arrange the wings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, turning halfway through, until the wings are cooked through and slightly crispy.
4. Make the Pineapple Glaze
- While the wings bake, combine pineapple juice, honey, and soy sauce in a saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5–7 minutes until the glaze thickens.
5. Brush with Glaze
- After 30 minutes of baking, brush the wings generously with the pineapple glaze.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, allowing the glaze to caramelize.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Arrange the wings on a serving platter and garnish with fresh pineapple slices, chopped green onions, or sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- Marination: Longer marination leads to more flavorful wings. Overnight is ideal!
- Extra Crispy: For crispier wings, broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
- Make It Spicy: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned pineapple juice?
Yes, canned pineapple juice works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s unsweetened if you prefer a less sugary glaze.
2. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat the wings in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes to maintain their crispy texture.
3. Can I grill the wings instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grill the marinated wings over medium heat, brushing them with the pineapple glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
These Pineapple Chicken Wings are the perfect fusion of sweet and savory, delivering a tropical flavor explosion in every bite. With a golden caramelized glaze and tender, juicy meat, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. Pair with a side of coconut rice or a fresh salad for a complete tropical feast!