Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Recipe

Sticky, sweet, and irresistibly tangy, these Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings are the ultimate party snack or weeknight indulgence. Bursting with tropical flavors, the wings caramelize beautifully in the oven, creating a mouthwatering glaze that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make with minimal ingredients and cleanup—just what we all need on busy days!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Fuss-Free: You only need one bowl and one baking sheet. It doesn’t get easier than that.
• Irresistible Flavor: That combo of sweet brown sugar, zesty pineapple, and savory garlic is absolutely addictive.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for game days, gatherings, or casual family dinners.
• Versatile: Works with drumsticks, thighs, or even tofu for a vegetarian spin.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken wings: The star of the show. Make sure they’re patted dry for maximum crispiness.
• Brown sugar: Adds deep, caramel sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze.
• Pineapple juice: Brings a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best. It adds that savory balance to all the sweetness.
• Soy sauce: Provides that umami kick and helps season the wings to perfection.
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the other flavors.
• Chili flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat in their sweet.

Variations

• Make it Spicy: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Herb It Up: Toss in some chopped cilantro or green onions just before serving.
• Switch the Protein: Try boneless chicken thighs, tofu cubes, or even cauliflower florets.
• Grill Them: Perfect for summer BBQs! Just cook them over medium heat until glazed and golden.

How to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment for easy cleanup, and set a wire rack on top if you have one.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, soy sauce, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using.

Step 3: Coat the Wings

Add the wings to the bowl and toss to coat thoroughly. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or longer in the fridge for deeper flavor).

Step 4: Bake

Arrange the wings on the rack in a single layer. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden, sticky, and caramelized.

Step 5: Serve

Let the wings rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the glaze to set up perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Dry Those Wings: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Pat wings dry with paper towels before marinating.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: Give the wings space to roast evenly and develop that perfect sticky crust.
• Broil at the End: For extra caramelization, broil the wings for the last 2-3 minutes. Watch closely!
• Use Fresh Juice: If possible, go for fresh pineapple juice. It makes the flavor pop so much more.

How to Serve

These wings are fabulous on their own but even better with some thoughtful pairings:

Dipping Sauces:

Serve with ranch, blue cheese dressing, or a pineapple-habanero sauce for an extra zing.

Side Dishes:

Pair with coconut rice, coleslaw, or roasted sweet potatoes to balance the sweet and savory flavors.

Drinks:

A crisp lager or a chilled pineapple mojito complements the tropical notes perfectly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze cooked wings in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat in a 375°F oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy again. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

FAQs

Can I make these wings in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook at 380°F for 20-25 minutes, shaking halfway through. The glaze will still caramelize beautifully.

What if I don’t have pineapple juice?
Orange juice can be a great substitute. It’ll be a little different but still delicious.

Can I marinate the wings overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight intensifies the flavor and makes them even more succulent.

Can I use boneless chicken?
Definitely! Just reduce the baking time to avoid drying them out.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings are a flavor-packed delight that deserves a spot in your weekly rotation. They’re ridiculously easy, taste amazing, and feel just a little bit special—whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself. So go ahead, grab that bowl and get these wings in the oven!

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