Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken-Crispy baked wings glazed in a tropical brown sugar pineapple sauce—sweet, savory, and finger-licking good
Introduction
These Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings are a tropical twist on classic chicken wings. Baked until golden and crispy, then tossed in a sticky glaze made with pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and warm spices, they’re the kind of dish that disappears fast at any gathering.
Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something bold and flavorful, these wings deliver sweet heat and juicy perfection in every bite.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Wings
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split and tips removed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Non-stick spray (for rack)
For the Glaze
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp water
For Garnish
- Sliced green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Wings
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray with non-stick spray.
- Season wings with salt and pepper. Arrange in a single layer on the rack.
Step 2: Bake
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
- In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, ketchup, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Whisk into the sauce.
- Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Glaze and Finish
- Transfer baked wings to a large bowl. Pour glaze over and toss to coat.
- Return wings to the rack and bake for an additional 10 minutes to caramelize.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot and sticky!
Time Breakdown
Task Time
Prep 10 minutes
Bake 55 minutes
Total Time ~1 hour 5 minutes
Tips for Success
- Use a wire rack to help wings crisp evenly.
- Marinate wings overnight in the glaze base for deeper flavor.
- Adjust heat: Add more chili flakes or a splash of sriracha.
- Make ahead: Bake wings and glaze separately, then toss and reheat before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with jasmine rice or pineapple fried rice
- Pair with coleslaw or grilled veggies
- Add a tropical drink like mango iced tea or pineapple mojito
Variations to Try
- Air Fryer Option: Cook wings at 375°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway
- Boneless Version: Use chicken tenders or thighs for easy eating
- Tropical Twist: Add pineapple chunks to the glaze
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle with crushed cashews or peanuts
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days
- Reheat in oven or air fryer to restore crispiness
- Freeze unglazed wings for up to 1 month—glaze after reheating
Final Thoughts
These Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings are sticky, sweet, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, they’re a tropical escape in every bite.