Name: Sweet and Sour Wings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings and drumettes; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 16 ounces pineapple juice; ½ cup rice vinegar; ½ cup brown sugar; ½ cup ketchup; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water

Sweet and sour wings are the perfect combination of tangy and savory flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a family dinner, or simply indulging in a delicious weeknight treat, these wings are sure to impress. The sticky, glossy sauce clings to each wing, providing a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. Let’s dive into how to create these mouthwatering sweet and sour wings that are bound to become a favorite.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Flavor Explosion: The balance of sweet and tangy flavors makes these wings irresistible.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party or a cozy night in, these wings fit right in.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this recipe.

Gather These Ingredients

2 pounds chicken wings and drumettes
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
16-ounce can pineapple juice
½ cup rice vinegar
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup ketchup
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water

Prep & Cook Tools

Mixing Bowl: For combining the ingredients and marinating the wings.
Baking Sheet: To bake the wings evenly.
Parchment Paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Whisk: To mix the sauce ingredients smoothly.
Meat Thermometer: To ensure the wings are cooked through.

Stepwise Method: Sweet and Sour Wings

Step 1: Prepare the Wings

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a crispy texture. In a large mixing bowl, combine the wings with baking powder and kosher salt, tossing until they are evenly coated.

Step 2: Bake the Wings

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the wings out in a single layer on the sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 3: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

While the wings are baking, prepare the sweet and sour sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the pineapple juice, rice vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, and soy sauce. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves and it starts to simmer.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Gradually add this mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Coat the Wings

Once the wings are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the wings and toss until they are thoroughly coated.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the wings hot, garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy your sweet and sour wings with your favorite dipping sauces, and watch them disappear in no time!

International Equivalents

2 pounds: Approximately 900 grams
1 teaspoon: 5 milliliters
16 ounces: Approximately 475 milliliters
½ cup: Approximately 120 milliliters
3 tablespoons: Approximately 45 milliliters

Cook’s Notes

Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar based on your preference.
If you like a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
For a healthier version, you can grill the wings instead of baking them.
These wings can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven before serving for the best texture.

Save It for Later

If you love these sweet and sour wings, don’t forget to bookmark this recipe or pin it for later! They are perfect for meal prepping, quick lunches, or party snacks. You can also share the recipe with friends and family so they can enjoy this delicious dish too!

Reader Questions

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings! Just make sure to thaw them completely before following the recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

How can I make the wings spicier?

To add some heat to your sweet and sour wings, mix in some hot sauce or red pepper flakes into the sweet and sour sauce. Adjust it to your taste preference for a nice kick!

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air frying the wings can give you that crispy texture without the need for baking. Cook them at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

What sides pair well with sweet and sour wings?

Sweet and sour wings go well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with coleslaw, fried rice, or a simple green salad to balance out the flavors.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! With just a few simple steps, you’ll create a dish that’s not only delicious but also sure to impress. Your friends and family will be asking for seconds, and you’ll have a new go-to recipe in your repertoire. Grab your ingredients, gather your tools, and enjoy the process of making these delectable sweet and sour wings. Happy cooking!