Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings

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Sticky, sweet, savory, and just a little spicy—these Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings are my go-to when I want something indulgent and crowd-pleasing. There’s something magical about the caramelized glaze that forms when brown sugar melts into pineapple juice, wrapping each crispy wing in a glossy, flavor-packed coat. When I make these, they disappear faster than I can set the plate down.

I’ve tested this recipe at parties, game nights, and even random weeknights when I needed a pick-me-up. The best part? It’s not overly complicated. The sauce does all the heavy lifting, balancing tangy pineapple with deep molasses-rich sugar and just enough heat to keep things exciting. These wings hit all the right notes—sweet, sticky, tangy, and finger-licking good.

Why You’ll Love This Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Recipe

These wings are all about contrast: crispy and tender, sweet and savory, sticky and spicy. The brown sugar and pineapple combination is a flavor bomb that caramelizes beautifully, while a touch of chili adds a subtle kick. They’re perfect for parties, appetizers, or even dinner if you’re feeling a little indulgent. Plus, they’re easy to make in the oven or air fryer.

What Kind of Pineapple Should I Use?

Fresh or canned pineapple both work wonderfully here, but I lean toward canned pineapple chunks in juice (not syrup) for ease and consistency. The juice becomes part of the glaze, and the chunks get caramelized and slightly charred, adding bursts of tangy-sweet flavor in every bite. If you have fresh pineapple, just make sure it’s ripe and juicy.

Options for Substitutions

Don’t have everything on hand? No problem. Swap the chicken wings for drumettes or even boneless thighs if you prefer. No brown sugar? Try coconut sugar or maple syrup. If pineapple isn’t your thing, mango or orange juice can step in. For extra heat, toss in sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes. You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your pantry or your taste.

Ingredients for this Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Recipe

Chicken wings – The star of the dish. Choose fresh or thawed wings, split at the joint with tips removed for easier handling and even cooking.

Brown sugar – Adds that deep, molasses-like sweetness which balances out the savory and spicy notes. It also caramelizes beautifully during cooking.

Pineapple chunks – Provide bursts of juicy, tropical flavor and cook down into the sauce. They also give the glaze a sticky, fruity richness.

Pineapple juice – The base for the sauce. It adds tang and helps create that sticky-sweet consistency.

Soy sauce – Delivers umami depth and saltiness to balance the sweetness.

Garlic (minced) – Gives the glaze a sharp, aromatic kick that brings everything together.

Ginger (grated) – Adds warm, spicy undertones that complement the pineapple.

Chili flakes or hot sauce – Optional, but perfect if you like a hint of heat to balance the sugar.

Cornstarch – Helps thicken the glaze so it sticks to every wing.

Sesame seeds & chopped green onions – For garnish. They add crunch, color, and a subtle nutty freshness.

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Step 1: Prep the Chicken Wings

Start by patting the wings dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so this step is crucial. If your wings are whole, cut them into drumettes and flats. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.

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Step 2: Bake or Air Fry the Wings

Preheat your oven to 425°F (or your air fryer to 375°F). Arrange the wings in a single layer on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (or in the air fryer basket). Bake or air fry for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

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Step 3: Make the Brown Sugar Pineapple Glaze

In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Dissolve cornstarch in a bit of water, then stir it in. Let it simmer until thickened into a glossy glaze.

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Step 4: Add Pineapple Chunks

Toss in the pineapple chunks and cook them in the glaze for 3–5 minutes. They’ll soak up the sauce and become caramelized.

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Step 5: Toss Wings in the Glaze

Once the wings are cooked and crispy, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the hot glaze over the wings and toss to coat evenly. Let them sit for a minute so the sauce can cling and set.

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Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions just before serving. The fresh toppings contrast beautifully with the sticky wings and add the perfect finishing touch.

How Long to Prepare the Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Recipe

Prep Time: Getting everything ready takes around 15–20 minutes. That includes cutting and drying the wings, measuring your ingredients, and prepping the glaze components like garlic and ginger. If you’re using canned pineapple, that saves even more time.

Cook Time: Expect about 35–40 minutes in the oven or 25–30 minutes in an air fryer. During this time, you can make the glaze so everything comes together hot and fresh at the same time.

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Tips for Perfect Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings

• Pat the wings completely dry before cooking to help them crisp up.
• Use a wire rack in the oven so the wings cook evenly and fat drips away.
• Simmer the glaze low and slow to avoid burning the sugar.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer basket; air circulation is key to crispy skin.
• Toss the wings in the glaze while they’re still hot so it adheres properly.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the drying step: Wet wings won’t crisp. Always blot with paper towels.
• Over-thickening the glaze: It should coat a spoon but still be pourable.
• Cooking at low temperature: You need high heat for crispness. Don’t go below 400°F.
• Not flipping the wings: Turning them halfway ensures even browning.
• Adding glaze too early: Glazing too soon can make the wings soggy. Always coat them at the end.

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What to Serve With Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings?

1. Coconut Rice

Light, fragrant, and creamy coconut rice balances the bold, sticky glaze.

2. Crunchy Slaw

A tangy cabbage slaw adds crunch and acidity, refreshing your palate between bites.

3. Sweet Potato Fries

Slightly sweet and salty, these fries pair well with the sticky-sweet flavor of the wings.

4. Grilled Pineapple

Bring out more tropical notes with some charred pineapple rings on the side.

5. Pickled Cucumbers

A chilled, vinegary pickle gives a crisp bite that cuts through the richness.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerating: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The glaze will thicken as it chills but remains flavorful.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10–15 minutes or in the air fryer for 5–7 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy. Avoid microwaving if possible—it makes the skin soggy.

Freezing: You can freeze the cooked wings before tossing in sauce. Reheat and glaze fresh for the best texture.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 wings):

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 700mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these wings in advance?

Yes! Bake the wings ahead, store them in the fridge, and reheat before tossing in fresh glaze.

Can I use boneless chicken?

Absolutely. Boneless thighs or tenders work well. Just adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild kick from optional chili flakes or hot sauce. You can easily dial it up or down.

Can I grill the wings instead of baking?

Yes! Grill over medium-high heat until cooked through, then toss in the glaze.

How do I thicken the glaze if it’s too runny?

Add a little more cornstarch slurry and simmer gently until it reaches your desired thickness.

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Conclusion

Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings are the kind of dish that turns any meal into a special occasion. Sweet, sticky, with that irresistible balance of savory and spice, they’re perfect for entertaining or just treating yourself. The juicy pineapple, rich glaze, and crispy wings come together like magic. Once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again.

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