Craving a flavor explosion that transports you straight to a sun-drenched Hawaiian beach? Then look no further! This Hawaiian BBQ chicken wings recipe is your ticket to a delicious and easy weeknight dinner, or the star of your next party. These aren't your average chicken wings; we're infusing them with the sweet and tangy essence of the islands, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience. Get ready to ditch the takeout and embrace the joy of homemade cooking with this simple yet impressive recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening the sauce)
- 2 tablespoons water (for thickening the sauce)
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Get Started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Marinate the Wings: In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken wings and toss to coat them evenly. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for a couple of hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
Bake the Wings: Arrange the marinated chicken wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 30-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Make the Sauce: While the wings are baking, prepare the thickening sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk together the sesame oil, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.
Glaze and Serve: Once the wings are cooked, pour the thickened sauce over them and toss gently to coat. You can either return them to the oven for a few minutes to let the glaze set, or serve them immediately. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch of deliciousness.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Wings:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure the chicken wings are in a single layer to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar and honey. Conversely, for a sweeter glaze, add a tablespoon or two more.
- Add some spice: For extra heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
Variations:
- Grilled Wings: For a smoky flavor, grill the chicken wings instead of baking them.
- Air Fryer Wings: Air frying is another great way to cook these wings, resulting in crispy skin and juicy meat. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Nutritional Information (per wing, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 10-15g
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This Hawaiian BBQ chicken wings recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner, a game-day snack, or a fun party appetizer. It's a delicious and healthy meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this taste of paradise!