Name: Delicious Brown Sugar Pineapple Glazed Chicken Wings
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 85 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 3-4 lbs chicken wings, separated; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional); ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp sea salt; 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple with juice, undrained; ¾ cup light brown sugar; ½ cup soy sauce; ¼ cup rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp ginger, grated; 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp cold water; 1-2 tbsp lime juice (optional, for brightness); 2 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted (for garnish); ¼ cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe – just hearing those words evokes images of sticky, glistening chicken, perfectly caramelized and bursting with flavor. I am absolutely thrilled to share with you a dish that consistently steals the spotlight at any gathering and makes weeknight dinners feel like a celebration. This delightful culinary creation perfectly marries the rich, deep sweetness of brown sugar with the vibrant, tropical tang of pineapple, all coating succulent chicken wings to perfection.

While the exact origin of this specific combination might be a modern fusion, the pairing of sweet and savory in chicken dishes has a beloved history across many cultures, from Asian glazes to Caribbean marinades. People adore this dish not just for its incredible, balanced taste profile – the tender chicken, the sticky-sweet glaze with a delightful pineapple zing – but also for its sheer convenience and adaptability. Whether you’re planning a lively game-day party, a casual family dinner, or simply craving something extraordinary, this Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Its irresistible aroma and tantalizing flavors make it an instant favorite, offering a unique blend of comfort and exotic zest that’s truly unforgettable.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Wings:
- 3-4 pounds (approximately 1.4 – 1.8 kg) fresh chicken wings, flats and drumettes separated (or whole if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or neutral oil like avocado or grapeseed)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but adds depth)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
For the Brown Sugar Pineapple Glaze:
- 1 (20-ounce / 567g) can crushed pineapple in juice, undrained
- ¾ cup (150g) light brown sugar, packed (dark brown sugar can be used for a deeper molasses flavor)
- ½ cup (120ml) low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup (60ml) rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a slight tang)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water (for cornstarch slurry)
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, for brightness at the end
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
- ¼ cup fresh green onions, thinly sliced

Preparing the Chicken Wings

Embarking on this delightful Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe begins with meticulously preparing our star ingredient: the chicken wings. Proper preparation is key to achieving that irresistible crispy skin and perfectly cooked interior.

Clean and Pat Dry: First things first, unpack your chicken wings. If you bought whole wings, you’ll want to separate them into flats and drumettes for easier handling and more even cooking. I usually find that a sharp chef’s knife or poultry shears make this task incredibly simple. Rinse the chicken wings under cold water in a colander. This step helps remove any small bone fragments or residual impurities. The most crucial part here, and I cannot stress this enough, is to thoroughly pat the wings dry with paper towels. You want them as dry as possible. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispy skin, and we’re aiming for a glorious, golden crisp on these brown sugar pineapple wings. Take your time with this step; it truly makes a difference in the final texture.
Trim Excess Fat: While patting them dry, take a moment to inspect the wings for any large pieces of excess fat or loose skin. You can trim these away using kitchen shears or a small knife. Removing the bulk of the excess fat prevents the wings from becoming greasy and helps render the remaining fat more effectively, contributing to that desired crispness.
Season Generously: In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried chicken wings with olive oil. The oil acts as a binder for our seasonings and helps conduct heat for even cooking. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), freshly ground black pepper, and sea salt. Use your clean hands or a pair of tongs to toss the wings thoroughly, ensuring every piece is evenly coated with the seasoning blend. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; this initial layer provides a fantastic foundational flavor that will shine through the sweet and savory glaze of our Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe.
Arrange for Baking: Line a large baking sheet (or two, if needed, to avoid overcrowding) with aluminum foil for easier cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the foil-lined baking sheet. This setup is crucial because it allows air to circulate around the entire wing, promoting even cooking and helping the skin to crisp up from all sides. Arrange the seasoned chicken wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring there’s a little space between each wing. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of baking, which again, is detrimental to achieving that perfectly crispy texture we’re after.

Crafting the Brown Sugar Pineapple Glaze

The heart of our Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe lies in its vibrant, sticky, and utterly delicious glaze. This concoction balances sweet, tangy, and savory notes, creating a flavor profile that’s simply addictive.

Combine Glaze Ingredients (Initial): In a medium saucepan, pour in the entire can of crushed pineapple, including its juice. The pineapple forms the sweet, tangy base for our glaze. Add the packed light brown sugar, low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, and red pepper flakes (if you enjoy a little kick). Give everything a good stir with a whisk or spoon until the brown sugar is mostly dissolved.
Simmer to Infuse Flavors: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it continue to cook for about 10-15 minutes. This simmering time is incredibly important; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, deepen, and concentrate. The aromas filling your kitchen during this stage will be absolutely divine, hinting at the deliciousness to come for your Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe. We’re looking for the sauce to reduce slightly and become more cohesive.
Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: While the glaze is simmering, prepare your cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together the 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until no lumps remain. It’s important to use cold water here, as hot water can cause the cornstarch to clump. This slurry is what will thicken our glaze to that perfect, glossy consistency.
Thicken the Glaze: Once the glaze has simmered and its flavors have deepened, slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering glaze, whisking constantly. Continue to whisk for another 1-2 minutes over low heat. You’ll notice the glaze will begin to thicken and become glossy. It should coat the back of a spoon without being too runny. If it seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water or pineapple juice to reach your desired consistency.
Taste and Adjust: This is my favorite part! Carefully taste the glaze. Remember, it’s hot! Adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might find it needs a tiny bit more soy sauce for saltiness, a touch more brown sugar for sweetness, or even a splash of lime juice at this stage to brighten up all the flavors. I often add a teaspoon of fresh lime juice right at the end for an extra zing that perfectly complements the pineapple and brown sugar. Set the glaze aside; it’s ready to transform your chicken wings into a culinary masterpiece.

Baking the Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings

With our wings seasoned and our glorious glaze ready, it’s time to bring everything together and bake these brown sugar pineapple wings to perfection.

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to a robust 400°F (200°C). A higher initial temperature helps render the fat quickly and promotes crispy skin from the start. Make sure your oven has reached the target temperature before you put in the wings for the best results for your Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe.
Initial Bake (Un-sauced): Place the baking sheet with the wire rack and seasoned chicken wings into the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. This initial bake is crucial for getting the wings really crispy before we introduce the glaze. The goal here is to get a nice, golden-brown skin. Baking them naked first prevents the glaze from burning prematurely and allows the skin to reach peak crispiness.
Flip and Continue Baking: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using tongs, flip each chicken wing to ensure even browning on all sides. Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue to bake for another 20-25 minutes. By now, the wings should be looking beautifully golden and quite crisp.
First Glaze Application: Once the wings have baked for a total of 50-55 minutes and are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven. Now comes the moment we’ve been waiting for! Generously brush about half of your prepared brown sugar pineapple glaze over all the chicken wings. Ensure each wing is nicely coated. The glaze will start to caramelize as it bakes, creating that signature sticky, sweet, and savory exterior.
Return to Oven and Glaze Again: Return the glazed wings to the oven. Bake for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the first layer of glaze to set and caramelize. After 10 minutes, remove the wings again, flip them, and brush with the remaining half of the brown sugar pineapple glaze. This layering technique builds up a thick, luscious coating.
Final Bake for Perfection: Place the wings back into the oven for a final 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is beautifully caramelized, sticky, and bubbly, and the internal temperature of the thickest part of the wing reaches 165°F (74°C). Keep a close eye on them during these last few minutes, as brown sugar can burn quickly due to its high sugar content. You want a deep amber color, not black! This final bake ensures the glaze forms a glossy, slightly charred, and utterly delicious crust on your Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe.

Grilling or Broiling for Perfection (Optional but Recommended!)

For an even deeper caramelization and an extra layer of char, taking your baked brown sugar pineapple wings to the broiler or grill is a fantastic finishing touch. This step enhances the texture and brings out another dimension of flavor in your Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe.

Prepare for Broiling/Grilling: If using a broiler, ensure your oven rack is positioned about 6-8 inches from the heating element. If using an outdoor grill, preheat it to medium-high heat.
Broil or Grill: Carefully transfer your fully baked and glazed wings to a clean baking sheet (if broiling) or directly onto the grill grates. Broil for 2-4 minutes per side, or grill for 3-5 minutes per side, turning frequently. The goal here is to achieve those beautiful slightly charred, crispy edges and deepen the caramelization of the brown sugar pineapple glaze. Watch them like a hawk! Sugar burns very quickly under high heat, so do not step away. You want a lovely dark golden-brown, not burnt.
Final Glaze (Optional): If you have any glaze left over, you can give the wings one last light brush immediately after removing them from the broiler or grill. This adds a final layer of freshness to the glaze and makes them extra sticky and irresistible.

Serving Suggestions for Your Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe

Once your sticky, glorious brown sugar pineapple wings are out of the oven or off the grill, they are practically begging to be devoured. Here’s how to serve them up in style:

Garnish and Serve Immediately: Transfer the hot wings to a large serving platter. Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds and fresh, thinly sliced green onions. The sesame seeds add a lovely nutty crunch and visual appeal, while the green onions provide a fresh, pungent counterpoint to the rich, sweet glaze. Serve them immediately while they are hot and at their crispiest.
Complementary Side Dishes: These brown sugar pineapple wings are incredibly flavorful and pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes.
- Rice: Steamed white or brown rice is a classic pairing, perfect for soaking up any extra glaze.
- Coleslaw: A creamy, tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the wings.
- Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed broccoli, green beans, or snap peas with a light dressing would be excellent.
- Asian-inspired Salad: A crisp salad with a ginger-sesame dressing would complement the flavors beautifully.
- Noodles: A side of lo mein or simple stir-fried noodles would also be a fantastic accompaniment.
Extra Glaze for Dipping: If you happen to have any leftover brown sugar pineapple glaze (un-brushed from the wings, of course!), consider warming it gently and serving it in a small bowl on the side for an extra dipping sauce. Some people just can’t get enough of that delicious glaze!
Beverage Pairings: For beverages, consider a crisp lager, a sparkling cider, or even a refreshing iced green tea to complement the sweet and savory notes of your amazing Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe.
Leftovers: If by some miracle you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to help regain some of that crispiness.

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a culinary experience waiting to happen in your kitchen. I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this particular blend of sweet, savory, and tangy, ensuring that every bite delivers a burst of flavor that will leave you craving more. What makes this recipe an absolute must-try, in my humble opinion, is its incredible ability to strike the perfect balance. The rich, caramelized notes from the brown sugar, the bright, tropical zing of pineapple, and the savory depth of perfectly cooked chicken wings come together in a symphony of tastes that is truly unforgettable. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, yet it yields results that taste like they came straight from a gourmet restaurant. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a casual family dinner, or simply looking to impress yourself with your cooking prowess, this recipe promises to be a showstopper. It’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly from the platter, sparking conversations and smiles around the table. Trust me when I say, once you taste the succulent, glazed wings, you’ll understand exactly why I’m so enthusiastic about it.

Now, let’s talk about making this dish truly your own. While the wings are undeniably fantastic on their own, pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal even further. I love serving these glorious wings with a simple side of fluffy white rice, allowing the incredible glaze to soak in and create a truly comforting bite. A vibrant green salad with a light vinaigrette also makes for an excellent counterpoint, cutting through the richness with its crisp freshness. For a more substantial meal, consider a creamy coleslaw or a hearty potato salad. Steamed asparagus or green beans, lightly buttered, also complement the tropical flavors wonderfully. But the fun doesn’t stop there! This recipe is incredibly versatile, inviting you to experiment and personalize it to your heart’s content.

Creative Serving & Flavor Twists!

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not dial up the heat a notch? A pinch of red pepper flakes added to the glaze, or a dash of sriracha, can introduce a fantastic spicy kick that beautifully complements the sweetness. For those who prefer a less sticky finish, you could reduce the glaze slightly, making it more of a thin coating rather than a thick, caramelized layer. Don’t limit yourself to just wings, either! This phenomenal glaze works wonders on other cuts of chicken, such as drumsticks or even boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a more substantial main course. Imagine grilling these bad boys over an open flame for a smoky char that adds another layer of complexity – absolutely divine! You could also experiment with other tropical fruits. A touch of mango puree or even a hint of passion fruit could introduce different nuanced flavors to the sauce, making it uniquely yours. For a deeper, more robust sweetness, consider swapping a portion of the brown sugar for maple syrup or a rich, dark honey. The possibilities are truly endless, and each variation offers a new adventure for your taste buds. This is where your culinary creativity can truly shine, transforming a fantastic recipe into your signature dish.

So, there you have it. My sincere invitation to you is to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and give this wonderful Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Chicken Recipe a try. I promise you won’t regret it. The joy of cooking, for me, comes not just from the act itself, but from sharing the delicious results and seeing the smiles they bring. I am genuinely excited for you to experience the delightful aroma filling your kitchen and the incredible flavors that await.

Once you’ve embarked on this delicious journey, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the original recipe, or did you venture into some of the variations I suggested? Perhaps you came up with your own brilliant twist! Please don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, your successes, and even your culinary adventures in the comments section. Did your family devour them? Were they a hit at your latest gathering? Your feedback and shared experiences are what truly make this community vibrant and inspiring. Take photos of your beautiful creations and consider sharing them online – it’s always so rewarding to see how different people bring a recipe to life. Let’s create a chorus of deliciousness together! Happy cooking, my friends, and I eagerly await your delightful stories and culinary triumphs.