Name: Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 900 g chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats; 120 ml pineapple juice; 60 ml soy sauce; 55 g brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1 tsp freshly grated ginger; 60 ml pineapple chunks; 8 g cornstarch; 30 ml water; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

If you’re searching for a dish that brings the perfect balance of sweet, sticky, and tangy flavors with every bite, look no further than these Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings. This recipe is one of those treasures that makes even the most ordinary weeknight feel like a festive occasion. Juicy chicken wings silkily coated in a pineapple, brown sugar, and soy glaze come together in under an hour, making them a crowd-pleaser for parties and a simple treat for family dinners alike. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, these wings truly capture the taste of sunshine with each mouthwatering bite.

Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Part of the beauty of Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings is just how simple the ingredient list is, with every component playing a starring role in the dish’s final depth of flavor. From the sweet tang of pineapple to the savory punch of soy, these pantry staples create magic when combined.

Chicken Wings (900 g, separated into drumettes and flats): Go for fresh or thawed wings for the juiciest, most tender results.
Pineapple Juice (120 ml): Delivers the zesty sweetness that makes these wings shine—fresh or store-bought both work wonders.
Soy Sauce (60 ml): Adds irresistible umami, rounding out the sweetness with depth and saltiness.
Brown Sugar (55 g): Melts into a gorgeously sticky glaze, giving the wings their signature caramelized finish.
Garlic (2 cloves, finely minced): Brings a fragrant savoriness that pairs beautifully with the pineapple and brown sugar.
Freshly Grated Ginger (1 tsp): Offers gentle warmth and zing to balance all that sweetness.
Pineapple Chunks (60 ml): These little bursts add both texture and pops of tropical flavor to the final glaze.
Cornstarch (8 g): When combined with water, it thickens the sauce into a luscious, clingy glaze.
Water (30 ml): For mixing with the cornstarch, ensuring a smooth and glossy finish.
Salt, to taste: Just a pinch ensures all the flavors really pop.
Black Pepper, to taste: A hint of heat brings out the depth of every ingredient.

How to Make Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Set the stage for perfect wings by preheating your oven to 200°C and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple foundation means easy clean-up and prevents any sticky situation on your tray.

Step 2: Mix Up the Flavor-Packed Marinade

Grab your largest mixing bowl and whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger until you see the sugar dissolve entirely. This fragrant blend is the heart of Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings, infusing every single piece with sweet and savory notes.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken Wings

Add your prepped chicken wings to the marinade, tossing them around to ensure every nook and cranny is coated. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes in the fridge, but if you’ve got the time, marinate them overnight—the difference in flavor will wow you!

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

When your wings are fully marinated, arrange them in a single layer on your lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, and pop them into the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and the skin turns a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 5: Thicken the Pineapple Glaze

While the wings bake, make a simple cornstarch slurry by mixing the cornstarch and water until there are no lumps. This step ensures your glaze is silky smooth and perfectly thick for coating.

Step 6: Cook Down the Sauce

Pour any leftover marinade into a small saucepan and add those juicy pineapple chunks. Let it come to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then slowly whisk in your cornstarch slurry. Stir until the sauce blankets your spoon—thick, glossy, and full of flavor!

Step 7: Toss, Coat, and Serve

Fresh from the oven, transfer your wings to a serving bowl. Pour the warm, sticky pineapple glaze over the top and toss until every wing is glistening. Serve immediately while hot, with your favorite garnishes.

How to Serve Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings

Garnishes

A finishing sprinkle does magic—a few freshly chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or even a scatter of finely diced red chili will make these Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings irresistible to both eyes and palate. For extra zing, a light squeeze of fresh lime right before serving wakes up all the flavors.

Side Dishes

These wings play beautifully with so many sides! Try them with fluffy steamed rice to soak up all that tangy glaze, or crisp veggie sticks for a refreshing crunch. If you’re throwing a party, a simple mango salsa or roasted sweet potato wedges will turn your Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings into the star of the spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative with your presentation—pile the wings high on a pineapple-shaped platter, or serve individual portions in vibrant snack cones for easy mingling at gatherings. Placing the wings atop a bed of shredded lettuce or rainbow slaw not only looks stunning but adds a fresh bite that balances the sticky sweetness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftover Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They actually get even tastier as the flavors meld!

Freezing

These wings freeze well! Simply lay them out on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to a month—just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

For the crispiest finish, reheat your wings in a hot oven (about 180°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. You can also use an air fryer, which brings back the fabulous texture of the glaze. While microwaving is quickest, it may soften the skin a bit, but the sweetness and tang remain delicious.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken instead of wings?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs or even bite-sized chunks of breast work beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time slightly—smaller pieces will cook a little faster than wings.

Is there a substitute for fresh pineapple juice?

If fresh isn’t available, canned or bottled pineapple juice is totally fine for Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings. Choose 100% juice for the best flavor, and avoid sweetened varieties to keep the tangy balance.

How long should I marinate the wings?

A minimum of 30 minutes will do the trick, but marinating overnight in the refrigerator will seriously amplify the pineapple and brown sugar notes, making every bite more flavorful.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap the regular soy sauce for your favorite gluten-free variety or tamari. All the other ingredients in Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings are naturally gluten-free.

What’s the best way to get the sauce extra thick?

Make sure the cornstarch slurry is completely smooth before adding to the simmering marinade, and whisk continuously while it thickens. The sauce will continue to set as it cools, resulting in the ideal sticky glaze.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings are so much more than just a quick dinner or party snack—they’re a celebration of bold flavors and easy, joyful cooking. Whether you’re making them for friends, family, or simply to treat yourself, don’t be surprised when they disappear in minutes. Give them a try, and you might just discover your new favorite way to wing it!