Chicken wings have a universal appeal, and when combined with the ever-delicious cowboy candy and tropical pineapple sweetness, they transform into a dish that bursts with flavors. Pineapple cowboy candy chicken wings are perfect for those who prefer a little heat with their sweet!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1 cup cowboy candy (candied jalapeños)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Equipments
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Basting brush
How to Make Pineapple Cowboy Candy Chicken Wings – Step By Step
Step 1:
Prepare your workspace by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleaning. This initial setup ensures the wings cook evenly and don’t stick.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine pineapple juice, cowboy candy, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk these ingredients together until the honey is fully dissolved, creating a vibrant marinade full of sweet and spicy flavors.
Step 3:
Pat the chicken wings dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps the marinade adhere and crisps the wings during baking. Place the wings into the bowl with the marinade, ensuring each is well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or if time permits, in the fridge overnight for a more intense taste.
Step 4:
Arrange the marinated wings on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to suit your taste preference. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and cooked through.
Step 5:
Brush the wings with olive oil for that extra crispiness, then return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. This final touch gives them a beautiful glaze and texture.
How to Serve Pineapple Cowboy Candy Chicken Wings
Serve these wings hot off the oven with a side of cool ranch or blue cheese dip to balance out the heat. Pair with fresh celery or carrot sticks for a complete appetizer experience.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider grilling the wings on a barbecue for a smoky twist. Remember to adjust the spice level according to your preference; adding more pineapple juice can temper the heat from the cowboy candy.
Give Your Wings a Protein Punch
Transform these wings into a high-protein powerhouse by baking with a light coating of protein-rich nut powder. Almond or peanut flour adds not only a nutty flavor but also boosts the protein content significantly.
Make Them Keto-Friendly with a Low Carb Twist
For a low-carb version, swap honey for stevia or your favorite keto sweetener and serve with cauliflower rice instead of dips. This adjustment ensures you enjoy the wings without compromising on a low-carb lifestyle.
Storage Instructions
Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results, or enjoy them cold for a tasty snack!
FAQs
- How spicy are these wings? The heat level is moderate, thanks to the candied jalapeños, but you can adjust by varying the amount of cowboy candy you use.
- Can I freeze these wings? Yes, you can freeze the cooked wings for up to two months. Reheat in a preheated oven until they are hot and crispy.
- Can I use fresh jalapeños instead? Absolutely! Add a bit more sugar to compensate for the lack of sweetness in fresh jalapeños.
- What is cowboy candy? Cowboy candy refers to candied jalapeños, which are jalapeños pickled with sugar and spices, giving them a sweet, tangy, and spicy flavor.
- Are there vegan alternatives? You can replace chicken with cauliflower florets for a vegan version.
A Final Taste of Sweet and Spicy Delight
The harmonious blend of pineapple sweetness and spicy cowboy candy makes these chicken wings an unforgettable culinary adventure. This recipe is perfect for spicing up gatherings or simply enjoying a mid-week treat. We invite you to try this delicious dish, share your thoughts in the comments, and spread the joy with friends and family by sharing this recipe!
Pineapple Cowboy Candy Chicken Wings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- chicken wings
- pineapple juice
- cowboy candy
- soy sauce
- honey
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- olive oil
- salt and pepper
Instructions
Steps
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine pineapple juice, cowboy candy, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Pat chicken wings dry, toss in the marinade, and ensure they are well-coated. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
- Arrange on a baking sheet, season with salt and pepper, bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway.
- Brush with olive oil and bake for another 5 minutes for added crispiness.