Make Mouthwatering Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings at Home

Get ready to treat your taste buds to a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors with these mouthwatering Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings! Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these wings are coated in a sticky, irresistible teriyaki sauce that’s infused with the tropical sweetness of pineapple. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or craving a flavorful appetizer, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave your guests begging for more.

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The History and Appeal of Teriyaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce has a rich history rooted in Japanese cuisine. Originating as a cooking method that involves broiling or grilling meat or fish in a sweet soy-based sauce, teriyaki has evolved over the years to become a beloved condiment and marinade around the world. The combination of salty, sweet, and savory elements in teriyaki sauce creates a truly unique and captivating flavor profile that pairs exceptionally well with chicken wings.

Ingredients for Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings

To bring this delectable dish to life, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

For the Chicken Wings:

• 2 lbs chicken wings, split at joints (drummettes and flats)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pineapple Teriyaki Sauce:

• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water (for thickening)
• Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)

The combination of juicy pineapple juice, savory soy sauce, and warm spices like ginger and garlic creates a delightful balance of flavors in the teriyaki sauce. The cornstarch slurry helps to thicken the sauce, giving it a sticky, glossy texture that clings perfectly to the crispy chicken wings.

Equipment Needed for Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings

To prepare these Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Nonstick Skillet: A large, high-quality nonstick skillet is crucial for browning the chicken wings and simmering them in the sauce.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple of mixing bowls to prepare the sauce and toss the wings with the sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement of the ingredients is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in the teriyaki sauce.

For an enhanced cooking experience, you might also consider using a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken wings are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and a basting brush to evenly coat the wings with the delicious teriyaki sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings

Prepare the Wings

Begin by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help them brown and crisp up beautifully in the pan. Season the wings generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

Brown the Wings

Heat the olive or vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches if needed, add the seasoned chicken wings to the hot oil and brown them on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This crucial step will create a delicious caramelized crust that will hold up to the sticky teriyaki sauce.

Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. The combination of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors will form the irresistible teriyaki sauce.

Simmer the Wings

Once the wings are browned, pour the teriyaki sauce mixture over them in the skillet. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer the wings for 30-35 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the wings are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Thicken the Sauce

In the final step, stir the cornstarch slurry into the skillet and continue cooking for 5-10 minutes, turning the wings frequently, until the sauce has reached a sticky, glossy consistency. The cornstarch will help the sauce cling beautifully to the wings, creating a mouthwatering, finger-licking experience.

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings to a serving platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired. Serve the wings hot, with any extra sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.

Flavor Variations and Tips

While the pineapple teriyaki flavor combination is truly divine, you can also explore alternative sauces and marinades to suit your taste preferences. Try a honey garlic or spicy mango variation for a unique twist. Pair these wings with complementary side dishes like fried rice, grilled pineapple, or a fresh, crunchy salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

For optimal storage and reheating, keep any leftover Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the wings in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutritional Information

A single serving of these Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings (approximately 4-5 wings) contains approximately 400 calories, 22g of fat, 30g of protein, and 14g of carbohydrates. While chicken wings can be a bit higher in fat and calories, they are also a great source of protein. To make the dish a bit healthier, you can consider using a leaner cut of chicken, such as chicken thighs, or reducing the amount of oil used for browning.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Huli Huli Chicken
• Grilled Mango Pineapple Chicken
• Sweet Hawaiian Crockpot Chicken
• Sheet Pan Pineapple Chicken

FAQs About Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings

Can I use chicken thighs instead of wings for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of wings for Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings. Thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicier due to their higher fat content. When using thighs, you can follow the same cooking method; however, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs typically take a bit longer to cook through than wings. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

What’s the best way to achieve crispy skin on my wings?

To achieve crispy skin on your Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings, start by patting the wings dry with paper towels before seasoning them. This helps remove excess moisture. You can also toss the wings in a little baking powder along with the seasoning, which helps to create a crispy texture during cooking. Ensure your cooking surface (oven, air fryer, or grill) is preheated and avoid overcrowding to allow for proper air circulation. For an extra crispy finish, broil the wings for a couple of minutes at the end of cooking.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce?

If you find the teriyaki sauce too sweet for your taste, you can adjust it by adding more soy sauce or incorporating a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice to balance the sweetness. You can also reduce the amount of sugar or honey in the sauce recipe. Conversely, if you prefer it sweeter, consider adding a bit more pineapple juice or brown sugar. Taste as you go to achieve the desired balance between sweet and savory.

What should I do if I have leftover wings?

If you have leftover Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can either use an oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or an air fryer for a few minutes until heated through. If you want to restore some of the sauce, consider brushing on additional teriyaki sauce while reheating to keep them moist and flavorful. You can also shred the leftover wings and use them in salads, wraps, or rice dishes for a creative twist!

Get ready to indulge in the sweet, savory, and utterly delicious Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Wings! This recipe is sure to become a new family favorite, perfect for game days, parties, or any occasion when you’re craving a flavor-packed, finger-licking good meal. Enjoy!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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