
Sticky chicken wings glazed in a sweet and tangy blend of pineapple, brown sugar, soy, and fresh ginger always win smiles at my table. These Brown Sugar Pineapple Wings are perfect for busy nights yet crowd-pleasing enough for parties or game day snacks. The tropical touch of pineapple brings out a juicy tenderness in every bite.
I made these the first time to use up a can of pineapple juice and now my friends beg for the recipe whenever wings are on the menu. The sticky glaze has turned many into pineapple fans.
Ingredients
- Chicken wings: choose wings with plump skin and separate into flats and drumettes for even cooking
- Pineapple juice: opt for 100 percent juice for natural sweetness and tang
- Soy sauce: use low sodium for a less salty sauce
- Brown sugar: light brown gives the best caramel sticky finish
- Garlic: fresh cloves add depth and aromatic flavor
- Ginger: freshly grated for a clean warm kick
- Pineapple chunks: fresh or canned will work just pick ripe juicy pieces
- Cornstarch: ensures a glossy thickened sauce that coats each wing
- Water: use cold water to dissolve the cornstarch thoroughly
- Salt: adjust to taste for balance
- Black pepper: freshly ground for best flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep and Preheat:
- Get your oven hot at 200 degrees Celsius and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup
- Mix the Marinade:
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together pineapple juice soy sauce brown sugar minced garlic and fresh ginger until the sugar is fully dissolved
- Marinate the Wings:
- Toss separated wings in the marinade making sure every piece is coated well Cover the bowl and chill in the fridge for at least thirty minutes to soak up flavor
- Bake the Wings:
- Arrange wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet Sprinkle with salt and black pepper Bake for about twenty five to thirty minutes The wings should be cooked through and golden
- Make the Sauce:
- As wings bake whisk cornstarch with cold water to make a smooth slurry
- Simmer and Thicken the Glaze:
- Pour the leftover marinade into a saucepan over medium heat Add pineapple chunks Simmer gently then slowly stir in the cornstarch slurry Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and turns glossy
- Glaze and Serve:
- Transfer baked wings to a big bowl Pour over the hot pineapple glaze Toss generously until each wing is sticky and coated Serve hot and garnish if you like

The pineapple chunks make the sauce so special bursting with sweetness in every bite Once my nephew begged to eat the last spoonful of sauce straight from the bowl That makes me smile every time I make them
Storage Tips
Once cooled keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge Wings taste great reheated in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about ten minutes The glaze may thicken so add a splash of water to revive it
Ingredient Substitutions
No pineapple juice Use orange juice for a citrus twist No fresh ginger Use ground ginger but dial it back to avoid overpowering the sauce For a gluten free version swap in tamari for soy sauce
Serving Suggestions
Serve these wings with steamed white rice crispy slaw or roasted sweet potatoes They make a zesty centerpiece for a party platter or a casual family dinner
Cultural Context
Hawaiian and Asian flavors inspired this recipe blending sweet pineapple with savory soy and ginger The sticky glazed chicken wing is a favorite in global comfort food from sports bars to backyard cookouts
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make the wings extra crispy?
Arrange wings in a single layer and avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet. For best results, pat them dry before marinating and bake at high heat until the skin is golden and crisp.
- → Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, canned pineapple juice and chunks work well. Just ensure you use unsweetened juice to balance the flavors.
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for deeper flavor, refrigerate overnight to allow the wings to fully absorb the marinade.
- → Is it possible to make these wings ahead of time?
You can bake and sauce the wings ahead, then reheat gently in the oven before serving. Add extra sauce to keep them juicy.
- → What sides pair well with these wings?
Consider pairing with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad to balance the sweet and tangy flavors.