Crispy Hawaiian Punch Chicken Wings

Name: Crispy Hawaiian Punch Chicken Wings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs Chicken Wings; 1 TBSP Baking Powder; 1 TBSP Your Favorite Chicken or BBQ Seasoning; 1 C Hawaiian Punch Fruit Juicy Red; 1/2 C Ketchup; 1/4 C Brown Sugar; 2 TBSP Honey; 1 TBSP Apple Cider Vinegar; 1 tsp Cornstarch mixed with 1 tsp Water

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the unique flavor combo. Marinating the wings in Hawaiian Punch gives them a sweet base that complements the savory elements perfectly. The addition of baking powder helps achieve that crispy skin we all crave. Plus, this recipe is adaptable. You can tweak the sauce to your liking or switch up the seasonings based on what you have on hand.

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A person holds a small plastic container filled with a dark red liquid above a large metal mixing bowl on a wooden surface. The person is wearing a dark shirt with Montana Knife Co. partially visible.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these wings:

2 lbs Chicken Wings
1 tablespoon Baking Powder
1 tablespoon Your Favorite Chicken or BBQ Seasoning
1 C Hawaiian Punch Fruit Juicy Red
½ C Ketchup
¼ C Brown Sugar
2 tablespoon Honey
1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
1 teaspoon Cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon Water

A gloved hand holds up a seasoned chicken wing over a wire rack with more seasoned wings below, ready for cooking.

How to Make It

First things first, preheat your smoker, grill, or oven to a solid 400°F. This is the sweet spot for getting those wings crispy without drying them out.

While that’s heating up, I like to pat the chicken wings completely dry. This is crucial because moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Once they’re dry, toss them with baking powder and your favorite seasoning. I usually go for a blend of garlic powder and pepper, but feel free to get creative here.

Seasoned chicken wing pieces are placed on a metal wire rack over a grill, ready to be cooked. The chicken is coated with a reddish-brown spice rub. The background shows the dark interior of the grill.

Now, it’s time to cook those wings. Place them on the grill or in the oven for about 35 to 45 minutes. Don’t forget to flip them halfway through for even cooking. You’re looking for that golden-brown crispy skin, and trust me, the aroma wafting through your yard will have everyone’s mouths watering.

While the wings are cooking, let’s whip up the sauce. Pour the Hawaiian Punch into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. I usually let it bubble away for about 8 to 10 minutes until it reduces a bit. Then, add in the ketchup, brown sugar, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Stir it all together and keep simmering until it gets that glossy look. This is where it really comes together.

A man wearing a black Montana Knife Co. shirt holds a metal bowl filled with raw, marinated meat coated in a red sauce, standing outdoors near a wooden fence.

When your wings are beautifully crispy and the sauce is ready, it’s time to toss them together. I like to do this in a large bowl, making sure every wing gets coated in that glossy goodness.

A man in a black Montana Knife t-shirt stands outdoors, holding a metal bowl filled with bright red sauced chicken wings, one of which is being lifted out, dripping sauce.

Tips and Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat. I’ve done this a few times, and it adds a nice kick that balances the sweetness.

Another fun twist is to marinate the wings in the Hawaiian Punch overnight. This really deepens the flavor, but if you’re short on time, even a quick 30-minute soak will do the trick.

A hand wearing a black glove holds a saucy, red chicken wing above a metal bowl filled with more glazed wings. The wings are coated in a shiny, thick sauce, and the background is out of focus.

Let’s not forget about the cooking method. If you’ve got an air fryer, you can achieve that crispy texture with even less oil. Just adjust the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes at 400°F, flipping halfway through.

Serving Ideas

These wings are best served hot and fresh off the grill. I usually go for a side of coleslaw or some crispy fries to round out the meal. If you’re feeling generous, set up a dipping station with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.

A plate of bright red grilled chicken wings sits on a blue and white patterned dish next to a glass of red drink, set on a wooden counter in an outdoor kitchen with grills and a fence in the background.

If you’re hosting a party, consider serving these wings as part of a platter with other appetizers. They pair wonderfully with a cold beverage, whether that’s a chilled beer or a fruity mocktail.

Closing

So there you have it, my take on Crispy Hawaiian Punch Chicken Wings. This recipe is not just about the wings; it’s about the fun and memories you’ll create around the grill. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a special occasion, these wings are sure to be a hit. Give them a try next time you fire up the grill, and I promise you won’t regret it. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I store leftover Crispy Hawaiian Punch Chicken Wings?

You can store leftover chicken wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What is the best way to reheat Crispy Hawaiian Punch Chicken Wings?

Reheat the wings in the oven at 350F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use an air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the Hawaiian Punch with another fruit juice or soda for a different flavor. You can also use different seasonings based on your preference.

Can I make Crispy Hawaiian Punch Chicken Wings ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken wings and the sauce ahead of time. Just cook them fresh when you're ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.

What can I do to ensure the wings stay crispy?

Make sure to pat the wings dry before seasoning and baking. Using baking powder helps to achieve a crispy texture, so be sure to include it in your preparation.

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