Hawaiian Wings from Wingstop feature tender chicken wings tossed in a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and fresh pineapple chunks, offering a vibrant tropical flavor with a crispy, juicy bite.
Equipments
- Deep fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Baking sheet or tray
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving plate
- Small skillet (for toasting sesame seeds)
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Oil, for frying
- 1/4 cup fresh pineapple chunks
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Use fresh pineapple chunks to enhance the natural sweetness and texture of the glaze, as canned pineapples may alter the overall flavor profile. Measuring the soy sauce and brown sugar accurately is crucial to balance the sweet and savory notes in the pineapple glaze. Cornstarch mixed with water should be added gradually to achieve the perfect glaze consistency without becoming too thick or runny. Toasting sesame seeds in a small skillet brings out their nutty aroma, adding depth to the garnish. Your homemade Hawaiian Wings from Wingstop copycat recipe captures the signature tropical zest and crispy, juicy chicken wings fans love.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oil in deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Pat chicken wings dry and season with salt and black pepper.
- Fry chicken wings in batches until golden and crispy, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain wings on a baking sheet lined with paper towels.
- In a saucepan, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and ground ginger.
- Bring sauce mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to form a slurry.
- Stir cornstarch slurry into the sauce and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Toast sesame seeds in a small skillet over low heat until golden, about 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer crispy wings to a mixing bowl.
- Pour warm pineapple glaze over wings and toss to coat evenly.
- Arrange glazed wings on a serving plate.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and fresh pineapple chunks.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
This Hawaiian Wings from Wingstop copycat recipe lets you enjoy the iconic sweet and tangy pineapple glaze at home, with flexibility to adapt ingredients based on availability. If fresh pineapple chunks are not accessible, canned pineapple pieces work well and complement the glaze's flavor. Substitute low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option without sacrificing the umami taste in the marinade. When deep frying is unavailable, baking wings at 425degF (220degC) on a greased baking sheet for 40-45 minutes delivers a crispy texture with less oil. Toasting sesame seeds in a small skillet just before plating enhances their nuttiness, elevating your final presentation and taste.
Tips
Ensure your chicken wings are thoroughly dried before seasoning and frying to achieve maximum crispiness and prevent oil splatter. Maintain the deep fryer temperature at 350degF (175degC) to cook wings evenly and keep them juicy inside while crispy outside. When thickening the pineapple glaze, stir the cornstarch slurry continuously to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, glossy sauce. You'll want to toss the wings in the warm glaze right before serving to preserve the crispy texture beneath the flavorful coating.
Nutritions
Hawaiian Wings from Wingstop provide a protein-rich option with approximately 28 grams of protein per 6-ounce serving, crucial for muscle repair and satiety. The pineapple glaze combines natural sugars from pineapple juice and brown sugar, contributing carbohydrates and a moderate calorie count, while honey and rice vinegar add flavor without excessive fat. Soy sauce adds sodium, so your sodium intake should be monitored if you're sensitive to salt. Toasted sesame seeds contribute healthy fats and micronutrients like calcium and magnesium, enhancing the nutritional profile of these flavorful wings.
Storage
Store leftover Hawaiian Wings in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain their crispy texture and vibrant pineapple glaze. Reheat in an oven at 350degF (175degC) for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness without compromising the juiciness of your wings. Avoid microwaving as it can make the wings soggy and diminish the flavorful glaze.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the deep-frying step for baking the chicken wings at 400degF (200degC) for 40-45 minutes to reduce oil usage while maintaining crispiness. Use pineapple preserves instead of fresh pineapple juice and brown sugar to create a thicker, richer glaze that clings better to the wings. For an added kick, mix 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce during simmering, enhancing the tropical flavor with a subtle heat. Incorporate chopped green onions or cilantro as a fresh garnish alternative to sesame seeds for a vibrant, herbaceous contrast.
Allergies
Hawaiian Wings from Wingstop may trigger allergies related to soy due to the inclusion of soy sauce, and sesame seed allergies must be considered because of the toasted sesame seed garnish. The chicken wings are fried, so those with allergies to certain oils or gluten cross-contamination in frying methods should exercise caution. If you have known sensitivities to any of these components, it's best to verify ingredient sources or consult with a healthcare professional before enjoying this dish.
Why this recipe?
Hawaiian Wings from Wingstop feature a unique blend of sweet pineapple glaze and tangy spices, delivering a tropical flavor that sets them apart from typical wing options. The perfect balance of savory and fruity notes appeals to those seeking a refreshing alternative to traditional buffalo or BBQ wings. Cooking your own copycat version allows you to customize ingredients for a healthier or more intense flavor profile while enjoying restaurant-quality taste at home. Your taste buds will appreciate the vibrant taste and mouthwatering aroma that makes Hawaiian Wings a fan favorite.