Spicy Orange Chicken Wings

Prepare yourself for a flavor-packed adventure with these Spicy Orange Chicken Wings! Crispy, tangy, and just the right amount of heat, these wings are perfect for a casual dinner, game day, or any time you’re craving something bold and delicious. The sweet orange glaze brings a burst of citrusy goodness, while the spicy kick adds that extra layer of excitement. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them on your own, these wings are sure to steal the spotlight!

Why You’ll Love Spicy Orange Chicken Wings

These wings are a true crowd-pleaser, and here’s why:

• Flavor Explosion: The sweet orange sauce pairs perfectly with the heat, creating a balanced and irresistible flavor combo.
• Crispy and Juicy: The wings come out crispy on the outside while staying tender and juicy on the inside.
• Quick and Easy: You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to make these wings. A little prep, some frying, and then glazing—so simple yet so tasty!
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the amount of chili paste or hot sauce to suit your spice tolerance, making them as fiery or mild as you like.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a game day snack, these wings fit right in. Everyone will be reaching for more!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these mouthwatering Spicy Orange Chicken Wings:

• Chicken Wings: The star of the show, crispy and tender once fried.
• Flour & Cornstarch: A light dusting creates the perfect crispy coating.
• Salt & Pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
• Vegetable Oil: For frying the wings to golden perfection.
• Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is best for a vibrant citrus flavor.
• Honey: A touch of sweetness to balance out the heat.
• Soy Sauce: Adds depth and savory umami to the glaze.
• Rice Vinegar: A splash of acidity for that extra zing.
• Sriracha or Chili Paste: For that fiery kick.
• Garlic & Ginger: These aromatic ingredients add a fragrant, savory base to the sauce.
• Green Onions & Sesame Seeds: For garnish and a pop of freshness and crunch.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to bring these wings to life? Follow these simple steps:

Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken wings dry with a paper towel to ensure they get nice and crispy when fried. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Coat the Wings

In a shallow bowl, mix the flour and cornstarch. Dredge the chicken wings in the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.

Fry the Wings

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the wings in batches for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the wings from the oil and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Make the Spicy Orange Glaze

While the wings are frying, it’s time to make the glaze! In a saucepan, combine the orange juice, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha or chili paste, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly.

Coat the Wings in Sauce

Once the glaze is ready, toss the crispy wings in the sauce until they are fully coated. Make sure each wing gets a generous amount of that sticky, spicy orange goodness!

Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the wings to a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra burst of flavor and color. Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet, spicy goodness!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown for a serving of Spicy Orange Chicken Wings:

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 350 calories
• Total Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 18g
• Vitamin A: 6%
• Vitamin C: 35%
• Calcium: 3%
• Iron: 8%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Spicy Orange Chicken Wings

These wings are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• With Rice: Serve them over steamed white or brown rice to soak up any leftover glaze.
• With a Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast to the spicy, sweet wings.
• On Their Own: Sometimes, wings are best enjoyed by themselves with just a few napkins at the ready!
• With Dipping Sauce: Serve with extra sriracha, ranch, or blue cheese for an added touch of indulgence.

Additional Tips

• Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: If you want to take the crispiness up a notch, fry the wings once, then let them rest for a few minutes before frying again. This double-frying technique ensures a crunchier texture.
• Adjust the Sweetness and Spice: Feel free to tweak the amount of honey and sriracha to suit your taste preferences.
• Storage: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to preserve their crispiness.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I bake these wings instead of frying them?

A1: Yes! For a healthier option, bake the wings at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and golden.

Q2: Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

A2: Absolutely! You can make the glaze in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat it before tossing with the wings.

Q3: How spicy are these wings?

A3: The level of spice depends on how much sriracha or chili paste you use. For a milder version, reduce the amount of heat, or omit it altogether for a sweeter taste.

Q4: Can I use boneless chicken instead of wings?

A4: Yes! Boneless chicken thighs or breast pieces will work just as well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q5: Can I use frozen chicken wings?

A5: Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the wings and pat them dry before frying for the crispiest result.

Q6: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A6: Use a gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch for dredging the chicken, and ensure the soy sauce is gluten-free (or swap it for tamari).

Q7: What can I serve these wings with?

A7: These wings go great with a variety of sides, like steamed rice, vegetable stir-fry, or even fries for a fun twist!

Q8: How do I store leftovers?

A8: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispiness.

Q9: Can I make the wings spicier?

A9: Yes, just add more sriracha or chili paste to the glaze to increase the heat.

Q10: Can I prepare these wings ahead of time?

A10: The wings are best served fresh, but you can prepare the glaze ahead of time and coat the wings when you’re ready to serve them.

Conclusion

Spicy Orange Chicken Wings are the perfect balance of crispy, tender chicken and a sweet and spicy glaze that will keep everyone coming back for more. They’re quick, easy, and totally customizable to your spice level. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a fun party appetizer, they’ll definitely be a hit! So go ahead—grab your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready for some seriously tasty wings that are sure to become a favorite!

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