Swicy Strawberry Chicken Wings

Ingredients

• 2 lb chicken wings
• salt (to taste)
• black pepper (to taste)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1.5 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste)
• 1 cup strawberry preserves
• 1 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 3.5 garlic (minced (3-4 cloves))
• chili flakes (to taste)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 0.75 tsp cayenne pepper (for sauce; use 1/2 to 1 tsp)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp butter
• fresh strawberries (for garnish)
• ranch dip (for serving)

Steps

1. 1

   In a large bowl, season the chicken wings with salt, pepper, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Toss until the wings are evenly coated.

2. 2

   To cook in an Air Fryer: Preheat to 390°F (200°C). Arrange wings in a single layer and cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until very crispy.

3. 3

   To cook in an Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Place wings on a wire rack set over a baking tray (essential for crispiness). Bake for 40-45 minutes, or if no rack is used, flip the wings halfway through.

4. 4

   While the wings cook, prepare the sauce. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a pot over medium heat.

5. 5

   Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.

6. 6

   Add the strawberry preserves, ketchup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, chili flakes, smoked paprika, cayenne, and brown sugar to the pot.

7. 7

   Simmer the sauce for 8-10 minutes until it becomes thick, glossy, and slightly reduced.

8. 8

   Immediately toss the hot, crispy wings in the strawberry sauce until thoroughly coated.

9. 9

   Plate the wings and garnish with fresh strawberries. Serve immediately with ranch dip.

Notes

For maximum crispiness, ensure the wings are patted dry before seasoning. The baking powder is a key ingredient for achieving a fried-like texture in the air fryer or oven.

Nutrition per serving

• appetizer
• main
• chicken wings
• air fryer
• baked
• spicy
• sweet
• summer food