Easy Hawaiian Wings Recipe – Sweet, Savory & Oven-Ready

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Introduction: A Taste of the Tropics in Every Bite

Hawaiian wings recipes are sweet, sticky, and packed with flavor. These wings give you a vacation vibe with every bite, and you don’t even need a grill.

I’ve been cooking these wings for over a decade, and every time, I hear the same thing: “These are better than takeout.” If you’ve ever been confused by complicated recipes or scared your chicken will turn out dry, this one’s for you.

You’ll get a clear ingredients list, easy swaps, and foolproof steps that even kids can follow. No fancy gear. No weird sauces. Just the best Hawaiian chicken wings straight from your oven, air fryer, or grill — your choice.

👉 Perfect for: Weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or impressing your family without breaking a sweat.

Ingredients You’ll Need (and Easy Swaps)

You’ll need basic pantry items and a few tropical touches.

Here’s what I use every time:

• 2 lbs chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
• ½ cup pineapple juice (fresh or canned)
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp ketchup (adds thickness)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp ginger powder (fresh works too)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (for thickening glaze)
• Optional: Sesame seeds, chopped green onions for topping

Swap Ideas:

• Pineapple juice → Try mango nectar or orange juice
• Soy sauce → Use tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free
• Ketchup → Tomato paste with a splash of vinegar and sugar

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How to Make Hawaiian Wings Recipe – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep the Wings

Pat the wings dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy, no sogginess here.

Optional: Toss them in a little baking powder (½ tsp) for extra crunch if baking.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ketchup, vinegar, and ginger.

Pour half of this over the wings in a bowl or bag. Let them marinate for 30 minutes or overnight if you’ve got the time.

Step 3: Cook the Wings

You’ve got three ways to cook:

• Oven: 400°F (200°C) for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Air Fryer: 380°F for 24–28 minutes, shaking the basket a few times.
• Grill: Medium heat for 20–25 minutes, turning often for even browning.

Step 4: Make the Glaze

While the wings are cooking, simmer the remaining marinade in a small pot. Add cornstarch slurry and stir until it thickens into a sticky glaze.

Step 5: Toss & Serve

Toss the hot wings in your thick glaze. Sprinkle with sesame seeds or green onions if you like.

Boom. Tropical wings that stick to your fingers and your memory.

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Sauce Talk: What Makes Hawaiian Wings So Addictive?

The sweet glaze is what sets these wings apart. It’s not just pineapple — it’s balance.

That tangy-sweet mix comes from fruit, sugar, and salty soy, and it sticks perfectly when simmered and thickened.

Craving heat? Add a few drops of hot sauce or crushed red pepper to your glaze. Want it even stickier? A spoonful of honey does the trick.

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What to Serve With Hawaiian Wings Recipe

Here are my go-to sides that pair like best friends with these wings:

• White rice or coconut rice – soaks up that glaze
• Grilled pineapple slices – double the tropical vibes
• Cabbage slaw – adds crunch and freshness
• Macaroni salad – classic Hawaiian plate lunch style

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Final Tips From a Home Chef

• Always pat your wings dry; it’s the #1 secret to crispy skin.
• Don’t rush the glaze. Simmer until it clings to a spoon.
• Taste your marinade. If it’s too tangy, add sugar. Too sweet? A splash of vinegar.
• Air fryer cooks faster, but the oven makes bigger batches.

Frequently Asked Questions