Sweet and Sour Chicken Wings are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining crispy, juicy chicken with a tangy and slightly spicy sauce that keeps you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving these at a party, family dinner, or just craving a flavorful snack, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and heat in every bite. Using simple pantry staples like ketchup, soy sauce, and a dash of Sriracha, these wings are easy to make yet incredibly satisfying. Plus, a sprinkle of white sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and nutty finish. Let’s dive into why this recipe works so well and how to make these irresistible wings at home.

Why This Recipe Works

This Sweet and Sour Chicken Wings recipe hits all the right notes for a delicious appetizer or main dish. The wings cook up tender and juicy thanks to a quick sear in a little oil, followed by a luscious sauce that clings to every piece. The balance of flavors is spot on: the ketchup provides a rich tomato base, soy sauce adds umami depth, sugar brings sweetness, and Sriracha delivers just enough heat to keep things exciting. Thickening the sauce with cornstarch ensures it coats the wings perfectly without being runny. Plus, the white sesame seeds not only add texture but also a beautiful finish that makes these wings look as good as they taste. This recipe is straightforward and uses minimal ingredients, making it approachable for cooks of all levels.

What Goes Into Sweet and Sour Chicken Wings

1 1/2 lbs (750g) chicken wings – drumettes and middle sections, trimmed for even cooking
1 tablespoon oil – for searing the wings (use your preferred neutral oil)
1 pinch salt – to season the wings
3 dashes ground black pepper – for a subtle kick
White sesame seeds – for garnish and added texture
1/4 cup ketchup – the sweet and tangy base of the sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce – adds savory depth
1 teaspoon Sriracha – brings a touch of heat (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup water – to loosen the sauce and help with thickening
1 teaspoon cornstarch – thickens the sauce to a perfect glaze
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar – balances the tangy flavors with sweetness

Essential Tools for Success

Large skillet or frying pan: For cooking the chicken wings evenly and creating that crispy exterior.
Small bowl: To mix the sauce ingredients thoroughly before adding to the pan.
Measuring spoons and cups: For precise ingredient amounts to achieve perfect flavor balance.
Tongs: To safely turn the wings while cooking without piercing the meat.
Whisk or fork: To blend the cornstarch slurry smoothly with the sauce.
Serving plate or platter: To display the finished wings, garnished with white sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.

Cooking Sweet and Sour Chicken Wings: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings

Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispy texture. Lightly season the wings with a pinch of salt and three dashes of ground black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Sear the Wings

Once the oil is hot, add the chicken wings in a single layer—do not overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until the wings turn golden brown and crispy. Remove the wings from the pan and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup ketchup, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon Sriracha, 1/4 cup water, and 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar until smooth. In a separate small cup, mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with a splash of water to create a slurry.

Step 4: Combine Sauce and Wings

Lower the heat to medium and pour the sauce mixture into the empty skillet. Allow it to heat until it starts simmering. Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. The sauce will begin to thicken.

Step 5: Coat the Wings

Return the seared wings to the skillet, tossing them gently in the sauce to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce cling to the wings.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the wings to a serving platter. Sprinkle generously with white sesame seeds for that final touch of crunch and visual appeal. These wings are great served hot as an appetizer or alongside rice for a full meal.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

Chicken parts: Use whole wings or just drumettes if preferred.
Ketchup: Substitute with tomato paste mixed with a little honey for a fresher tomato flavor.
Soy sauce: Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
Sriracha: Replace with chili garlic sauce or a mild hot sauce for a different heat profile.
Sugar: Swap with honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup for a natural sweetness.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

Patting the chicken wings dry before cooking is crucial for getting that crispy skin texture.
Adjust the amount of Sriracha according to your spice tolerance—start with less and add more if desired.
For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the wings in a bit of soy sauce and garlic powder for 30 minutes before cooking.
If you prefer oven-baking, bake wings at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, then toss in the sauce on the stovetop.
Serving these wings with Sticky Orange Chicken Bowls or Sticky Gochujang Honey Chicken Bowls makes for a deliciously varied spread.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Leftover Sweet and Sour Chicken Wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to keep the sauce from separating and to maintain that crispy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the wings soggy. For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you know exactly how to make these irresistible Sweet and Sour Chicken Wings, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for sharing. Whether it’s game day, a casual dinner, or just a craving for something delicious, these wings will satisfy your taste buds every time. Don’t forget the sesame seeds for that final flourish and enjoy every saucy bite!

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