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Spicy Orange Chicken Wings

Spicy Orange Chicken Wings are the ultimate game-day snack, combining bold heat with a sweet, citrusy kick in every juicy, flavorful bite. The contrast between the fiery spice and the bright, zesty orange glaze makes these wings utterly addictive. They’re not just wings; they’re a flavor-packed experience that keeps you reaching for more. The crispy, golden skin soaks up the sticky, spicy-sweet sauce, creating a mouthwatering balance of heat, tang, and umami that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Wings:

  • 2 lbs chicken wings (drums and flats separated)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika

For the Spicy Orange Sauce:

  • ½ cup fresh orange juice (from about 2 oranges)
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha or hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon grated ginger

Garnishes (Optional):

  • Sesame seeds
  • Sliced green onions
  • Extra orange zest

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings

  1. Preheat the Oven/Air Fryer:
    • Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
    • Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Season the Wings:
    • In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. Bake or Air Fry the Wings:
    • Oven Method: Arrange wings in a single layer on the baking sheet. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
    • Air Fryer Method: Arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

Step 2: Make the Spicy Orange Sauce

  1. Combine the Ingredients:
    • In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, sriracha, garlic, and ginger.
  2. Thicken the Sauce:
    • Once the mixture starts to simmer, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 3: Coat the Wings

  1. Toss the Wings in Sauce:
    • Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the spicy orange sauce over the wings and toss until evenly coated.
  2. Garnish and Serve:
    • Sprinkle with sesame seeds, sliced green onions, and extra orange zest for added flavor and presentation.

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