Slow Cooker Sweet and Spicy Wings

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Slow Cooker Sweet and Spicy Wings

These Slow Cooker Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings are sticky, juicy, and packed with flavor! They’re slow-cooked to tender perfection in a bold, sweet-and-spicy sauce, then broiled to get that crave-worthy caramelized finish. This easy recipe is perfect for game day, dinner, or any time you want to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ½ cup sweet chili sauce
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon dark sweet soy sauce
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely grated or minced
  • 1 kg chicken wings (drummettes, flats, or whole wings)
  • Chili sprinkle, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Sauce

In the bowl of your slow cooker, add:

  • Ketchup
  • Sweet chili sauce
  • Brown sugar
  • Honey
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Dark sweet soy sauce
  • Grated garlic

Whisk everything together until smooth and combined.

Step 2: Add the Chicken

Add the chicken wings to the sauce and stir to coat them well. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook:

  • On LOW for 6–8 hours, or
  • On HIGH for 3 hours, until the wings are tender and fully cooked.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Once cooked, preheat your oven’s broiler to high.

  1. Transfer the cooked wings to a baking tray lined with foil.
  2. Pour the leftover sauce from the slow cooker into a saucepan and place it over high heat.
  3. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Broil the Wings

  1. Brush the wings generously with the thickened sauce.
  2. Place them under the hot broiler for 3 minutes.
  3. Flip the wings, brush the other side with more sauce, and return to the oven.
  4. Broil for another 3 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and slightly crispy.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the wings to a serving platter and sprinkle with chili flakes or chili sprinkle for an added kick. Serve hot with extra sauce on the side, if desired.

Tips & Variations

  • Don’t skip the broiler—it’s the key to that irresistible sticky finish.
  • Add heat by mixing sriracha, crushed red pepper, or a dash of cayenne into the sauce.
  • Try with drumsticks for a heartier version.
  • Garnish options: chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or cilantro.

What to Serve with Sweet and Spicy Wings

Pair these flavorful wings with:

  • Steamed white rice or fried rice
  • Asian-style slaw
  • Crispy potato wedges
  • Fresh cucumber salad

Storing & Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until hot.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C), brushing with leftover glaze if available.

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