Slow Cooker Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings

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Slow Cooker Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings

These slow cooker sweet and spicy chicken wings are the perfect balance of sticky sweetness and gentle heat. The wings cook low and slow until incredibly tender, soaking up a rich sauce made with sweet chili sauce, honey, brown sugar, and garlic. To finish, the wings are brushed with a thickened glaze and quickly grilled to create a beautifully caramelized, glossy coating.

This recipe is ideal for game days, family dinners, or casual gatherings. Most of the work is done by the slow cooker, making it easy and stress-free, while the final grilling step adds irresistible texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Hands-off cooking with the slow cooker
  • Sweet, spicy, and savory flavor in every bite
  • Perfectly tender wings with a sticky glaze
  • Easy to double for parties or gatherings

Ingredients

  • 1 kg chicken wings (drummettes or whole wings, tips removed)
  • 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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce
    In the bowl of a slow cooker, add the ketchup, sweet chili sauce, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, dark sweet soy sauce, and grated garlic. Stir well until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is smooth.
  2. Add the chicken
    Place the chicken wings into the slow cooker and toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated in the sauce.
  3. Slow cook
    Cover with the lid and cook:

    • On low for 6–8 hours, or
    • On high for 3 hours
      The wings should be very tender and fully cooked.
  4. Preheat the grill
    Preheat your oven grill (broiler) to high. Line a baking tray with foil.
  5. Separate wings and sauce
    Carefully remove the wings from the slow cooker and place them on the prepared baking tray. Pour the remaining cooking liquid into a saucepan.
  6. Thicken the sauce
    Bring the sauce to a boil over high heat, then reduce slightly and simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and glossy. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
  7. Glaze and grill
    Brush the wings generously with the thickened sauce. Place them under the hot grill for about 3 minutes, until lightly caramelized. Turn the wings over, brush again with sauce, and grill for another 3 minutes.
  8. Serve
    Remove from the oven and serve hot. These wings are delicious on their own or paired with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or simple rice.

Tips for Best Results

  • For extra caramelization, keep a close eye on the wings under the grill to prevent burning.
  • If you prefer more heat, add a small amount of chili flakes or hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
  • Leftover sauce can be served on the side for dipping.

 

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