A platter of chilli chicken wings is a sure fire way of catching people attention. Crispy, golden skin coated in a thick, glossy sauce that clings to every bite, delivering the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and savoury goodness. It’s the kind of dish that makes you forget about cutlery—wings are meant to be grabbed with both hands, enjoyed messily, and savoured to the very last bite.
What makes chilli chicken wings so irresistible? It’s all about that rich, spicy sauce brushed over them. The thick consistency means the wings aren’t just coated—they’re enveloped in a fiery, flavour-packed glaze that seeps into the crispy skin, making every mouthful a burst of heat and tang. Depending on the sauce, you can experience anything from a slow, smouldering warmth to an intense, lip-tingling heat that demands an ice-cold drink on the side.
The best thing about chilli chicken wings is their versatility. They’re perfect for game nights, casual gatherings, or even just as a satisfying meal when you’re craving something indulgent. But what should you serve alongside them to create a complete feast?
Perfect Pairings for Chilli Chicken Wings
- Cooling Dips – A bowl of cooling dip, like creamy garlic mayo, blue cheese dressing, or a simple sour cream and chive dip, balances out the heat of the wings. The contrast between spicy and creamy is pure perfection.
- Crispy Fries or Potato Wedges – Whether you prefer thin, crispy fries or chunky potato wedges, a side of golden-fried potatoes makes the meal even more indulgent. Drizzle them with a little garlic butter or sprinkle with paprika for extra flavour.
- Crunchy Coleslaw – A fresh, crunchy coleslaw brings a cooling element to your plate. The mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, spicy wings.
- Buttered Corn on the Cob – Sweet, juicy corn on the cob slathered in butter and a sprinkle of salt makes a fantastic pairing. The natural sweetness of the corn helps balance the heat of the chilli sauce.
- Steamed Rice or Fried Rice – If you want to turn your wings into a proper meal, a bowl of fluffy steamed rice or fragrant fried rice is an excellent choice. The rice soaks up any extra sauce, ensuring none of that spicy goodness goes to waste.
- Pickled Vegetables – A small side of pickled cucumbers, carrots, or radishes cuts through the richness and adds a lovely tangy contrast.
- Fresh Salad – A light, crisp salad with lettuce, cucumber, and a zingy citrus dressing is a great way to balance the bold flavours of the wings.
No matter how you serve them, chilli chicken wings are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. They bring the perfect mix of crunch, spice, and sticky satisfaction, making them a go-to dish for any occasion. So, grab a napkin (or a few), dig in, and enjoy every fiery, saucy bite!
Chilli Chicken Wings
Ingredients
For the Wings:
- 1 kg chicken wings split into drumettes and flats
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp cornflour corn starch
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Chilli Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp hot sauce adjust to taste
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp tomato ketchup
- 2 tsp chilli flakes adjust for spice level
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
Instructions
- Set your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with kitchen paper.1 kg chicken wings
- In a large bowl, toss them with salt, pepper, garlic powder and cornflour to evenly coat.1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp cornflour
- Drizzle with oil and mix well.1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Arrange the wings on the wire rack in a single layer. Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway, until the skin is golden and crisp.
- While the wings bake, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.3 tbsp unsalted butter
- Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.2 cloves garlic
- Stir in the hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, ketchup, chilli flakes and vinegar. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thick and glossy.3 tbsp hot sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp tomato ketchup, 2 tsp chilli flakes, 1 tsp rice vinegar
- Once the wings are done, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour over the sauce and toss until fully coated.
- Plate up the wings and serve immediately with your favourite sides. Enjoy!