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Sea Island Wings (Sweet, Spicy, Smoky) pinterest

Sea Island Wings (Sweet, Spicy, Smoky)

These Sea Island Wings are sweet, spicy, smoky chicken appetizers perfect for grilling at your summer party or cookout. The unique combination of island-inspired flavors transforms an everyday appetizer into a conversation starter, creating an experience your guests will talk about long after the party ends.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American, Caribbean
Servings 6 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Saucepan
  • Mixing Bowls

Ingredients
  

For the Wings

  • 3 pounds chicken wings split at joints, tips removed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Sweet, Spicy, Smoky Sauce

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar can substitute coconut sugar for a less refined option
  • 1/4 cup honey agave nectar works for a vegan alternative
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger grated
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1-2 habanero peppers seeded and finely diced (jalapeños for milder heat)
  • 1 teaspoon liquid smoke optional for extra smokiness
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice adds authentic island flavor
  • 2 tablespoons butter or coconut oil for dairy-free

For Garnish

  • 2 green onions thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • fresh cilantro leaves
  • lime wedges

Instructions
 

  • Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Place wings in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss until evenly coated. Let them sit at room temperature for 20 minutes while you prepare the sauce.
  • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, honey, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, smoked paprika, diced peppers, liquid smoke, and pineapple juice. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
  • Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and whisk in butter until melted and incorporated.
  • Reserve 1/3 of the sauce for basting and serving. Pour the remaining sauce over the prepared wings and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight marination is recommended for best flavor.
  • Preheat your grill to medium heat (approximately 350°F). Create a two-zone fire with direct and indirect heat areas. Oil the grates thoroughly to prevent sticking.
  • Place the wings on the direct heat zone and grill for 5-7 minutes per side until grill marks appear.
  • Move them to the indirect heat zone, close the lid, and continue cooking for another 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally. Baste with the reserved sauce during the final 10 minutes of cooking.
  • Wings are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the skin is crispy.
  • Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, fresh cilantro leaves, and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

For a lighter option, use chicken drumsticks which contain 25% less fat than wings but maintain the same flavor profile.
Replace brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener to reduce carbs.
Air fryer alternative: preheat your air fryer to 380°F and cook for 20-22 minutes, turning halfway through.
Oven method: Bake on a wire rack over a baking sheet at 425°F for 45-50 minutes, turning halfway through. Brush with sauce during the final 10 minutes of cooking.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 24gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 620mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 15g
Keyword Chicken Wings, Grilled Wings, Spicy Wings, Sweet and Spicy, Smoky Wings, BBQ Wings
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