If there’s one dish that effortlessly bridges the gap between ordinary weeknights and special occasions, it’s spicy orange chicken wings. Imagine the tantalizing scent of citrus and spices wafting through your kitchen, instantly lifting your spirits and tempting your taste buds. After a long day, I found myself craving something bold and exciting, and that led me to whip up these finger-licking wings.
With just the right amount of heat and a sweet, tangy glaze, these wings are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—a perfect appetizer for game day or a delightful dinner centerpiece. What I love most is how simple they are to prepare; you’ll be amazed at how a few organic ingredients can transform ordinary chicken wings into a flavor-packed sensation. Ready to add a little zing to your dinner table? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why love Spicy Orange Chicken Wings?
Flavor Explosion: The fusion of spicy and sweet creates a taste sensation that will leave everyone wanting more.
Simple Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients, these wings come together effortlessly, making them a breeze to whip up for any occasion.
Crowd Favorite: Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a family night, these wings never fail to impress guests.
Versatile Dish: Serve them as appetizers, main dishes, or game-day snacks—the possibilities are endless!
Healthier Choice: By using organic chicken and natural sweeteners, you can indulge guilt-free.
Once you try these wings, you might also love my quick and easy Garlic Parmesan Wings for another delicious twist!
Spicy Orange Chicken Wings Ingredients
Get ready to transform your dinner table with these mouth-watering wings!
For the Chicken Wings
• 2 ½ lbs. organic chicken wings – Using organic chicken increases flavor and is a healthier choice for your family.
• 2 tsps On Everything All-Purpose Blend – This blend adds a savory depth to your wings; feel free to substitute with your favorite seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Optional, but it imparts a delightful smokiness to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon sea salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the wings.
For the Sauce
• 2 Tbsps filtered water – Helps to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter – Adds a rich creaminess that balances the flavors beautifully.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with a bold flavor.
• 1 cup freshly-squeezed orange juice – The star of this dish—provides the perfect tangy sweetness!
• ¼ cup raw honey – Sweetens the sauce naturally and complements the citrus perfectly.
• 3 Tbsps organic brown sugar – Adds depth and a hint of caramel-like sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon arrowroot starch – Helps thicken the sauce for a glossy finish.
• 2 Tbsps water – Used to dissolve the arrowroot starch for a smooth mixture.
• 1 teaspoon sriracha or hot sauce – Adds heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance!
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Enhances the spiciness; you can omit it for a milder flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger – Adds warmth and a hint of spice to the sauce.
• 1 navel orange, peels only – Infuses a fresh, zesty aroma into the dish.
With this lineup of ingredients, your spicy orange chicken wings are just a few steps away from becoming a flavorful reality!
How to Make Spicy Orange Chicken Wings
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Preheat your oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top—this allows the heat to circulate, ensuring your wings stay crispy!
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Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Now, sprinkle the On Everything All-Purpose Blend, smoked paprika, and sea salt over the wings, rubbing them in well for maximum flavor.
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Arrange the wings on the wire rack, making sure they are spaced about 1 inch apart. This helps each wing to cook evenly and turn crispy without steaming.
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Bake the wings for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You want them nice and crisp before adding the sauce for that perfect texture!
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Combine ingredients in a saucepan over medium-high heat: butter, minced garlic, freshly-squeezed orange juice, honey, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, ginger, hot sauce, 2 tablespoons water, and orange peels. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld those delightful flavors.
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Thicken the sauce by reducing the heat to low and adding the arrowroot starch mixture. Stir until the sauce starts to thicken, then remove it from heat. It should be sticky and luscious!
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Spoon the vibrant orange sauce over the crispy wings, ensuring they are well-coated. Return them to the oven and let them bake for another 5-6 minutes until the sauce clings beautifully.
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Serve the wings immediately! They’ll be dripping with flavor and aroma, perfect for sharing or devouring solo!
Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped herbs for a vibrant finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Orange Chicken Wings are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can season and refrigerate the chicken wings up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply for a more delicious outcome. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake the wings for the 20-25 minutes until crispy, reheat the sauce gently on the stove, and coat the wings before popping them back in the oven for 5-6 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy a fuss-free, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort, perfect for those busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Spicy Orange Chicken Wings?
Bring your dinner table to life with these delightful accompaniments that elevate your spicy orange chicken wings to a full meal experience.
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Crispy French Fries: Golden and crunchy, they soak up excess sauce while offering a satisfying contrast in texture. Perfect for dipping!
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Zesty Coleslaw: This fresh, crunchy side with a tangy dressing complements the heat of the wings, balancing flavors beautifully.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery garlic bread is great for sopping up sauce and adds a comforting, savory touch.
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Creamy Pasta Salad: Made with vibrant veggies and a light dressing, this dish adds a refreshing element to your meal.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Their sweetness enhances the citrus notes in the wings, while their tender texture provides delightful variety.
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Craft Beer: A hoppy IPA or a fruity wheat beer pairs well, cutting through the richness and complementing the spicy flavors.
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Strawberry Shortcake: For dessert, this sweet, airy treat offers a delightful finish, contrasting perfectly with the spicy wings!
Your family and friends will thank you for this well-rounded spread that’s sure to impress!
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Orange Chicken Wings
Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If possible, separate them from the sauce to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked wings in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your wings again, reheat them in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps restore their crispy texture.
Sauce Storage: If you have extra sauce, store it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze it for up to 3 months to use with other dishes or wings later.
Spicy Orange Chicken Wings Variations
Feel free to give your spicy orange chicken wings a personal twist and bring even more excitement to your table!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce in the marinade for an equally delicious flavor.
- Citrus Burst: Add a splash of lime juice along with the orange juice for an extra zing! It’s like a fiesta in your mouth with every bite!
- Asian-Inspired: Mix in sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds before serving for a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the sriracha or add chopped fresh jalapeños for a fiery punch that spice lovers will adore.
- Honey Mustard Fusion: Substitute some of the honey with your favorite mustard to create a sweet and tangy glaze that’s simply irresistible.
- Oven-Free Option: Cook the wings in an air fryer for a crispy texture without the oven! It’s an easy way to achieve that crunch.
- Smoky BBQ: Swirl in your favorite barbecue sauce with the orange glaze for an out-of-this-world BBQ-inspired flavor combo!
- Herbaceous Twist: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving for a fresh pop of color and flavor that brightens every bite.
Enjoy customizing these wings to suit your taste preferences and have fun experimenting with flavors!
Expert Tips for Spicy Orange Chicken Wings
• Marinate for Flavor: Consider marinating the wings in the seasoning for at least an hour—this intensifies the flavor and ensures every bite is delicious.
• Crispy Skin Trick: To achieve maximum crispiness, ensure wings are completely dry before seasoning. This helps them crisp up nicely in the oven.
• Adjust Heat Levels: If you prefer milder wings, reduce the amount of sriracha and red pepper flakes. Taste as you go, and customize to your liking!
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly-squeezed orange juice gives the best flavor. Avoid store-bought juices that may contain preservatives.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your wings in the oven; baking times can vary based on size. You want them golden and crisp, but not overcooked.
By following these helpful tips, you’ll create the most irresistible spicy orange chicken wings that your family will adore!
Spicy Orange Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken wings?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken wings, look for ones that are plump and free of dark spots or signs of freezer burn. Organic wings often provide a richer flavor and are a healthier option. Freshness is key, so if possible, purchase them from a reputable butcher or supplier.
Can I store leftover spicy orange chicken wings?
Yes! Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain their crispy texture, it’s best to separate them from the sauce before storing. Just reheat them in the oven for the best results!
How do I freeze spicy orange chicken wings?
Very! To freeze your cooked wings, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After they’re frozen, transfer the wings to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 3 months. For reheating, bake them at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
What can I do if the sauce is too thick?
If your sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in a little warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve your desired consistency. If you accidentally thinned it too much, re-heat it gently and whisk in a teaspoon of arrowroot starch mixed with a tablespoon of water to thicken it back up.
Are spicy orange chicken wings suitable for my child with allergies?
It’s vital to check each ingredient for potential allergens. For instance, if your child has a honey allergy, you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar. Additionally, ensure that the hot sauce and spices you use are allergy-safe. Always consult a medical professional for personalized advice!
How can I adjust the spice level?
The more the merrier with spices! To make these spicy orange chicken wings milder, simply reduce the amount of sriracha and red pepper flakes. Start with half the recommended amounts and taste the sauce before combining it with the wings, adjusting to your own spice preference.
Crispy Spicy Orange Chicken Wings That Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top.
- Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry. Sprinkle the On Everything All-Purpose Blend, smoked paprika, and sea salt over the wings, rubbing them in well.
- Arrange the wings on the wire rack, spaced about 1 inch apart.
- Bake the wings for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Combine butter, minced garlic, orange juice, honey, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, ginger, hot sauce, 2 tablespoons water, and orange peels in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add arrowroot starch mixture. Stir until sauce thickens, then remove from heat.
- Spoon the orange sauce over wings, return to oven, and bake for another 5-6 minutes.
- Serve immediately!