Chicken wings are a beloved staple at gatherings and sports events, but have you ever tried them with a sweet twist? Combining chicken wings with condensed milk might sound unconventional, but the result is a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors that will leave your taste buds tingling. This recipe is perfect for adventurous cooks looking to try something new and exciting.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Wings:
- 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings, tips removed and wings separated at the joint
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Sweet Sauce:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust to taste for spiciness)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
- Season the Wings: In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings with salt, black pepper, paprika, and vegetable oil. Toss until the wings are evenly coated.
- Cook the Wings: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned wings and cook until they are golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, soy sauce, honey, chili sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
- Heat the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Thicken the Sauce: Add the lime juice and cornstarch mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Coat the Wings: Once the sauce has thickened, pour it over the cooked chicken wings in the skillet. Toss the wings gently to ensure they are well coated with the sauce.
- Simmer Together: Let the wings and sauce simmer together for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to cling to the wings and create a glossy, caramelized finish.
- Serve: Transfer the sweet and savory chicken wings to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions, if desired, and serve hot.
Tips for Perfect Sweet and Savory Chicken Wings
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili sauce and crushed red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce or omit these ingredients.
- Balance the Flavors: The sweetness of the condensed milk and honey pairs beautifully with the umami of soy sauce and the heat from the chili sauce. Taste the sauce before adding the cornstarch mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Crispy Wings: For extra crispy wings, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes before tossing them in the sauce.
- Marinade Option: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken wings in the sauce mixture for a few hours or overnight before cooking. This allows the wings to absorb more of the sweet and savory flavors.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these wings as an appetizer at your next party, or pair them with steamed rice and a side of sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
Combining chicken wings with condensed milk creates a uniquely delicious dish that will surprise and delight your guests. The sweet and savory flavors come together to make a rich, sticky glaze that perfectly coats the wings. This recipe is an excellent way to experiment with new flavors and elevate a classic favorite. Enjoy these wings at your next gathering and watch them disappear in no time!
