Sweet & Sour Chicken Wings Marinade Recipe
If you’re looking for a wing recipe that’s quick, easy, and delivers that addictive balance of tangy and sweet, this is the one. These Sweet & Sour Chicken Wings are ideal for parties, game days, or even just a casual night in. The marinade is bright, bold, and only takes four ingredients—but the flavor payoff is massive.
Why I Love This Recipe
This marinade is one of those beautiful “dump and done” creations. You throw everything into a bowl, whisk it together, coat your wings, and let the magic happen. The combo of honey and lemon juice creates that signature sweet-and-tangy vibe, while the olive oil helps crisp everything up in the oven or air fryer. It’s light, fresh, and versatile enough to please even picky eaters.
Ingredients
- 15 chicken wings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 teaspoons honey
- 1.5 tablespoons lemon juice
- (Optional) Salt and pepper to taste
- (Optional) Garlic powder or chili flakes for extra zing
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Lemon Juice: You can swap this for lime juice or even orange juice for a different citrus profile.
- Honey: Agave or maple syrup can be used for a different kind of sweetness.
- Add-ons: Feel free to add soy sauce, sriracha, or grated garlic to customize the flavor.
Instructions
- Prep Your Wings
Pat your chicken wings dry with paper towels—this helps the skin get crispy when cooking. - Make the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, and lemon juice. Add a pinch of salt and pepper if desired. - Marinate
Place the wings in a large zip-top bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over them and toss to coat. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 24 hours for max flavor). - Cook Your Wings
You can either:- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air fry at 400°F for 18–22 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.
- Grill over medium heat, turning every few minutes until charred and cooked through.
- Serve & Enjoy!
Serve your wings hot with lemon wedges, a sprinkle of herbs, or extra dipping sauce on the side.
Tips for Success
- Dry your wings before marinating. Moisture on the skin can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Don’t skip the marinating time. Even 30 minutes makes a huge difference in flavor.
- Add extra sauce to brush on after cooking if you like them sticky and shiny.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Pair these tangy wings with other party favorites like:
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- This Beer Cheese Dip
- These Totchos
- This Walking Taco Bar
- And for drinks? Try This Blueberry Lemonade
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked wings in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or pop into the air fryer for 5–6 minutes at 375°F.
More Recipes You’ll Love
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Final Thoughts
These Sweet & Sour Wings prove that a few simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want to spice up your weeknight dinner, this recipe is a total winner. Try it out and let us know what you think in the comments!
👉 Follow along for more recipes at ChefManiac.com and never miss a flavor-packed bite!
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