Coca-Cola Chicken Wings
If you’re searching for a finger-licking good recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends, look no further than Coca-Cola Chicken Wings. These wings are sweet, sticky, and bursting with flavor, making them the perfect addition to any gathering. The unique combination of Coca-Cola, soy sauce, and garlic creates a mouthwatering glaze that coats the chicken wings beautifully. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply indulging in a weekend treat, these wings will have everyone coming back for more.
The Upside of Coca-Cola Chicken Wings
Coca-Cola Chicken Wings are not just about flavor; they also offer several benefits that make them a must-try recipe. Here are some reasons to love these wings:
- Quick and Easy: The preparation and cooking time is minimal, making it a great option for a weeknight meal.
- Flavor Explosion: The unique marinade infuses the chicken with a sweet and savory taste that is simply irresistible.
- Perfect for Sharing: These wings are perfect for gatherings, parties, or just a fun meal at home.
- Versatile: You can serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or even toss them in salads for a protein boost.
Your Shopping Guide
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating delicious Coca-Cola Chicken Wings. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 ½ pounds chicken wings
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 large lime (for zest and juice)
- 2 stalks scallions (for garnish)
- 16.9-ounce bottle of Coca-Cola
- ¼ cup soy sauce (look for low-sodium options if desired)
- 6 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2-inch piece ginger, sliced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (for thickening the sauce)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Before You Start: Equipment
Make sure you have the following equipment handy to make your cooking experience seamless:
- Large mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken wings.
- Sharp knife: To prepare your garlic and ginger.
- Oven-safe baking dish or sheet: For cooking the wings.
- Saucepan: For making the Coca-Cola sauce.
- Cooking brush: To glaze the wings with sauce.
- Tongs: For flipping the wings while cooking.
Coca-Cola Chicken Wings: From Prep to Plate
Now that you have everything you need, let’s dive into making these delicious Coca-Cola Chicken Wings.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings, salt, juice from the lime, and half of the Coca-Cola. Stir well to ensure all the wings are coated. Let the wings marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While the wings are marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help crisp up the wings while allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining Coca-Cola, soy sauce, smashed garlic, and sliced ginger. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until it reduces slightly.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Slowly add this to the saucepan while stirring continuously. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens, then remove it from heat.
Step 5: Bake the Wings
Arrange the marinated chicken wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Step 6: Glaze the Wings
After the wings have baked, remove them from the oven and brush them generously with the Coca-Cola sauce. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once the wings are beautifully glazed and caramelized, remove them from the oven. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy!
Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps
If you’re looking for alternatives to make these wings vegan or vegetarian, consider the following swaps:
- Use cauliflower or seitan instead of chicken wings for a plant-based option.
- Replace the soy sauce with a mushroom-based soy sauce for added umami flavor.
- Use vegetable broth in place of Coca-Cola for a non-sugar variant.
- Consider using maple syrup or agave nectar instead of Coca-Cola for a healthier sweetener.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you run into issues while making your Coca-Cola Chicken Wings, here are some tips to help:
- Wings are soggy: Ensure they are properly spaced on the baking sheet and that you bake them long enough to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
- Sauce is too thin: If the sauce doesn’t thicken as desired, add a bit more cornstarch mixed with water and simmer until it reaches the right consistency.
- Too sweet: Add a splash of vinegar or lime juice to balance the sweetness of the Coca-Cola.
- Burnt wings: If you notice browning too quickly, lower the oven temperature and extend the cooking time.
How to Store & Reheat
To keep your Coca-Cola Chicken Wings fresh for later, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wings in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but the oven will keep them crispy.
Ask the Chef
Can I use other types of soda for this recipe?
Yes! While Coca-Cola gives a unique flavor, you can experiment with other sodas like Dr. Pepper or root beer for a different twist.
What can I serve with these wings?
Coca-Cola Chicken Wings pair wonderfully with sides like coleslaw, potato wedges, or a fresh garden salad. They also make a great addition to a platter of appetizers.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it before glazing the wings.
Are these wings spicy?
This recipe is not spicy, but you can easily add some chili flakes or hot sauce to the marinade or sauce if you prefer a kick!
One Pan, More Ideas
If you love the idea of one-pan meals, consider trying these delicious recipes:
Let’s Eat
Now that you have mastered the art of making Coca-Cola Chicken Wings, it’s time to gather your loved ones, serve these delectable wings, and enjoy the smiles that follow. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors will leave everyone craving more. Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or just a casual night in, these wings are sure to steal the show. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for a delicious adventure in the kitchen!
Coca-Cola Chicken Wings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings, salt, juice from the lime, and half of the Coca-Cola. Stir well and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
- While the wings are marinating, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the remaining Coca-Cola, soy sauce, smashed garlic, and sliced ginger. Bring to a gentle boil and simmer for about 15 minutes.
- Mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Slowly add this to the saucepan while stirring. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Arrange the marinated chicken wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Brush the wings with the Coca-Cola sauce and bake for an additional 10 minutes to caramelize.
- Garnish with chopped scallions and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- For a different flavor, try using other sodas like Dr. Pepper or root beer.
- Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
