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Sweet And Spicy Slow Cooker Chicken Wings

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  • #120119

This slow cooked chicken wing recipe is always a hit with its slightly sweet, slightly spicy flavors.


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  over 5 hrs
Rating: 5/5

5 reviews
1 comment

ingredients

3 pounds chicken wings
1 1/2 cup ketchup
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
2 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon ground mustard
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon black pepper

directions

Cut the chicken wings at the joints and discard the tips.

In a large bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, onion, and bell pepper. Stir to blend. Add the remaining ingredients and mix until combined. Add the wings to the bowl and toss well to combine.

Add the wings and sauce to a 4-quart crock pot. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 5-6 hours or until the chicken is cooked. Serve hot.


crock pot notes

Crock pots/slow cookers all heat differently. There is no standard among manufacturers. Cooking times are suggested guidelines based on our testing. Please adjust cooking times and temps to work with your brand and model of slow cooker.

recipe tips


For a smokier flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce.

If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a little apple cider vinegar or water.

Garnish the wings with sliced green onions or sesame seeds.

If you're watching your sugar intake, use a heat-safe brown sugar substitute.

Try adding a bit of garlic powder or minced garlic to the sauce.

If you prefer a stickier sauce, broil the wings for a few minutes after slow cooking.

Double the sauce recipe and reserve half to use as a dipping sauce.

common recipe questions


Do I need to separate the chicken wings?

We recommend it as the separate wing pieces will cook more evenly. Plus, they are easier to eat cut into sections.

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, you can use frozen wings, just thaw them first.

Is there a substitute for ketchup in the sauce?

If you prefer, you can use tomato sauce, chili sauce, or a combination of tomato paste and water for a slightly different flavor.

Can I adjust the sweetness and spiciness of the sauce?

Adjust the brown sugar to control sweetness and the chili powder and red pepper flakes to control spiciness.

Can I make this recipe in an oven instead of a crock pot?

Yes, you can bake the wings in the oven. Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees F for about 45-50 minutes, basting with the sauce occasionally.

What should I serve with these wings?

Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese.

How do I know when the chicken wings are fully cooked?

The wings are done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees and the meat is no longer pink at the bone.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Toss with the wings before cooking.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I use this sauce with other types of meat?

This sauce works well with other cuts of chicken, pork ribs, or meatballs.


nutrition data

539 calories, 15 grams fat, 85 grams carbohydrates, 21 grams protein per serving.
Show full nutritional data (including Weight Watcher's Points ®, cholesterol, sodium, vitamins, and diabetic exchanges)


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reviews & comments

  1. Guest Foodie REVIEW:

    Awesome recipe. Thanks

  2. Guest Foodie REVIEW:

    I took this recipe for our Christmas gathering. It was a big hit!!

  3. Toya

    Would it be ok to let the wings sit in the sauce for a day??? Marinade i guess...

    • You could let them sit in it overnight but I wouldn't do it for a full 24 hours as the texture of the chicken may start to break down

  4. Guest Foodie REVIEW:

    I have to say that I was a little hesitant about trying this dish with the base ingredient as ketchup. I am amazed at how well it turned out. I am currently living in an extended stay facility and I have only two stove top burners and 1 doesn't work, a porta

  5. Veronica REVIEW:

    I tired this recipe last week and my kids couldn't get enough. The have already asked for a repeat appearance. It is pretty tasty. I just tried this with ribs and it's is a keeper for sure. Thanks for sharing. Really great recipe. I am not sure what could make it any better...except for someone else cooking it for me :-)

  6. jo REVIEW:

    Made this for everyone at work...had no Red Pepper so put in 2 small Jalapenos....Oh my...everyone loved this!!!

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