Slow-Cooked Cranberry Hot Wings are a delicious twist on the classic hot wing, perfect for adding a sweet and tangy flavor to your game day spread or any casual gathering. These wings are slow-cooked to tender perfection, allowing the flavors of tart cranberries, spicy hot sauce, and a hint of sweetness to meld beautifully together. The result is a mouthwatering combination of flavors that’s both bold and balanced, with the slow cooking process ensuring the wings are juicy and fall-off-the-bone tender. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these cranberry hot wings are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a mix of sweet and spicy.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, split at the joints and tips removed
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the wings: Season the chicken wings with salt and pepper. If desired, you can sear the wings in a hot skillet with a little oil to brown them slightly before slow cooking. This step is optional but adds extra flavor.
- Make the sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cranberry sauce, hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, and smoked paprika until smooth and well combined.
- Slow cook the wings: Place the wings in the slow cooker. Pour the cranberry sauce mixture over the wings, ensuring they are evenly coated. Toss to coat the wings well.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the wings are tender and fully cooked through.
- Finish the wings: For extra crispy wings, you can transfer the cooked wings to a baking sheet and broil them in the oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and caramelized.
- Serve: Transfer the wings to a serving platter and drizzle with some of the sauce from the slow cooker. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Slow-Cooked Cranberry Hot Wings are a unique and flavorful twist on the classic wing, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and heat. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion where you want to impress with something a little different.
