Slow cooked marinated chicken wings on a serving plate garnished with herbs

Tender & Flavor-Packed Slow Cooked Marinated Chicken Wings

Tender & Flavor-Packed Slow Cooked Marinated Chicken Wings
easystar
4 hourtime

Nutritional value per serving

Calories250kcal

Carbs5gram

Fat15gram

Protein22gram

Ingredients

Quantity
  • Chicken wings (fresh, skin-on, tips removed for even cooking)1 kg
  • Soy sauce (for umami flavour, choose naturally brewed)3 tbsp
  • Honey (for sweetness and caramelization)2 tbsp
  • Garlic cloves (fresh, finely minced for pungency)3 pieces
  • Grated fresh ginger (adds warmth and zest)1 tbsp
  • Smoked paprika (gives a subtle smoky aroma)1 tsp
  • Black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)½ tsp
  • Salt (to taste, for seasoning)1 tsp
  • Olive oil (for marinade and preventing sticking)1 tbsp
  • Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish, optional)2 tbsp

Discover the art of slow cooking chicken wings marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and herbs that infuse the meat with rich, mouthwatering taste. This recipe is perfect for home cooks looking for a simple yet delicious way to prepare chicken wings that turn out tender and juicy every time. With straightforward steps and easy-to-find supermarket ingredients, you will enjoy a hassle-free cooking experience. The total estimated cost of ingredients is approximately $10 USD / €9 / £8 / ₹800. Each serving contains around 250 kcal, making it suitable for a balanced diet. This recipe is beginner-friendly, with a low complexity level, and requires about 10 minutes of preparation time plus 4 hours of slow cooking.

Preparation instructions

Prepare the marinade

1In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and olive oil. Stir well until honey is fully incorporated. This marinade infuses the wings with balanced sweet and savory notes.

Marinate the chicken wings

2Add the chicken wings to the marinade and toss until all pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor penetration.

Prepare for slow cooking

3After marinating, transfer the wings along with the marinade into the slow cooker. Spread the wings out evenly to ensure consistent cooking. This step allows the meat to cook gently in its flavorful juices.

Slow cook the wings

4Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 3 to 4 hours. Avoid removing the lid during cooking to maintain temperature and moisture. Cooking on low ensures the wings become tender and absorb the marinade thoroughly.

Check for doneness and food safety

5Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the wings. The safe minimum internal temperature for poultry is 75°C (165°F). Wings should be fully cooked, tender, and juices should run clear, indicating safety.

Serve and garnish

6Carefully remove the wings from the slow cooker using tongs to avoid burns. Arrange on a serving plate and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve warm for the best flavor experience.

Cooking Tips

1For a spicy kick, add 1 tsp of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.

2If you don’t have a slow cooker, bake the marinated wings in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) covered with foil for about 1.5 hours, then uncover and broil for 5-7 minutes to crisp the skin.

3Avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils and cutting boards for raw chicken and other ingredients.

4Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Equipment Needed

  • Slow cooker (or alternative oven-safe dish for baking)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Plastic wrap or airtight lid
  • Food thermometer
  • Tongs or serving utensils

Shopping List

  • [ ] Chicken wings (1 kg) — Look for fresh wings with pink, moist skin and no unpleasant odor.
  • [ ] Soy sauce (3 tbsp) — Choose naturally brewed for richer flavor.
  • [ ] Honey (2 tbsp) — Use pure honey for the best natural sweetness.
  • [ ] Garlic cloves (3 pieces) — Fresh garlic has the best aroma and flavor.
  • [ ] Fresh ginger (1 tbsp) — Buy firm, smooth root for zest.
  • [ ] Smoked paprika (1 tsp) — Adds excellent smoky aroma, available in spice aisle.
  • [ ] Black pepper (½ tsp) — Freshly ground is ideal.
  • [ ] Salt (1 tsp) — Regular table salt or sea salt.
  • [ ] Olive oil (1 tbsp) — Extra virgin recommended for taste.
  • [ ] Fresh parsley or cilantro (2 tbsp, optional) — Choose vibrant green, aromatic herbs.

Estimated cost: Approximately $10 USD total.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the wings in the refrigerator before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking and safety.

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

Use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 75°C (165°F). The juices should run clear, and the meat should not be pink inside.

Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, which can save time when you're ready to cook.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

You can bake the wings in the oven at 160°C (320°F), covered, for about 1.5 hours, then uncover and broil to crisp the skin.