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Chicken wings transform into something extraordinary when coated with contrasting flavors that complement their natural taste. These wings strike the perfect balance between fruity sweetness from peach preserves and fiery heat from hot sauce, creating an irresistible combination that keeps you reaching for just one more. The crispy exterior gives way to juicy, tender meat that's infused with a complex blend of paprika, garlic, and umami notes from soy sauce.
I discovered this recipe when trying to please both my husband, who loves blazing hot wings, and my children, who prefer sweeter flavors. The first time I made these, the platter was completely empty within minutes, with everyone reaching for seconds and thirds despite their different preferences. Now they're requested for every game day and family gathering.
Ingredients for Peach Chicken Wings
- Chicken Wings: Mix of flats and drums for variety (fresh preferred for best crispiness)
- Peach Preserves: Choose preserves with fruit pieces for best texture and natural thickening
- Hot Sauce: Frank's RedHot recommended for balance (or substitute your favorite)
- Butter: Unsalted recommended for better seasoning control
- Paprika: Hungarian sweet paprika preferred for color and flavor
- Garlic: Both fresh minced and powder for layered flavor
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium recommended to balance saltiness
- Frying Oil: Neutral high-smoke point oil like vegetable or peanut
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How to Make Sweet & Spicy Peach Wings
- Step 1:
- Toss wings with paprika, garlic powder and salt; let sit 10 minutes
- Step 2:
- Heat oil to 350°F in deep fryer or heavy pot (test with bread cube)
- Step 3:
- Make sauce: melt butter, sauté garlic, add hot sauce, soy sauce and peach preserves
- Step 4:
- Simmer sauce 5 minutes until thickened to coat spoon
- Step 5:
- Fry wings in batches 12-15 minutes until crispy and 165°F internal temp
- Step 6:
- Toss hot wings with sauce in batches, reserving some for dipping
- Step 7:
- Garnish with green onions/sesame seeds; serve immediately
The Secret to Crispy Wings
Maintaining 350°F oil temperature is crucial - too hot burns the outside, too cool makes greasy wings. For air fryer method: 380°F for 10 minutes, flip, then 8-10 more minutes achieves similar crispiness.
Perfecting Your Sauce Consistency
Sauce should coat back of spoon - too thin? Simmer longer. Too thick? Add water/broth. Remember it thickens slightly as it cools. Peach preserves' natural pectin helps create ideal clingy texture.
My mother-in-law who dislikes both spicy food and fruit in savory dishes became a convert after trying these wings. She now makes them regularly for her bridge club!
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Air Fryer Option
Preheat air fryer to 380°F. Cook seasoned wings in single layer 10 minutes, flip, then 8-10 more minutes until crispy and 165°F internal temperature. Toss with warm sauce as with fried version.
These peach-glazed wings have become my signature party dish, bridging taste preferences with their perfect sweet-spicy balance. The empty platter at every gathering speaks volumes about their crowd-pleasing power.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen chicken wings?
- Yes, but make sure they're completely thawed and patted dry before seasoning and frying to prevent oil splatters and ensure proper cooking.
- → What type of hot sauce works best?
- Frank's RedHot or Cholula work great, but feel free to use your favorite. For milder wings, use less hot sauce or a milder variety.
- → Can I make these wings ahead of time?
- You can fry the wings ahead of time and keep them warm in a 200°F oven, but wait to toss them in the sauce until just before serving for maximum crispiness.
- → What sides go well with these wings?
- Classic pairings include celery sticks, carrot sticks, blue cheese or ranch dressing. They also go great with french fries, coleslaw, or corn on the cob.
- → Can I use other fruit preserves instead of peach?
- Absolutely! Apricot, mango, or pineapple preserves would all work wonderfully as substitutes while maintaining that sweet-spicy balance.