Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings Recipe

If you’re looking for bold, addictive flavor and irresistible crispiness, these Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings are about to become your new obsession. They strike that perfect balance between tangy, sweet, spicy, and seriously sticky—all with succulent wings that come out perfectly crisp, thanks to the magic of the air fryer.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about what you’ll need for Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings. These simple, vibrant ingredients work together to pack every bite with sweet, tangy, savory goodness—and each one truly matters for perfect results!

• Chicken wings (1 kg/2 lbs): Go for whole wings or pre-cut drumettes and flats—just make sure they’re skin-on for that golden, crispy exterior.
• Oil (1 tbsp): Just enough to help the marinade cling beautifully and set the stage for that irresistible air-fried crunch.
• Soy sauce (3 tbsp): Brings deep umami and perfect saltiness—regular or light soy, depending on your favorite flavor.
• Brown sugar (3 tbsp): This is your secret to a glossy, caramelized, sticky finish—don’t skip it!
• Lemon or lime juice (2 tbsp): A pop of citrus lifts up every other flavor—use whichever you have handy.
• Fresh garlic (2 cloves): Crushed straight into the marinade for intense, aromatic depth.
• Fresh ginger (2 tsp, grated): Adds warmth and zing, balancing out all the sweet and savory notes.
• Red chilli (1 whole): Gives just enough heat to make things interesting—remove the seeds if you like it milder.
• Lemongrass stalk (1, roughly chopped): The star that infuses citrusy fragrance and a subtle zest.
• Salt, to taste: Brings it all together; don’t be shy to taste as you go.
• Peanuts (1 cup, roughly chopped): For a crunchy garnish with loads of character and lovely nuttiness.
• Extra red chilli (finely chopped, optional): For garnish and a fresh kick of color and heat.
• Spring onion/green onion (½ cup, finely chopped): Adds a touch of sharpness and a burst of color right before serving.

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings to suit your pantry or preferences. Try these fun swaps or custom twists to make it truly your own!

• Swap the Protein: Not in a chicken wings mood? Try this sticky marinade with boneless chicken thighs, drumsticks, or tofu for a plant-based twist.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce, and double-check all your labels for a perfectly celiac-friendly platter of wings.
• Up the Heat: Add another chilli, a pinch of chilli flakes, or even a splash of Sriracha for those who like things extra fiery.
• Nut-Free Option: Omit the peanuts or swap for roasted pumpkin seeds if you’re serving anyone with allergies—all the crunch with none of the worry.

How to Make Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Step 1: Blend the Marinade

Start by popping the oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, lemon (or lime) juice, garlic, ginger, red chilli, and roughly chopped lemongrass into a food processor or blender. Whizz everything until the marinade is totally smooth and glossy. Don’t forget to add a good pinch of salt, then taste and adjust—after all, this marinade is the backbone of your Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken wings in a roomy bowl and pour that delicious marinade all over. Toss everything around (clean hands work best here!) so every wing is well coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—overnight is even better for maximum flavor infusion.

Step 3: Air Fry Until Golden

When you’re ready to cook, set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). Arrange the marinated wings in a single layer in the basket—if you need to, work in batches so nothing’s crowded. Cook for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when the wings are caramelized, sticky, and cooked all the way through.

Step 4: Toast the Peanuts

While the air fryer works its magic, toss your peanuts in a hot pan (or quick-roast them in the oven) for 5 minutes, just until golden and fragrant. This extra step amplifies their flavor and gives your Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings that signature crunchy finish.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the wings are done, transfer them to a platter and scatter generously with toasted peanuts, extra chopped red chilli, and a tumble of fresh spring onion. Serve right away and watch them disappear!

How to Serve Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings

Garnishes

A generous tumble of roasted peanuts brings fabulous crunch, while a fresh sprinkle of chopped red chilli and green onions adds punchy flavor and truly eye-popping color. You can even add a few cilantro leaves or a drizzle of extra lime juice for that zesty, aromatic finish—simple, but absolutely irresistible!

Side Dishes

Serve Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings with a crisp cucumber salad, a bowl of fluffy jasmine rice, or a cooling Asian slaw. These wings love to be the star of a spread, so don’t be afraid to pile up veggies and fresh herbs on the side for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try heaping the wings on a big serving platter with layers of peanuts and greens, or skewer them for party-style finger food. For an extra-special touch, line your plate with banana leaves or lettuce cups—perfect for scooping up those sticky, flavorful drippings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay delicious for up to three days—if you don’t eat them all before then!

Freezing

If you want to get ahead on prep, freeze the marinated raw wings in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Cooked wings also freeze surprisingly well—wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months; just thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your wings in the air fryer at 180°C/350°F for 4–6 minutes. They’ll crisp right back up, and the glaze will turn glossy and gorgeous all over again. A quick zap in the oven works too—just avoid the microwave if you want to keep that heavenly crunch.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Give these Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings a try and see just how fast they disappear! Whether you’re making them for game day, dinner, or a weekend gathering, they promise to bring serious flavor excitement to your table. Go ahead—get a little sticky and enjoy every zesty, crunchy bite!

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