Crockpot Mandarin Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings

Hello, Pam Dishes fans! Today, we're diving into a family favorite that's as easy as it is delicious: Crockpot Mandarin Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings. This dump-and-go recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a hands-off meal that's bursting with flavor. The combination of tangy mandarin oranges, warm ginger, and a rich bourbon BBQ glaze creates a sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce that makes chicken wings irresistible. It's no wonder this dish is a crowd-pleaser!

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. You can throw everything into the Crockpot in just a few minutes, and let it work its magic while you tackle the rest of your day. The result is a tantalizing meal that's sure to become a staple in your household. So, let's get started!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Recipe

• Easy Prep: Dump and go, no cooking involved.
• Tender Chicken: Slow cooking makes chicken wings melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Bursting with Flavor: The perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for game days, parties, or family dinners.

Key Ingredients & Flavor Notes

This recipe combines a few key ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. The star of the show is, of course, the chicken wings. Slow cooking makes them incredibly tender and juicy. Mandarin oranges add a bright, citrusy note that balances the richness of the bourbon BBQ glaze. Ginger provides a warm, slightly spicy kick, while the bourbon BBQ glaze contributes a depth of flavor that's both sweet and savory. Finally, brown sugar enhances the caramelization of the glaze, giving the wings a beautiful sticky finish.

This recipe calls for a bourbon BBQ glaze, but if you prefer a non-alcoholic version, you can substitute it with a store-bought BBQ sauce and a splash of orange juice to mimic the bourbon's tang.

Chef’s Tips for Foolproof Slow Cooking

To ensure your Crockpot Mandarin Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Dry the Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels before adding them to the Crockpot. This helps the glaze stick better and promotes even cooking.
• Cook on LOW: For the best results, cook the wings on the LOW setting. This allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become incredibly tender.
• No Stirring: Resist the urge to stir the wings during cooking. The glaze will thicken and coat the wings beautifully if left undisturbed.
• Serve Immediately: These wings are best served fresh from the Crockpot. The glaze will thicken as it cools, so if you need to keep them warm, do so on the "WARM" setting.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs split chicken wingettes and drumettes
• 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
• 1/2 cup bourbon BBQ glaze
• 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Place the chicken wings in the Crockpot.
2. Pour the mandarin orange segments and grated ginger over the wings.
3. Drizzle the bourbon BBQ glaze over the top.
4. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the wings.
5. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours, or on HIGH for 4-5 hours.
6. Once done, give the wings a quick stir to coat them in the thickened glaze. Serve hot and enjoy!

What to Serve With It & Storage Tips

These Crockpot Mandarin Bourbon Glazed Chicken Wings are a fantastic standalone dish, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The creamy richness complements the sticky sweetness of the wings.
• Coleslaw: The cool, crunchy texture and tangy dressing balance the flavors of the wings.
• Corn on the Cob: A classic summer side that adds a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
• Bread Rolls: Perfect for soaking up any leftover glaze.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Keep in mind that the glaze may thicken upon cooling, so you might need to add a splash of water or orange juice when reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question?

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time. Add an extra hour to the cooking time if using frozen wings on the LOW setting, or add 30 minutes if using the HIGH setting. Make sure to pat them dry before adding them to the Crockpot.

Question?

Can I make this recipe without bourbon?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use bourbon, you can substitute it with a store-bought BBQ sauce and a splash of orange juice to mimic the bourbon's tang. You can also use a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative.

Question?

Can I cook this recipe in the Instant Pot?

While the Instant Pot is great for many recipes, the slow cooking process of the Crockpot is what gives these wings their tender texture and rich flavor. If you must use an Instant Pot, cook on the "MEAT" setting for 25 minutes at high pressure, then do a quick release. However, the results may vary slightly from the Crockpot version.