Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings

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Introduction

Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings are the perfect balance of bold flavors and crispy, caramelized goodness. These wings are infused with fragrant lemongrass, a kick of heat from fresh chili, and a sticky glaze that coats every bite in a savory-sweet perfection. The air fryer ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender inside, making them an irresistible dish for any occasion.

These wings have become a staple in my kitchen, especially for gatherings or game nights. The aroma of lemongrass and chili sizzling in the air fryer is mouthwatering, instantly setting the mood for something delicious. The glaze—made with honey, soy sauce, and a touch of lime—adds a beautiful depth of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.

Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings are perfect when you’re craving something crispy, sticky, and full of bold flavors. They’re fantastic on their own, but when paired with a cooling dip like garlic yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lime, they become absolutely addictive. If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive wing recipe, this is the one to make!

Perfect for:

  • Game nights and parties
  • Quick and flavorful appetizers
  • Healthier fried chicken alternatives
  • Weeknight meals with an exotic twist
  • Anyone who loves sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthier Alternative – Air-fried wings are crispy with less oil than deep-frying.
  • Bold, Southeast Asian Flavors – Lemongrass, chili, and garlic infuse each bite with a delicious aromatic kick.
  • Quick and Easy – Minimal prep and under 30 minutes of cooking time.
  • Sticky, Spicy, and Sweet – A perfect balance of heat, tanginess, and caramelized goodness.
  • No Complicated Ingredients – Everything can be found in most grocery stores.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 320-350 kcal
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 28g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Wings:

  • 1 ½ lbs (700g) chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (e.g., avocado or sunflower oil)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Sauce:

  • 2 stalks lemongrass, finely minced (white part only)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small red chili, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
  • 1 teaspoon lime juice
  • ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For Garnishing (Optional):

  • Chopped cilantro
  • Sliced red chili
  • Toasted sesame seeds

Ingredient Highlights

  • Chicken Wings – Crispy and juicy, wings soak up the bold flavors beautifully.
  • Lemongrass – A citrusy, aromatic ingredient that defines the dish’s Southeast Asian essence.
  • Honey – Adds sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize into a sticky glaze.
  • Soy Sauce & Fish Sauce – Essential for umami depth and savory balance.
  • Chili & Garlic – Provide spice and a rich, fragrant kick.
  • Lime Juice – Brightens the sauce and enhances all the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Wings:

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  2. Season the Wings – In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with cornstarch, oil, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Air Fry the Wings – Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Make the Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Sauce:

  1. Sauté the Aromatics – Heat sesame oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add lemongrass, garlic, and chili. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Prepare the Sauce – Stir in honey, soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, and white pepper. Simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.

Coat and Serve:

  1. Toss the Wings – Once the wings are crispy, toss them in the hot sauce until well-coated.
  2. Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, extra chili slices, and toasted sesame seeds for an extra burst of flavor.

How to Serve

  • Appetizer Platter – Serve with lime wedges for extra zing.
  • With Jasmine Rice – Turn it into a complete meal with a side of steamed rice.
  • Wrapped in Lettuce – Use butter lettuce leaves to create light and fresh wing wraps.
  • With a Cooling Dip – Pair with a yogurt-based dip or a mild coconut sauce for balance.

Additional Tips

  • Extra Crispy Wings – Pat the wings dry before seasoning, and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
  • Adjust Spice Level – Use more or less chili depending on your preference.
  • No Lemongrass? – Substitute with a teaspoon of lemon zest for a similar citrusy effect.
  • Sauce Thickness – Simmer longer for a thicker glaze or add a splash of water if it becomes too sticky.

Recipe Variations

  1. Extra Spicy Wings – Add sriracha or bird’s eye chili for more heat.
  2. Sweet and Tangy – Increase the honey and add a teaspoon of tamarind paste for extra tang.
  3. Ginger Twist – Add grated ginger for a sharper flavor.
  4. Coconut Infused – Stir in a tablespoon of coconut milk for a creamier sauce.
  5. Soy-Free Version – Swap soy sauce with coconut aminos.
  6. Grilled Version – Instead of air frying, grill the wings over medium heat for a smoky char.
  7. Sticky Mango Wings – Replace honey with pureed mango for a fruity twist.
  8. Herby Lemongrass Wings – Add finely chopped Thai basil for extra freshness.
  9. Kid-Friendly Version – Reduce chili and add a touch more honey for a milder glaze.
  10. Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free soy sauce and double-check the fish sauce label.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating – Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to regain crispiness.
  • Freezing – Freeze uncooked, seasoned wings for up to 2 months. Thaw and air fry when ready to eat.

Special Equipment

  • Air Fryer – An essential tool for achieving perfectly crispy chicken wings with minimal oil. It circulates hot air around the wings, creating a golden, crunchy texture without the need for deep frying.
  • Sharp Knife – A high-quality chef’s knife is crucial for finely mincing ingredients like lemongrass and chili, ensuring they blend well into the dish and enhance the overall flavor.
  • Tongs – A sturdy pair of tongs makes it easy to flip the wings in the air fryer for even cooking. They also help toss the wings in the sauce without making a mess, ensuring every piece is well coated.
  • Small Saucepan – Used to prepare the sticky sauce, allowing the ingredients to meld together while thickening into a rich, flavorful glaze that clings perfectly to the wings.
  • Mixing Bowls – Handy for tossing the wings with seasoning before cooking and for mixing ingredients for the sauce. Having a few different sizes makes preparation easier and more organized.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I bake these instead of air frying?
    Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  2. What if I don’t have an air fryer?
    Deep-Frying – Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C) and fry the wings in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 8–10 minutes. Drain on paper towels before tossing in the sauce. Pan-Frying – Use a large skillet with about ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat. Cook the wings for about 4–5 minutes per side until crispy and cooked through. Drain excess oil before coating them in the sauce. Baking – Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. For extra crunch, broil them for a few minutes at the end.
  3. How do I make these wings less spicy?
    Reduce or omit the chili and use sweet paprika instead for mild flavor.
  4. Can I use boneless chicken?
    Yes, boneless thighs work great and cook faster.
  5. How do I keep my wings crispy after tossing in sauce?
    Toss just before serving and avoid excess sauce.
  6. What can I substitute for fish sauce?
    Try soy sauce with a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a similar umami effect.
  7. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
    Yes, store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat before using.
  8. Can I double the recipe?
    Absolutely! Just cook in batches to prevent overcrowding the air fryer.
  9. What’s the best chili to use?
    Thai bird’s eye chili for high heat or red Fresno chili for mild heat.
  10. Can I use frozen wings?
    Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry before cooking for the best texture.

Conclusion

Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings are the ultimate combination of bold flavors and effortless cooking. The fragrant lemongrass infuses each bite with a citrusy freshness, while the sweet heat of the chili caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer, creating an irresistible balance of crispiness and juiciness.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility—perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a quick weeknight dinner, or even a game-day snack. Serve them with a zesty lime dip, a side of steamed rice, or fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor.

Once you try these wings, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to give them a try! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on social media—I’d love to see how you make them your own. Enjoy every sticky, spicy, and savory bite!

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