Description
These Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings are a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors with a fragrant hint of lemongrass. Air fried to crispy perfection, these wings are coated in a luscious soy and brown sugar marinade and topped with crunchy roasted peanuts and fresh spring onions for an irresistible appetizer or snack.
Ingredients
Chicken Wings
- 1 kg (2 lb) chicken wings
Marinade
- 1 tbsp oil
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice or lime juice
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red chili
- 1 stalk lemongrass, roughly chopped
- Salt to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup peanuts, roughly chopped
- 1 red chili, finely chopped (optional)
- ½ cup spring onion (green onion), finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a food processor or blender, combine oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, lemon or lime juice, garlic cloves, grated fresh ginger, red chili, and lemongrass. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined. Season with salt to taste.
- Marinate the Chicken Wings: Place the chicken wings into a large bowl. Pour the prepared marinade over the wings, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Cook the Wings: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). Arrange the marinated chicken wings in a single layer inside the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Air fry the wings for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even caramelization and thorough cooking. The wings should be golden brown and crispy when done.
- Prepare Toppings: While the wings cook, toast or roast the chopped peanuts in a dry pan over medium heat until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
- Serve: Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle the toasted peanuts, finely chopped red chili (if using), and chopped spring onions on top as garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy the combination of sticky, spicy, and crunchy textures.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken wings.
- If you prefer less heat, adjust the amount of chili used or omit the finely chopped chili topping.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- Ensure the wings are not overcrowded in the air fryer basket for optimal crispiness.
- Leftover wings can be reheated in the air fryer to maintain their crisp texture.
