These Habanero Tamarind Glazed Chicken Wings are crispy, sweet, tangy, and spicy, air-fried to perfection, and coated in a bold, sticky glaze—perfect for game night or any spicy food lover!
Prep Time10 minutesmins
Cook Time20 minutesmins
Total Time30 minutesmins
Servings 2
Course: Poutlry
Cuisine: Caribbean, Mexican
Diet: Gluten Free
Keyword: 30 Minute Meal, Air Fryer
Calories: 438kcal
Ingredients
For the Wings:
1poundchicken wings
1teaspoonkosher salt
½teaspoonground black pepper
½teaspoongarlic powder
½teaspoonsmoked paprika
1tablespoonolive oil
For the Tamarind Habanero Glaze
¼cuptamarind paste
1tablespoonhoney
1tablespoonbrown sugar
½teaspoonadobo seasoning
½tablespoonlow-sodium soy sauce
½tablespoonapple cider vinegar
1teaspoongingergrated
1clove ofgarlicminced
½smallhabanero peppersliced in half
1tablespoonwater or chicken broth (to thin, if needed)
Prep & Season the Wings: Pat the wings dry. Toss with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and olive oil.
Air-Fry the Wings: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Arrange wings in a single layer. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Make the Tamarind Habanero Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine tamarind paste, honey, brown sugar, adobo, soy sauce, vinegar, ginger, garlic, and habanero. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened. If needed, add 1 tablespoon water to adjust consistency.
Toss & Serve: Place hot wings in a large bowl. Pour warm glaze over wings and toss to coat. Serve garnished with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.
Video
Notes
Quick Tips: For extra crispy wings: Pat them completely dry before seasoning. Milder heat? Use a small amount of habanero or swap for Scotch bonnet or cayenne.Want a dipping sauce? Reserve a little glaze and mix with mayo or Greek yogurt for a creamy dip.Herb Substitutes
Scallions (Green Onions) – Thinly sliced for a fresh, mild onion flavor.
Parsley or Cilantro – Gives a fresh, slightly peppery taste.
Thai Basil or Regular Basil – Adds a sweet, slightly anise-like flavor.
Chives – Mild onion-like flavor without overpowering the dish.
Lime Zest – Brightens the flavors without adding herbs.
Toasted Sesame Seeds – Adds a nutty crunch.
Thinly Sliced Red Chili or Fresno Peppers – Boosts the heat and color.
Crushed Peanuts or Cashews – Gives a bit of crunch and depth.