Description
These Sticky Lemongrass Chilli Air Fryer Chicken Wings are packed with bold flavors from lemongrass, fresh chili, garlic, and ginger, balanced by a sweet and tangy marinade. Perfectly cooked in the air fryer to achieve a caramelized, crispy exterior without excess oil, these wings make an irresistible appetizer or snack for gatherings. Topped with toasted peanuts and fresh spring onions, they deliver a delicious crunchy finish.
Ingredients
Scale
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 1 tbsp oil, 3 tbsp soy sauce, 3 tbsp brown sugar, 2 tbsp lemon or lime juice, 2 garlic cloves, 2 tsp grated fresh ginger, 1 red chili, and 1 stalk of roughly chopped lemongrass. Blend the mixture until smooth and season with salt to taste.
- Marinate the Chicken Wings: Place 1 kg of chicken wings in a large bowl. Pour the blended marinade over the wings, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse deeply, preferably overnight for best results.
- Cook the Wings: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F). Arrange the marinated chicken wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. Air fry the wings for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to achieve an evenly caramelized and crispy texture.
- Prepare the Toppings: While the wings are air frying, toast or roast 1 cup of roughly chopped peanuts in a dry pan over medium heat until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Set aside.
- Serve: Once the wings are cooked and caramelized, transfer them to a serving plate. Top with the toasted peanuts, finely chopped 1 red chili (optional), and ½ cup finely chopped spring or green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant, sticky, and spicy flavors.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the wings overnight instead of 30 minutes.
- Adjust the chili quantity to control the heat level.
- Ensure the air fryer basket isn’t overcrowded for even cooking and crispiness.
- Substitute lime juice for lemon juice if preferred.
- Use skin-on wings for better crispiness and texture.
- Peanuts can be replaced with cashews or omitted for a nut-free version.
