Prepare for a burst of tropical flavor with these incredibly easy-to-make Crock Pot Spicy Mango Jerk Chicken Wings. Perfect for any occasion, from game day gatherings to a cozy family dinner, these wings promise a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes that will have everyone reaching for more. The best part? You control the heat, ensuring they’re just right for your palate or your guests.
Indulge in Irresistible Crock Pot Spicy Mango Jerk Chicken Wings
After diving deep into countless slow cooker beef recipes and exploring the versatility of this beloved kitchen appliance, we decided it was time to give a classic favorite a slow-cooker makeover: chicken wings! And not just any wings, but a vibrant, flavor-packed rendition that marries the fiery kick of jerk seasoning with the sweet, succulent taste of mango.
The slow cooker truly shines during busy periods, especially as the holidays approach and the weather turns chilly. There’s an undeniable comfort in knowing that dinner is slowly simmering to perfection, ready precisely when you are. This method frees up valuable time, allowing you to enjoy more moments with loved ones, catch up on your favorite shows, or simply relax without being tethered to the kitchen. Forget about endless hours of prep and constant monitoring; with these mango jerk wings, your crock pot does most of the heavy lifting.
Why Choose Slow Cooker Chicken Wings?
The slow cooker isn’t just for stews and roasts; it’s a secret weapon for achieving incredibly tender, fall-off-the-bone chicken wings. The moist heat environment of a crock pot ensures that the chicken absorbs every nuance of the marinade, resulting in deeply flavorful meat. While traditionally, wings might be fried or baked, the slow cooker offers a hands-off approach that guarantees succulence, and a quick finish under the broiler adds that desirable crispy skin texture without all the fuss.
This method is particularly advantageous for meal prepping or entertaining. You can get the wings started in the morning, and by evening, they’re almost ready to serve. This alleviates much of the last-minute stress often associated with hosting, allowing you to focus on enjoying your company rather than being stuck in front of the stove.
The Perfect Blend: Mango and Jerk
The magic of this recipe lies in the harmonious interplay of two distinct flavor profiles: the tropical sweetness of mango and the bold, complex heat of Jamaican jerk seasoning. Jerk seasoning typically includes a blend of allspice, scotch bonnet peppers (or other chilies), thyme, garlic, and ginger, creating a robust, aromatic, and spicy foundation. When combined with the natural sweetness and tang of mango nectar, it transforms into an addictive glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the wings.
You have full control over the spice level. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for a less potent jerk seasoning or reduce the amount used. For those who crave an intense heat, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or even a few slices of fresh jalapeño to the crock pot. This adaptability ensures that these mango jerk wings can be tailored to suit every palate at your table.
Essential Ingredients for Flavorful Wings
- Chicken Wings & Drumettes: Approximately 3 pounds. Using a mix of flats and drumettes provides variety in texture and eating experience. Ensure they are thawed if frozen and patted dry for better seasoning adherence.
- Jerk Seasoning: About 2 teaspoons. The quality of your jerk seasoning makes a huge difference. Look for a reputable brand or even consider making your own for an authentic taste. This spice blend is key to the distinctive flavor profile. A good quality jerk seasoning will contain a balance of savory and pungent spices.
- Mango Nectar: 1 ½ cups. This provides the crucial sweet, fruity base that balances the jerk seasoning’s heat. Choose a good quality mango nectar for the best flavor.
- Light Brown Sugar: ¼ cup, firmly packed. Brown sugar adds depth and helps create a beautiful, sticky glaze, enhancing the caramelization during the broiling process. Firmly packed light brown sugar is ideal for this.
Recommended Kitchen Tools
To make this recipe as seamless as possible, here are a few recommended kitchen essentials:
- Slow Cooker: A reliable slow cooker is paramount. We highly recommend one with a digital timer that automatically switches to a “warm” setting once cooking is complete. This feature is a game-changer for busy households, preventing overcooking and ensuring your meal stays perfectly warm until you’re ready to serve. Explore various crockpot options here.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining the marinade ingredients.
- Tongs: Essential for turning the wings in the slow cooker and transferring them to the baking sheet.
- Cookie Sheets: For the final broiling step. Using two might be helpful to avoid overcrowding.
- Parchment Paper: Lines the cookie sheets for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Mango Jerk Wings
Creating these delightful wings is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a mouthwatering result:
- Prepare the Wings: Begin by placing your chicken wings and drumettes into the slow cooker. If using frozen wings, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the marinade adhere better and prevents a watery sauce.
- Craft the Marinade: In a separate bowl, whisk together the jerk seasoning, mango nectar, and firmly packed light brown sugar until well combined. This vibrant mixture is the heart of your wings’ flavor.
- Coat and Cook: Pour the prepared marinade generously over the chicken wings in the slow cooker. Using tongs, turn the wings a few times to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated in the delicious sauce. This step is crucial for even flavor distribution.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover your slow cooker and cook on high for 3 hours. During this cooking time, make sure to turn the wings at least twice. This ensures that all sides of the chicken are exposed to the heat and the flavorful sauce, promoting even cooking and maximum absorption of the jerk mango goodness. The wings will become incredibly tender.
- Crispy Finish (The Secret Weapon): For that irresistible crispy skin and sticky glaze, transfer the cooked wings from the slow cooker to a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Broil them in your oven until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and a crispy texture. This final step is key to elevating your slow-cooked wings from simply tender to truly exceptional, making them less messy and more enjoyable to eat.
Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Wings
- Don’t Skip the Broiler: While the slow cooker makes the wings tender, broiling is essential for crisp skin and a caramelized glaze. It’s the step that transforms them into truly restaurant-quality appetizers.
- Pat Dry the Wings: Before adding them to the slow cooker, ensure your chicken wings are as dry as possible. Excess moisture can dilute the sauce and prevent the flavors from concentrating.
- Customize Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less jerk seasoning and add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce at the end for individual servings. For extra spice, a finely minced Scotch Bonnet pepper (handle with gloves!) can be added to the marinade.
- Even Coating is Key: Make sure every wing is well-coated in the marinade before cooking. This ensures consistent flavor in every bite.
- Serve Immediately: While delicious at any temperature, these wings are best enjoyed fresh from the broiler while the skin is still crispy.
Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions
These Spicy Mango Jerk Chicken Wings are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways. They make a fantastic centerpiece for a game day spread or a casual get-together. Consider pairing them with:
- Cooling Sides: A creamy coleslaw, a fresh cucumber salad, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can help balance the heat.
- Rice Dishes: Fluffy white rice, coconut rice, or even a vibrant rice and bean pilaf would complement the tropical flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Sweet potato fries or roasted broccoli offer a healthy and delicious accompaniment.
- Dipping Sauces: While flavorful on their own, a side of ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or an extra mango chutney can add another layer of enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen chicken wings directly in the slow cooker?
It’s generally recommended to thaw frozen chicken wings before placing them in the slow cooker. Cooking frozen chicken can extend the cooking time significantly and sometimes result in unevenly cooked meat. Thawing them first also allows the marinade to penetrate the meat more effectively.
How can I make these wings even spicier?
To increase the heat, you have a few options: add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade, include finely minced fresh habanero or Scotch Bonnet peppers (use sparingly and with caution), or drizzle with your favorite hot sauce after cooking.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix the jerk seasoning, mango nectar, and brown sugar up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This can save you time on the day of cooking.
How long can cooked mango jerk wings be stored?
Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to help regain some crispiness.
What if I don’t have mango nectar?
While mango nectar provides the best authentic flavor, you can substitute it with a combination of mango juice and a little extra brown sugar, or even pureed fresh mango with a touch of water or orange juice for consistency. The flavor profile will shift slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for boneless chicken thighs or breasts. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as boneless chicken will cook faster. Broiling will still be beneficial for a nice glaze.
More Slow Cooker Appetizers & Chicken Meals
If you’re a fan of easy slow cooker recipes, especially for appetizers and chicken, be sure to explore more of our favorites:
- Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs: A crowd-pleasing classic with a spicy kick.
- Bourbon Little Smokies: Sweet and savory, perfect for any gathering.
- Discover all our Game Day Appetizers for your next party.
- Explore a variety of convenient Slow Cooker Chicken Meals.
We are passionate about making delicious recipes accessible to everyone. Check out our diverse collection of copycat recipes, irresistible dessert recipes, and an extensive range of Crock Pot Recipes designed for ease and flavor.
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Crock Pot Spicy Mango Jerk Wings
A delightful and easy recipe for delicious Crock Pot Spicy Mango Jerk Chicken Wings, perfect for any occasion.
10 minutes
3 hours
3 hours 10 minutes
16
215 kcal
Tammilee Tips
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Chicken wings & drumettes
- 2 Teaspoons jerk seasoning
- 1 ½ cups mango nectar
- ¼ cup Light Brown Sugar firmly packed
Instructions
- Place wings in the crock pot.
- Combine jerk seasoning, mango nectar and brown sugar in a bowl, then pour over the wings. Turn the wings to ensure they are fully coated.
- Cover and cook on high for 3 hours, turning the wings twice during cooking time for even flavor distribution.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the wings and place them on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Broil them until they are browned and crispy, which will enhance their texture and make them easier to handle.
Kitchen Tools
- Slow cooker
- Cookie Sheets
- Parchment Paper
Nutrition Facts
Calories from Fat 126
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Recipe originally published on December 10, 2014. Updated September 2020.