Experience the Sweet Heat of Texas with Spiced Cranberry Wings

In the heart of Texas, where bold flavors are a way of life, there's a recipe that's taking center stage during the holiday season—Spiced Cranberry Wings. This dish blends the sweetness of cranberries with the fiery kick that Texas cuisine is famous for. Perfectly balancing sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, these wings are an unforgettable twist on a beloved appetizer. Whether you’re gearing up for a football game or a holiday feast, these wings are bound to be the hit of the party.

Photo byNick Davies

The Spirit of Texas in Every Bite
Texas is known for its fearless approach to flavor, and this recipe is no exception. Juicy chicken wings are coated in a mouthwatering cranberry sauce that’s spiced just right. The tartness of cranberries pairs beautifully with the smoky, spicy elements of chili powder, cayenne, and garlic—giving you a taste experience that dances on your palate. It’s a little bit sweet, a little bit spicy, and all kinds of delicious.

Recipe: Texas-Style Spiced Cranberry Wings

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken wings, cleaned and patted dry
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp butter
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the wings: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and lightly oil the surface. Arrange the chicken wings in a single layer, season them with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of chili powder, then bake for 35-40 minutes until crispy and golden.
2. Make the cranberry sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the cranberries, honey, orange juice, apple cider vinegar, chili powder, cayenne, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir and cook the mixture for about 10 minutes until the cranberries have burst and the sauce thickens. Adjust the spice level by adding more cayenne if desired.
3. Coat the wings: Once the wings are fully cooked, remove them from the oven. Toss the wings in the cranberry sauce until evenly coated.
4. Serve: Garnish the wings with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot. Pair them with extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping if you like a little extra kick!

The Bold Flavors of Texas What makes these Spiced Cranberry Wings truly stand out is their versatility. They’re the perfect combination of heat and sweet, making them ideal for all kinds of gatherings—from holiday parties to casual weekend barbecues. The tartness of the cranberries balances out the richness of the wings, while the Texas-style spices bring that signature southern heat.

In Texas, food is more than just nourishment—it's a way to bring people together. So, next time you’re hosting, impress your guests with these unique, flavorful wings that embody the spirit of Texas. With each bite, you’ll savor the perfect marriage of spicy and sweet, leaving everyone craving more.

Sources:

Sweet & Spicy Cranberry Chicken Wings - Foody Schmoody Blog

Spicy Cranberry Chicken Wings | The Bewitchin' Kitchen (thebewitchinkitchen.com)