Rum and Coke Wings: A Game Day Appetizer and Super Bowl Recipe
Get ready for game day with these juicy and spicy Rum and Coke Wings! A unique and flavorful glaze made from dark rum, coke, and your favorite hot sauce. Perfect for a Super Bowl party or any game day gathering.
Are you looking for a fun and unique twist on traditional chicken wings? Look no further than these rum and coke wings! The sweet and tangy glaze will have you coming back for more.
INTRODUCTION
Hey foodie friends! Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for rum and coke wings! Chicken wings are a party favorite, and these rum and coke wings take them to the next level.
The glaze made with dark rum and coke is a unique combination that adds a delicious sweetness and tanginess that enhances the flavor of the chicken. These wings are versatile, they can be served as a main course or as an appetizer for any occasion.
Party Wings vs. Whole Wings
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the different types of chicken wings. A few things to know when it comes to chicken wings, there are two main types: party wings and whole wings. Party wings are the small, bite-sized sections of the wing that are commonly served as an appetizer.
Whole wings, on the other hand, include the drumette (the meaty part of the wing) and the wingette (the flatter part of the wing).
For this recipe, I recommend using whole wings, as the meatier drumette will hold up better to the high heat of the grill or oven. Plus, the larger surface area of the wingette will allow for more of the delicious glaze to stick! But of course, the party wings will work too!
Rum and Coke Wings: A Match Made in Heaven
Have you ever tried using dark rum in your cooking? If not, you’re in for a treat! The rich, caramel-like flavors of dark rum add depth and complexity to the glaze, making it the perfect complement to the spicy, savory flavors of the chicken wing recipe.
What really makes this recipe truly special is the use of Appleton Estate spiced rum. This rum, made by one of Jamaica’s oldest and most respected distilleries, has a unique blend of spices and flavors that make it perfect for cooking. If you can’t find it at your local liquor store, you can easily order it online.
Using Dark Rum in Cooking
Dark rum is an excellent ingredient to use in cooking because of its bold, distinctive flavor. Dark rum adds depth and complexity to any dish it’s added to, and it’s perfect for glazes like in this recipe. Dark rum is best used in savory dishes like marinades, sauces, and glazes, and it’s an excellent addition to desserts like cakes and pudding.
Spiced Rum vs Dark Rum
Dark rum is typically used in this recipe due to its full-bodied flavor and rich, molasses-like taste. However, in this particular recipe, I used spiced rum instead. While dark rum provides a bold and intense flavor to the glaze, spiced rum offers a lighter and more subtly spiced taste. The spices in the spiced rum complement the other ingredients and add a warm and slightly sweet note to the dish.
If you prefer a bolder flavor, I recommended using dark rum in this recipe. However, if you’re looking for a lighter, more nuanced flavor, spiced rum is a suitable alternative. Regardless of which rum you choose, make sure to select a high-quality brand that you enjoy the taste of, as it will play a big role in the overall flavor of the dish.
The History of Appleton Estate Spiced Rum
Appleton Estate Special Rum aka “the spiced” rum” is a popular choice for this recipe, but what sets it apart from other types of rum?
Appleton Estate has a rich history dating back to 1749, making it one of the oldest rum producers in the world.
Appleton spiced rum is a smooth and versatile rum, made with a blend of Jamaican rum and spices, giving it a unique and complex flavor profile. When it comes to cooking with rum, Appleton Estate Spiced Rum is a great choice for its depth of flavor.
It’s the perfect addition to these rum and coke wings, adding a warm and subtle spiciness to the dish.
NOTE: In 2020, the well-known Appleton Special Rum (spiced rum) underwent a rebranding and is now referred to as Kingston 62 Jamaica Gold Rum. According to various sources, the rum remains unchanged in terms of its recipe and taste. Although I have not yet tried the newly named Kingston 62, I still have a limited supply of the original spiced rum. I will provide an update once I have had the opportunity to purchase and sample Kingston 62.
Where to Buy Key Ingredients
You can find Appleton Estate Spiced Rum at most liquor stores or online retailers, and cola at your local grocery store. For the best results, we recommend using a high-quality dark rum like Appleton Estate Spiced Rum, and a well-known brand of cola such as Coca-Cola. The quality of your ingredients can make or break the recipe.
Update:In 2020, the well-known Appleton Special Rum (spiced rum) underwent a rebranding and is now referred to as Kingston 62 Jamaica Gold Rum. According to various sources, the rum remains unchanged in terms of its recipe and taste. Although I have not yet tried the newly named Kingston 62, I still have a limited supply of the original spiced rum. I will provide an update once I have had the opportunity to purchase and sample Kingston 62.
The Secrets To Making the Best Rum and Coke Wings
- Marinate the wings for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
- To ensure that the chicken wings are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, it’s important to bake them at the right temperature (400°F) for the right amount of time (25-30 minutes). Additionally, it’s important to baste the wings with the glaze towards the end of cooking, giving them just enough time to caramelize and become sticky, but not so much time that the glaze burns.
- Use high-quality dark rum, such as Appleton Estates Spiced rum.
- Bake the wings in the oven, rather than frying, for a healthier option.
- Brush the wings with additional glaze during cooking to enhance the flavor (this step is optional).
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the wings are fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the wings rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Make sure the glaze is thick enough. If the glaze is too thin, it will run off the wings and not stick properly. If the glaze is too thick, it may become too sticky and not caramelize properly. To ensure the perfect consistency, cook the glaze until it has thickened slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
- Use a broiler for the final few minutes of cooking to caramelize the glaze and add a crispy texture.
- Experiment with different types of coke, such as cherry or vanilla, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Thickening the Sauce with a Cornstarch Slurry
To ensure a thick and delicious glaze, we’ll be using a cornstarch slurry. Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to understand what a cornstarch slurry is and how it works, hoping to give you a bit more confidence in using it:
A cornstarch slurry is a mixture of cornstarch and a liquid, usually, water used to thicken sauces, gravies, and stews. To use a cornstarch slurry, follow these steps:
- In a small bowl, whisk together equal parts cornstarch and cold water until there are no lumps.
- Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the sauce, gravy, or stew while stirring continuously.
- Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and serve.
It is important to note that the cornstarch slurry should be added slowly and constantly stirred to prevent lumps from forming and to ensure an even consistency. Additionally, the sauce should be brought to a boil and simmered for a few minutes to allow the cornstarch to fully activate and thicken the sauce.
INGREDIENT BREAKDOWN
Meat
Whole chicken wings are the star of the recipe. I used whole wings, as they have more meat and are better for grilling or oven-baking. The party wings are a good option as well.
Seasonings
All-purpose seasoning – adds a well-rounded flavor to the chicken wings.
Garlic powder – adds a subtle garlicky flavor to the chicken wings.
Onion powder – adds a subtle onion flavor to the chicken wings.
Salt – enhances the flavor of the other seasonings and helps to bring out the natural flavor of the chicken wings.
Smoked paprika – adds a smoky flavor to the chicken wings.
Chilli powder – adds a spicy kick to the chicken wings and can be adjusted to taste.
Herbs & Spices
Black Papper – adds flavor and heat to the dish.
Green Seasoning – adds a fresh and bright flavor to the dish.
Alcohol
Dark Rum – used to create the unique and delicious glaze for the chicken wings. Dark rum is the preferred alcohol for the glaze, but spiced rum can be used as a substitute. In a pinch, whiskey or brandy can also be used, though they will alter the flavor. Use a high-quality brand for best results.
Liquids
Coca Cola – adds a sweet and fruity flavor to the glaze. Substitute with any other type of cola or even a caramel soda for a unique twist.
Water – helps to dissolve the cornstarch and create a smooth texture for the glaze.
Sweetener
Honey – adds a touch of sweetness to the glaze. Substitute with regular white sugar or even maple syrup if necessary.
Fats
Olive oil – used to coat the chicken wings before cooking, to prevent the chicken wings from sticking to the cooking surface and also helps to distribute the seasonings evenly.
Dairy
Butter – adds flavor and helps to create a smooth and creamy glaze.
Sauce
Hot sauce – adds a spicy kick to the glaze and can be adjusted to your preferred level of heat.
Other
Cornstarch – Helps to thicken the glaze.
Grab the Grocery List
Ingredients to Make this Rum and Coke Glazed Chicken Wing Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 chicken wings
- 2 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons green seasoning
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoon chili powder, or to taste.
Ingredients to Make this Rum and Coke Glaze
- ½ cup dark rum
- ¾ cup coke
- 2 tbsp honey
- ¼ cup hot sauce (Your favorite hot sauce)
- 2 oz butter, chopped up
- ½ tsp cornstarch
- ½ tsp water
PREPARATION
How to Make This Rum and Coke Wings
Preparing the Wings
- To prepare the chicken wings for marination, start by clearing up the wings and removing any excess feathers, and adding enough water to cover the wings in a large bowl.
- Add lemon juice to the water and let the wings soak for up to a minute.
- Thoroughly rinse the wings thoroughly with fresh water to eliminate any impurities.
- Repeat the rinsing and draining process at least twice to ensure all traces of lemon juice are gone.
- Once drained, place the wings in a bowl and let them sit for a moment to allow any remaining water to drain to the bottom and drain once more.
- Finally, use a clean paper towel to pat the wings dry, then discard the towel.
- Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
Marinating the Wings
- In a large bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, all-purpose seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, paprika, and salt.
- Massage the wings in the mixture until they are coated evenly.
- Cover the bowl with cling wrap and allow the wings to marinate in the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes or overnight for best results.
Baking the Wings
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Arrange the marinated wings on the baking sheet in a single layer and drizzle with a little more vegetable oil.
- Bake the wings for 40 to 45 minutes, basting every 20 minutes with the pan juices to keep them moist and cook evenly.
Making the Glaze
- In a medium saucepan, combine the coke, hot sauce, and honey.
- Cook over medium heat until it comes to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- The sauce will thicken as it simmers.
- Add the butter to the mixture and stir until it is fully melted and combined.
Thickening the Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix together the cornstarch and water to make a smooth paste.
- Slowly add the paste to the sauce and stir until it has thickened. Adding cornstarch will help the glaze stick to the wings better.
- Allow the glaze to simmer for 2 more minutes.
Glazing the Wings
- Remove the wings from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Dip the wings into the glaze (brush them on with a basting brush), making sure they are evenly coated. You may work in batches to ensure all the wings are evenly coated.
- Place the glazed wings back on the baking sheet.
- Return the glazed wings to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes or until the glaze is sticky and golden brown. Keep an eye on the wings as they cook to make sure the glaze does not burn.
- Brush the wings with additional glaze and broil at 500°F for the final 2-3 minutes of cooking to caramelize the glaze and add a crispy texture.
Need the full, printable recipe? No problem! Just check out the recipe card below for all the ingredients, measurements, and instructions you’ll need. And if you prefer to have a visual guide, we’ve got you covered with a recipe video that will walk you through the process step by step.
Rum and Coke Wings Recipe Video
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Caloric Breakdown of These Rum and Coke Glazed Wings
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 470 |
| Total Fat | 31g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 140mg |
| Sodium | 1200mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 19g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugars | 19g |
| Protein | 28g |
The nutritional information provided on kerriannskravingscom.bigscoots-staging.com for the recipes on the site is an estimate only and is offered as a courtesy. It is recommended to calculate the nutritional information for a recipe using the actual ingredients used. Please refer to our Nutritional Disclaimer for more information.
RECIPE FAQs
Yes, you can use light rum instead of dark rum in this recipe. However, keep in mind that light rum is a lighter-bodied rum with a milder flavor compared to dark rum. As a result, the flavor of the glaze may not be as robust and intense as it would be with dark rum. If you prefer a milder flavor, light rum can be a suitable substitute, but if you want a bolder flavor, it’s recommended to use dark or spiced rum.
Yes, you can use any dark rum for this recipe.
Sure, in a pinch you can use whiskey or brandy.
Yes, you can use diet coke instead of regular coke, but the flavor will be slightly different. Regular coke has a sweeter, more caramel-like flavor, so if you use diet coke, you may want to add a little extra brown sugar to compensate.
Yes, any type of cola can be used, but Coca-Cola has a distinct flavor that works well with the rum and other ingredients in the glaze.
It is recommended to marinate the wings for at least an hour, but for best results, marinate for 2-4 hours or overnight.
Both frying and grilling are suitable cooking methods for this dish. Frying will result in a much crispier texture, while grilling will give the wings a smoky flavor.
Substitutions & Additions
Sure, in a pinch you can use whiskey or brandy.
Yes, you can use maple syrup instead of brown sugar, but the flavor will be slightly different. Maple syrup has a slightly different sweetness and a unique flavor, so if you use it, you may want to adjust the amount to taste.
Sure, you can use white sugar or honey if you don’t have brown sugar.
Yes, you can use chicken drumettes instead of whole wings, but the cooking time may vary. Chicken drumettes are larger and meatier than wingettes, so they may take longer to cook. Keep an eye on them and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Yes, you can use your favorite hot sauce, but we recommend using a hot sauce with a medium to high heat level.
Yes, fish sauce or coconut aminos can be used as a substitute for soy sauce in this recipe, but keep in mind that they will change the flavor of the dish and add a distinct taste of their own. If using fish sauce, use a smaller amount as it is saltier than soy sauce. If using coconut aminos, you may want to adjust the sweetness of the glaze as it is sweeter than soy sauce.
Yes, tamari and Worcestershire sauce can be used as a substitute for soy sauce in this recipe. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a similar flavor, while Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. Keep in mind that using either of these substitutes will change the flavor of the dish slightly.
Variations & Twists
These rum and coke wings can be customized to your taste. Here are a few variations suggestions to try:
- Sweet and Spicy: Add more honey and hot sauce for a sweeter and spicier taste.
- For a spicier twist, add scotch bonnet pepper, cayenne pepper, or crushed pepper flakes to the glaze for a little extra heat.
- Serve the wings as a party appetizer with a selection of dipping sauces, such as blue cheese, ranch, or hot sauce.
- For a fun twist, experiment with different types of coke, such as cherry or vanilla, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Serve the wings as a main dish with a side of mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
- Sticky Wings: Double the glaze recipe and coat the wings in the glaze twice to make them sticky.
- Grilled Wings: Instead of baking the wings, grill them and coat them in the glaze before serving.
Food Pairings & Servings
Rum and coke wings pair well with a variety of side dishes, including:
- Parmesan Mac and Cheese: A creamy, cheesy pasta dish that complements the spicy and sweet flavors of the wings.
- French Fries: A crispy and salty side dish that adds a crunchy texture to the meal.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy side dish that helps balance out the heat of the wings.
- Baked Beans: A sweet and savory side dish that adds a hearty touch to the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: A healthy and tasty option that adds a touch of freshness to the meal.
- Cornbread: A warm and fluffy bread that pairs well with the spicy and sweet flavors of the wings.
Got Leftovers?
Make sure the leftovers have cooled down to room temperature before storing.
These wings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. For best results, store the glaze separately, and glaze the wings right before serving.
Leftovers are good for about 3-4 days, but after that, the risk of food poisoning starts to increase. If you don’t think you’ll be able to eat them within 4 days, it’s best to freeze them right away. Just make sure they’ve cooled down to room temperature before storing them in the freezer. Better safe than sorry!
If you want to freeze the wings, do not glaze them. Instead, place the wings in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags, or wrap them tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil or freezer wrap and store them for up to two months.
Need To Reheat?
To reheat the leftovers on the stovetop, heat a frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Place the leftovers in the saucepan and heat until they are fully heated through, about 5-7 minutes – stirring frequently.
To reheat the leftovers in the microwave, place the leftovers in a microwave-safe dish and cover them with a damp paper towel over the plate to add moisture and prevent the wings from drying out too much. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until the wings are fully heated through. The actual time varies depending on your microwave.
To reheat the leftovers in the air fryer, place the leftovers in the basket of the air fryer. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes or until the wings are fully heated through and crispy.
To reheat the leftovers in the oven, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftovers on a baking sheet and heat in the oven for 10-15 minutes or until the wings are fully heated through and crispy.
The best reheating method depends on personal preference. Reheating the chicken wings in the oven or air fryer will keep them crispy, while the stovetop or microwave methods will make them soft.
The Bottom Line
Upgrade your game day or dinner spread with these delicious Rum and Coke Glazed Chicken Wings. The unique combination of dark rum and coke creates a sweet and tangy glaze that perfectly complements the juicy and flavorful chicken wings, making it a one-of-a-kind recipe that is sure to impress your guests. Whether served as a main course or a tasty snack, these wings are the perfect addition to any gathering. Don’t settle for boring chicken wings – try this recipe and see for yourself why it’s a crowd-pleaser. Let us know your thoughts in the comments and don’t forget to tag us at @kerriannskravings in your re-creation on social media! xo
Kraving More?
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t stop here! Check out the rest of my appetizer kollection or explore the Recipe Index for even more delicious options. There are plenty of tempting choices to satisfy your kravings and inspire your next meal.
Rum and Coke Wings
Key Equipment/Products Use
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Non-stick baking pan (9×13 inch)
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Nutritional Disclaimer
The nutritional information provided on kerriannskravingscom.bigscoots-staging.com for the recipes on the site is an estimate only and is offered as a courtesy. It is recommended to calculate the nutritional information for a recipe using the actual ingredients used. Please refer to our Nutritional Disclaimer for more information.
These are seriously some of the best wings I’ve ever had! They were perfectly balanced with a little sweet and savory flavors and that rum and coke glaze was EVERYTHING!
This is the only way I’ll enjoy rum and coke. Everyone loved the sauce!
These wings were so tasty!! I’ve never tried anything like them before. The coke added sweetness and the rum added a boozy kick!
I decided to make these for dinner last week. The flavor was as good as they sound. Thanks for my new summer wing recipe!
I don’t know how you took my favorite beach drink and turned it into chicken wings but YOU DID THIS. These wings are amazing. I can’t wait to make them again next week for a family get together!
These rum and coke chicken wings were everything. They have the faint taste of a Cuba Libre, which is my favorite cocktail, but that savory flavor is also on point. I’ll be making these for every game day we host for sure!
Hey Martha, I’m so thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the rum and coke chicken wings and that they reminded you of your favorite cocktail, the Cuba Libre! The blend of savory and cocktail flavors really does make them a unique and delicious treat, doesn’t it? It’s great to know they’ve earned a spot on your game day menu. I’d love to hear if you make any tweaks to the recipe or come up with any fun serving suggestions. Thanks again for sharing your recipe experience with us. xx