This coke chicken wings recipe is easy to make and perfect for lovers of sweet, savory, and sticky wings. It’s a family favorite, truly a comfort food when served with freshly steamed jasmine rice, and the ideal way to use up leftover Coca-Cola!
Cola chicken is perfect to serve as an appetizer at parties and gatherings! You can pair them with a tasty dip like Thai sweet chili sauce, and serve them alongside other chicken recipes such as Thai chicken wings and sweet Thai chili wings.
Before we start cooking, let’s look at how this unique Coca-Cola recipe was created and why it’s so delicious. If you prefer to go straight to the instructions, you can do that below.
What are Coca-Cola chicken wings
Coca-Cola chicken wings are a popular dish where wings are braised in a sweet and savory sauce made primarily with Coca-Cola. This cooking method ensures the wings are tender and coated in a sticky, caramelized glaze, making them perfect for snacking
History of Coca-Cola wings
This Coke chicken wings recipe dates back to the early ’90s, when chicken wings cooked in Coke first became popular, especially in Asian communities. Back in the time, Cola chicken was a hit everywhere, from China to Taiwan, and loved by both kids and adults for its sticky, sweet flavor.
The combination of Coca-Cola with chicken might seem unusual, but it’s a perfect example of how creative cooking can lead to delicious results! I added some Thai flavors to the original recipe, it’s a fun twist with a bit of spice that can easily be adjusted to taste.
Coke chicken wings recipe
If you’re not sure about this recipe, just ask my hubby. He was skeptical at first, too, but then he couldn’t stop reaching for more – good thing I made a big batch!
You know those perfectly cooked chicken wings so tender they practically fall off the bone? That’s what we’re talking about here.
These Coke wings are the perfect mix of sweet and savory, and they’re insanely addictive. I could honestly eat them every day if it wasn’t for all the Coca-Cola!
We’ll cook chicken wings on the stove without frying. Feel free to get creative with the chicken parts – drumsticks or skin-on thighs also work wonders in this recipe.
And if you’re not a fan of the original Coca-Cola, no worries! Pepsi or any other cola brand will do the trick, but just steer clear of diet or zero versions because you need the sugar to get that gorgeous caramelized finish.
You can serve these Coca-Cola wings with rice for a simple dinner, but they’re also the ideal snack or appetizer for any day of the week.
Wrapping this up, I just have to say: these wings are hands down THE BEST. You’ve got to try them!
Ingredients
Ingredients can be sourced at Asian grocery stores and Asian markets.
The exact measurements are in the recipe card at the end of this post.
- Chicken – Cuts like chicken wings and drumsticks are great choices since they’re juicy and soak up flavors like a dream.
- Coca-Cola – Any brand of Coca-Cola will do, just remember to avoid diet or zero-calorie versions.
- Golden mountain sauce – A key ingredient in Thai cuisine, golden mountain enhances the caramelized chicken wings with its unique salty and umami profile.
- Light soy sauce – Light soy sauce adds a salty and savory flavor.
- Coriander root – Adds an earthy, fresh flavor to the braising liquid.
- White pepper
- Garlic
- Salt
- Thai chili flakes (optional) – Sprinkle in some red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat; adjust according to your spice preference.
How to make chicken wings with coke
-
Step 1: Place chicken wings, coriander root, garlic, and Coca-Cola in a pot or deep pan in a single layer.
-
Step 2: Set the stove to medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
-
Step 3: Once boiling, add salt, white pepper, golden mountain sauce, light soy sauce, and, for a spicy kick, some dried chili flakes.
-
Step 4: Cover the pot or pan, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let everything simmer for 30 minutes. The braising liquid will thicken and become sticky. After cooking, your sticky chicken wings with Coke are ready to enjoy hot and fresh right out of the pot!
Kitchenware
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Cutting board and a sharp knife
- Pot or deep skillet with lid
- Tongs or a spatula
Sticky chicken wings recipe with coke tips and tricks
- Don’t overcrowd your pot or pan: Lay the wings in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly.
- Avoid diet or zero-calorie sodas: The sugar in regular Coca-Cola is essential for achieving that beautiful caramelized texture and sweetness.
- Feel free to experiment: Add your choice of herbs, spices, or seasonings to this Coca-Cola chicken wings recipe.
- Let the wings simmer: Slow cooking helps in intensifying the flavors and ensures that the chicken is fall-off-the-bone tender and juicy.
- Clean the chicken: Properly wash the chicken wings. Feel free to cut the chicken wings at the joints to make it easier to eat them.
How to serve these braised wings
These braised Coke chicken wings can be served as a main dish alongside steamed rice or Thai sticky rice. Enhance their flavor with a garnish of chopped green onions, coriander, toasted sesame seeds, or your favorite herbs. Alternatively, they make a fantastic appetizer for your next party or family gathering.
Dipping sauce options
Complement the wings with one of my many dipping sauces. Great options include Thai dipping sauce for chicken, the spicy mookata sauce and Thai hot sauce, and Thai sweet chili sauce.
Optional side dishes
Combine your chicken with one of my Thai side dishes that complements their richness. In Isan, the Northeast region of Thailand, it’s common to pair chicken wings with a spicy Thai papaya salad, such as som tum Thai or tam sua.
How to store and reheat
Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: Preheat your oven (or air fryer) to 375°F (190°C) and bake the wings on a lined baking sheet until they’re heated through, or reheat on the stove top until warm.
Freezing: Place wings separately on a sheet, freeze, and then move to an airtight container and freeze up to 3 months. To reheat, just bake; no thawing needed.
Frequently asked questions
What does Coca-Cola chicken taste like?
Coca-Cola chicken is sweet and savory with a sticky glaze. The soda gives the chicken a rich, sweet flavor, while the spices make it savory. This combination makes the chicken juicy and very tasty.
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken for this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make these wings in advance?
Yes, you can prepare these wings in advance and reheat them later, but for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to cook them just before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free due to the inclusion of soy sauce, which contains wheat.
Authentic Thai chicken recipes
- Spicy fried chicken recipe without buttermilk
- Thai chicken satay with peanut sauce
- Deep fried chicken drumsticks
- Hat yai fried chicken
- Kai tod (Thai fried chicken wings)
Loved reading this coke chicken wings recipe? Please make my day by dropping a star rating and/or a comment below! Follow me on social media: Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
Coke Chicken Wings Recipe
Ingredients
- 1.3 lb chicken wings
- 3 1/4 cups Coca-Cola
- 2 coriander root
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp white pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp golden mountain sauce
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Place chicken wings, coriander root, garlic, and Coca-Cola in a pot or deep pan in a single layer.1.3 lb chicken wings, 3 1/4 cups Coca-Cola, 2 coriander root, 4 cloves garlic
- Set the stove to medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, add salt, white pepper, golden mountain sauce, light soy sauce, and, for a spicy kick, some dried chili flakes.1 tsp white pepper, 1 tsp salt, 2 tbsp golden mountain sauce, 2 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- Cover the pot or pan, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let everything simmer for 30 minutes. The braising liquid will thicken and become sticky. After cooking, your sticky chicken wings with Coke are ready to enjoy hot and fresh right out of the pot!
Notes
- Use the nutrition card in this recipe as a guideline.
- You can sub the wings with any other cut of chicken.
- Lay the wings in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly.
- Serve with a dipping sauce like a sweet chili sauce.
