Honey pickled jalapeño wings

For the Wings

• 1.5–2 lbs party wings (about 12–14 wings)
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp sazon 

For the glaze

• 2 tbsp salted butter
• 1/4 cup La Costeña pickled jalapeños, sliced, adjust to your liking
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2–3 tbsp pickled jalapeño brine
• 1 tbsp soy sauce 

Pat the wings very dry, then toss with oil, baking powder, cornstarch, and seasonings until evenly coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Air fry at 385°F for 18–22 minutes. Flip the wings, then increase the heat to 400°F and cook another 10–15 minutes or until crispy.

For baked wings: Place on a wire rack and bake at 425°F for 45–50 minutes, flipping halfway through.

While the wings cook, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced pickled jalapeños and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in honey, jalapeño brine, and soy sauce. Simmer 2–3 minutes until glossy and slightly thickened.

Toss the crispy wings in just enough sauce to coat them, don’t drown them so they stay crispy. Spoon extra sauce over the top if needed. 

Serving Suggestions

Serve this smoked pavo al pastor sliced thin with warm tortillas, grilled pineapple, chopped onion, cilantro, and a spoonful of salsa. Leftovers make incredible tacos, tortas, or quesadillas the next day.

Pro Tip

Brushing extra glaze right after the turkey comes off the smoker adds shine and boosts that signature sweet-smoky al pastor flavor.

This show-stopping how to make pavo al pastor recipe proves that turkey doesn’t have to be boring. With La Costeña chipotles in adobo and classic Mexican ingredients, it becomes something truly special.

Explore more bold, authentic Mexican recipes at mexicorico.com and keep the flavor going.