Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 Minutes
Total time: 30 Minutes
Yield: 2 Servings
Ingredients
- 1 Packet Chicken Wings
- 3 Tablespoons Butter
- 1 Tablespoon Chili Powder
- 1 Tablespoon Paprika
- 2 Tablespoon lemon Juice
- 1 Teaspoon Ginger
- 1 Teaspoon Garlic
- 1 Tablespoon Corn Starch
- Pinch Salt
- 1 Tablespoon Black Pepper
- 2-3 Green or Red Chili Pepper
- Season the chicken wings with salt and black pepper. Dust the chicken wings with flour, do not coat them we want a light coating on the wings
- Heat deep pan with oil and drop the chicken wings in once the oil is hot enough. Deep fry the wings until golden brown
- Melt butter in pan, add the chili powder, whole chili, paprika, lemon juice, ginger and garlic. Cook a few minutes so that everything is mixed through
- Add the chicken wings and toss in the chili pepper until evenly covered with the sauce
- Garnish with cilantro and whole red or green chili
Kenyan Pilipili Chicken Wings
These wings are marinated, oven-roasted or fried, then tossed in a bold and spicy "pilipili" (Swahili for chili) sauce made with fresh chilies, garlic, lemon, and herbs.
FAQs
What kind of chili should I use?
Scotch bonnets or bird’s eye chilies are authentic and very spicy. For milder heat, use red fresno or remove chili seeds.
Can I use a bottled hot sauce instead?
You can, but homemade pilipili delivers a fresher and more authentic East African flavor.
Are these grilled or fried traditionally?
They’re often deep-fried or grilled over open flame. Baking or air-frying works for a healthier twist.
How spicy is it?
Very! Adjust chili quantity based on your heat tolerance or add sugar/lemon to mellow the spice.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Cook wings and refrigerate. Reheat and toss in sauce before serving.
🧾 Printable Nutrition Card (per 4–5 wings)
Nutrient | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
Calories | ~350 kcal | Based on baked version with skin-on wings. |
Protein | ~28 g | High-protein snack or meal. |
Fat | ~24 g | Lower if baked; frying increases fat. |
Carbohydrates | ~4 g | Mostly from sauce ingredients. |
Sodium | ~420 mg | Adjust salt as needed. |
Vitamin C | ~25% DV | From chilies and lemon juice. |
Iron | ~10% DV | Chicken and spices contribute iron. |
Dietary Information Table
Diet Type | Status | Notes |
---|---|---|
Keto-Friendly | ✅ Yes | Low-carb if sauce has no added sugar. |
Gluten-Free | ✅ Yes | Ensure all condiments/spices are gluten-free. |
Dairy-Free | ✅ Yes | No dairy used in marinade or sauce. |
Nut-Free | ✅ Yes | Safe for those with nut allergies. |
Paleo | ✅ Yes | If natural oils are used and no sugar added. |
Soy-Free | ✅ Yes | No soy products included. |
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