Few food combinations are as satisfying as a fresh, hot pizza alongside a basket of crispy wings. This dynamic duo has become a staple for game nights, casual get-togethers, and weeknight dinners across Canada. But not all pizza and wing combinations are created equal – the right pairing can elevate your meal from good to unforgettable.
At Pizza73, we've mastered both the art of pizza and the science of wings. In this guide, we'll share our expertise on creating the perfect pizza and wing combinations, explaining why certain flavors work well together and offering recommendations for every palate.
The Art of Flavor Pairing
Before diving into specific combinations, it's helpful to understand the principles behind successful food pairings. When it comes to pizza and wings, consider these key factors:
- Complementary flavors: Flavors that enhance each other without overwhelming
- Contrasting elements: Sweet with spicy, creamy with tangy
- Flavor intensity: Balancing bold with subtle
- Regional authenticity: Pairings that honor culinary traditions
With these principles in mind, let's explore some winning combinations:
Classic Combinations
1. Pepperoni Pizza + Hot Buffalo Wings
Why it works: This is perhaps the most iconic pairing in the pizza-and-wings universe. The spicy, meaty quality of pepperoni complements the vinegar-based heat of buffalo sauce. Both have bold flavors that stand up to each other without competition.
Pro tip: Add a blue cheese dip to cool the heat and add creamy contrast.
2. Cheese Pizza + Honey Garlic Wings
Why it works: The simplicity of a well-made cheese pizza creates the perfect backdrop for the sweet and savory complexity of honey garlic wings. The mild cheese allows the wing flavor to shine without competition.
Pro tip: Order extra sauce on the side for dipping your pizza crust.
3. Hawaiian Pizza + Sweet Chili Wings
Why it works: The sweet-savory combination of ham and pineapple on a Hawaiian pizza pairs beautifully with the sweet heat of Thai chili wings. The tropical notes in both create a harmonious flavor profile.
Pro tip: This pairing works especially well with a cold lager or a semi-sweet white wine.
For Heat Seekers
4. Spicy Italian Sausage Pizza + Hot Honey Wings
Why it works: For those who love heat, this combination delivers a one-two punch of spice balanced by subtle sweetness. The fennel in Italian sausage adds complexity that complements the sweet heat of hot honey wings.
Pro tip: Have plenty of cold beverages on hand – this pairing brings the heat!
5. Jalapeño and Bacon Pizza + Salt & Pepper Wings
Why it works: When your pizza already brings significant heat, pairing it with more subtly flavored wings creates balance. The simple seasoning of salt & pepper wings allows your palate to reset between bites of spicy pizza.
Pro tip: Add a side of ranch or blue cheese for cooling relief.
Gourmet Pairings
6. Mediterranean Vegetable Pizza + Lemon Pepper Wings
Why it works: The bright, herbaceous flavors of a Mediterranean pizza (think feta, olives, and roasted vegetables) pair wonderfully with the citrusy zing of lemon pepper wings. Both feature fresh, vibrant flavor profiles.
Pro tip: A crisp white wine or light beer enhances this sophisticated pairing.
7. BBQ Chicken Pizza + Smoky BBQ Wings
Why it works: This pairing creates a cohesive BBQ-themed meal with complementary smoky, sweet flavors. The different textures (tender pizza, crispy wings) prevent flavor fatigue.
Pro tip: Add a side of coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the rich BBQ flavors.
Unexpected Delights
8. Deluxe Vegetable Pizza + Hot Korean Wings
Why it works: The fresh, earthy flavors of vegetable toppings create a perfect canvas for the bold, gochujang-based spice of Korean wings. The contrast between the veggie-forward pizza and the intensely flavored wings creates an exciting dining experience.
Pro tip: Order the pizza with light cheese to let the vegetable flavors shine through.
9. Meat Lover's Pizza + Honey Mustard Wings
Why it works: The rich, savory intensity of a meat-loaded pizza finds its perfect counterpoint in the sweet-tangy profile of honey mustard wings. The wings provide a flavor break from the meaty richness.
Pro tip: This hearty combination pairs well with a robust red wine or a dark beer.
For Special Dietary Needs
10. Gluten-Free Margherita Pizza + Dry Rub Wings
Why it works: For those with gluten sensitivities, this pairing offers the classic pizza experience without compromise. The simple elegance of a margherita complements the complex spices in dry rub wings.
Pro tip: Confirm that the dry rub is gluten-free, as some commercial blends may contain gluten.
11. Plant-Based Italian Sausage Pizza + Cauliflower Wings
Why it works: Plant-based diners can enjoy the full pizza and wings experience with this creative pairing. The savory notes in plant-based sausage work well with the crispy-coated cauliflower "wings."
Pro tip: Buffalo or BBQ sauce works equally well on cauliflower wings.
Creating Your Own Combo Deals
At Pizza73, we offer a variety of combo deals that make it easy to create the perfect pizza and wing pairing without breaking the bank. Here are some popular options:
Game Day Special
Perfect for: Sports gatherings, large groups
Includes: Two large two-topping pizzas + 20 wings in two flavors
Suggested combination: Pepperoni & mushroom pizza + cheese pizza with hot buffalo and honey garlic wings
Family Night Combo
Perfect for: Weeknight family dinners
Includes: One large two-topping pizza + 10 wings + 2L drink
Suggested combination: Half pepperoni/half cheese pizza with sweet chili wings
Date Night Duo
Perfect for: Cozy evenings in
Includes: One medium specialty pizza + 10 wings + dessert
Suggested combination: Mediterranean pizza with lemon pepper wings
Dipping Sauce Strategy
Don't forget that dipping sauces can tie your pizza and wing experience together! Here are some suggestions:
- Ranch: The ultimate all-purpose dip that works with virtually any pizza or wing flavor
- Blue Cheese: Traditional with buffalo wings but also excellent with meat-heavy pizzas
- Garlic Dip: Enhances cheese pizza and complements most wing flavors
- Marinara: Perfect for dipping pizza crusts and a nice contrast to sweeter wing flavors
- BBQ Sauce: Creates continuity when enjoying BBQ-flavored items
Beverage Pairings
Complete your pizza and wings experience with the perfect beverage:
- Beer: A classic choice. Light lagers work with most combinations; IPAs stand up to spicy flavors
- Soft Drinks: Cola pairs well with BBQ flavors; lemon-lime sodas complement buffalo wings
- Wine: Yes, wine works! Try a medium-bodied red with meat pizzas or a crisp white with vegetable options
- Iced Tea: The slight bitterness balances sweet wing sauces
Ordering Tips
To ensure the best possible pizza and wings experience, keep these ordering tips in mind:
- Timing matters: For optimal freshness, Pizza73's online ordering system lets you schedule your delivery or pickup time
- Temperature considerations: Wings stay crispier in their own container, separate from pizza
- Portion planning: A good rule of thumb is 2-3 slices of pizza and 3-4 wings per adult
- Variety is key: For groups, consider ordering wings in multiple flavors
- Use the Pizza73 mobile app: Our responsive design makes customizing your perfect combination easy
Conclusion
The pizza and wings combo is more than just a convenient meal option – it's an opportunity to create a personalized dining experience that satisfies multiple cravings at once. By understanding flavor pairings and taking advantage of Pizza73's combo deals, you can elevate your next pizza night from ordinary to extraordinary.
Next time you're ordering through our mobile-friendly website or app, try one of these suggested combinations or create your own perfect pairing. And remember, there are no wrong answers in pizza and wings – only delicious possibilities!
What's your favorite pizza and wings combination? Share your go-to order in the comments below!
