As I bit into a freshly fried wing, the crisp texture shattered with each crunch, unleashing a delightful rush of savory goodness. These Chinese Fried Chicken Wings capture the heart of comfort food, bringing restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen. Marinated in a harmonious blend of soy sauce, garlic, and Shaoxing wine, their mouthwatering umami profile makes them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s game day, a casual dinner, or a cozy night with friends. Not only are they irresistibly crispy and juicy, but they also offer a gluten-free option if you choose the right flour. The best part? You can easily whip them up in either a deep fryer or an air fryer for a healthier twist without sacrificing that delectable crunch. Are you ready to elevate your appetizer game and impress your loved ones with these scrumptious wings?
Why Are These Wings So Irresistible?
Crispy Perfection: Each bite delivers a delightful crunch coupled with tender, juicy chicken, making these wings utterly addictive.
Savory Umami Flavor: Marinated in a scrumptious mix of soy sauce and garlic, they pack a flavorful punch that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer deep frying or using an air fryer, enjoy restaurant-level taste right at home.
Gluten-Free Option: Easily make these wings gluten-free by selecting the right flour. It’s a win-win for everyone at the table!
Crowd-Pleasing Favorite: Perfect for game day or casual gatherings, these wings are sure to impress your guests, making any occasion a celebration.
Elevate your meal with these Crispy Chinese Fried Chicken Wings that will have your taste buds dancing!
Chinese Fried Chicken Wings Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Chicken Wings – Fresh, high-quality wings provide a luscious base for flavor.
• Garlic (2 cloves, grated) – Fresh garlic adds the perfect aromatic touch to your marinade.
• Scallion (1, minced) – Delivers a mild onion flavor; substitute with green onion if needed.
• Shaoxing Wine (1 tablespoon) – Enhances depth; dry sherry can substitute in a pinch.
• Soy Sauce (2 tablespoons) – Adds saltiness and color; use low-sodium for a lighter option.
• Oyster Sauce (1 tablespoon) – Rich umami flavor; skip for a vegetarian version or replace with mushroom sauce.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon) – Boosts overall flavor; adjust according to dietary requirements.
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour (3 tablespoons) – Forms a light, crispy batter; gluten-free flour can be used instead.
• Cornstarch (4 tablespoons) – Essential for achieving the desired crispiness of your wings.
For Frying
• Neutral Oil for Deep-Frying – Canola or vegetable oil is recommended for frying perfection.
These Chinese Fried Chicken Wings are not just delicious; they’re a gathering staple that will leave everyone wanting more!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chinese Fried Chicken Wings
Step 1: Marinate the Wings
Start by poking holes in your fresh chicken wings to ensure they absorb all the delicious flavors. In a large bowl, mix together grated garlic, minced scallion, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and salt. Add the wings to this mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Let them marinate at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or for maximum flavor, refrigerate overnight.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
Once marinated, drain any excess marinade from the chicken wings, allowing them to rest briefly. In a shallow dish, add all-purpose flour and mix it with cornstarch until it’s well combined. Toss the drained wings in this mixture, making sure they are evenly coated and sticky. This layer will be key to achieving the perfect crispy texture for your Chinese Fried Chicken Wings.
Step 3: First Frying Stage
In a deep pot, heat neutral oil to 320°F (160°C). Carefully lower the coated wings into the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for about 3 minutes, gently stirring them halfway through for even cooking. The wings should turn a light golden brown during this stage. Once done, remove the wings and place them on a wire rack to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Second Frying Stage
Increase the oil temperature to 350°F (175°C) for the second fry, which helps create that ultimate crispiness. Once hot, return all the wings to the pot, frying them for an additional 2 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should turn a beautiful golden brown. After frying, let them rest again on a wire rack, allowing any excess oil to drip away and ensuring your Chinese Fried Chicken Wings maintain their crunch.
What to Serve with Irresistibly Crispy Chinese Fried Chicken Wings
Pairing the wings with complementary sides can take your meal from ordinary to extraordinary, creating a symphony of flavors.
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Fragrant Jasmine Rice: The mild, nutty flavor of jasmine rice provides a beautiful backdrop that balances the savory richness of the wings.
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Crispy Asian Slaw: A crunchy salad made with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing adds freshness and a delightful textural contrast.
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Sweet and Sour Dipping Sauce: A tangy sauce made with vinegar, sugar, and ketchup enhances the wings’ umami notes, perfect for dipping.
Serve with a chilled glass of Light Beer for a refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Pickled Daikon Radish: The sharp, tangy crunch of pickled daikon cuts through the richness of the wings, offering a refreshing palate cleanser.
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Steamed Broccoli: A simple side of steamed broccoli provides a healthy, vibrant option that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the wings.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy treat is a delightful way to end the meal, balancing the savory notes with a touch of sweetness.
A thoughtful combination of sides and drinks elevates your Chinese Fried Chicken Wings into a memorable culinary experience!
Expert Tips for Crispy Chinese Fried Chicken Wings
- Monitor Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep oil temperatures accurate; too hot can burn the coating, while too cool will make them soggy.
- Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, marinate your chicken wings overnight. This allows the savory umami blend to really penetrate the meat.
- Coating Techniques: Ensure the wings are sticky before coating with flour and cornstarch; this helps the crispy layer adhere better during frying.
- Resting Period: Letting the wings rest after frying for a few minutes helps maintain their crispy texture by letting excess oil drain away.
- Air Fryer Adjustments: If using an air fryer for your Chinese fried chicken wings, avoid overcrowding the basket and spray lightly with oil for optimal crispiness.
Chinese Fried Chicken Wings Variations
Feel free to get creative with these variations that will spark your culinary imagination and enhance your wings!
- Boneless Thighs: Substitute chicken wings with boneless thighs for a juicy alternative. Adjust cooking times, frying for 8-10 minutes initially.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a splash of Sriracha to the marinade for a fiery flavor that’ll excite your taste buds. A little heat can enhance the wings’ umami profile significantly.
- Honey Garlic Glaze: Drizzle a homemade honey garlic sauce over the fried wings for a sweet and savory twist. Combine honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic for a delicious finishing touch.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the marinade for a burst of freshness. This will elevate the flavors with each bite, giving them an aromatic lift.
- Crispy Panko Coating: For an extra crunch, replace all-purpose flour with panko breadcrumbs. This will create an irresistibly crispy coating that’s hard to resist.
- Garlic Parmesan: After frying, toss the wings in a mix of grated parmesan and garlic powder for an Italian-inspired flavor that even non-Chinese food lovers will appreciate.
- Asian Sesame Twist: Drizzle sesame oil over the wings before serving and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty richness. This adds another layer of flavor that makes these wings extraordinary.
- Crispy Skin Alternative: For air fryer enthusiasts, consider marinating wings a bit longer for deeper flavor, then fry lightly with oil spray for that perfect crisp without the deep frying fuss.
As you reimagine these Chinese Fried Chicken Wings, check out ideas like Crack Chicken Tenders or explore the flavors in Mongolian Chicken Wow for more delicious inspiration!
Storage Tips for Chinese Fried Chicken Wings
Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and crispy.
Freezer: Freeze entirely cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1 hour, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your Chinese fried chicken wings again, reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until crispy, about 10-12 minutes.
Avoid Moisture: Ensure wings are cooled completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup, which can make them soggy.
Make Ahead Options
These Chinese Fried Chicken Wings are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their irresistible flavors even on the busiest of nights! You can marinate the wings up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine them with the garlic, scallions, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and salt, then refrigerate them in an airtight container. Additionally, you can coat the wings with flour and cornstarch a few hours before cooking. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry. When you’re set to serve, fry the wings as directed in the recipe for just as delicious results. By prepping ahead, you save invaluable time while guaranteeing that restaurant-quality crunch everyone loves!
Chinese Fried Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken wings for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken wings, look for fresh, high-quality wings with a good amount of meat and minimal dark spots. A bright, pinkish color typically indicates freshness. If possible, buy organic or free-range options for a tastier and healthier dish.
How long can I store leftover Chinese fried chicken wings?
You can keep your delicious wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup, which can make them soggy.
Can I freeze the wings for later use?
Certainly! Cool the wings completely and lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about 1 hour, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes until they’re crispy again!
What should I do if my wings come out soggy?
If your wings aren’t crisping up, it may be due to low oil temperature or overcrowding during frying. Make sure the oil is at the right temperature (320°F for the first fry, 350°F for the second fry) and fry in smaller batches to allow proper heat circulation. Letting the wings rest after frying helps too; they’ll become crunchier as the excess oil evaporates.
Can I make these wings gluten-free?
Very! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch, which will still yield a crispy texture. Always check labels for soy and oyster sauce as well, ensuring they’re gluten-free options for a worry-free feast.
Is it safe for dogs to try a piece of these wings?
While it might be tempting to share, it’s best to avoid giving these wings to your dog. The garlic and certain sauces, like soy sauce, can be harmful to them. If you want to treat your furry friend, consider cooking a plain piece of chicken without any seasonings!
These Chinese Fried Chicken Wings are not only a crowd-pleasing favorite, but with these tips, you’ll ensure that success is just a fry away! Recipe FAQs.
Crispy Chinese Fried Chicken Wings That Wow Every Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Poke holes in fresh chicken wings to absorb flavors. Mix garlic, scallion, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and salt in a bowl. Coat wings in marinade and let them marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Drain excess marinade from chicken wings. Mix flour and cornstarch in a shallow dish. Toss drained wings until evenly coated and sticky.
- Heat neutral oil to 320°F (160°C). Fry wings in batches for 3 minutes, stirring halfway through until lightly golden brown. Remove and place on a wire rack to drain oil.
- Increase oil temperature to 350°F (175°C). Fry wings again for 2 minutes until golden brown. Let them rest on a wire rack to ensure crunch.
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