Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings

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Why Make This Recipe

Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings are a delightful treat that bring a burst of flavor in every bite. If you love chicken wings, this recipe will take your taste buds on an exciting journey to Asian-inspired flavors. The crispy exterior, combined with the juicy meat inside, makes these wings truly irresistible. Whether you’re planning a game day feast, hosting a barbecue, or just craving something delicious, these wings are sure to please. Plus, they are easy to make and can be enjoyed by everyone.

These wings are not just tasty, but they also provide a fantastic way to introduce some new flavors to your dinner table. The use of oyster and soy sauces, along with the right spices, creates a rich flavor profile that stands apart from regular buffalo wings. If you have a party coming up, these wings could easily become the star dish that everyone asks for. So, gather your ingredients and let’s start making these mouthwatering wings!

How to Make Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings

Making Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings is a straightforward process, and you’ll find that once you start, you won’t want to stop. Here’s a detailed guide that will walk you through each step, ensuring you have perfect wings every time.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you will need:

2 pounds Chicken Wings (Separated into drums and flats)
1 large Egg
3 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (Substitute with soy sauce for vegetarian option)
2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Use low-sodium if desired)
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh garlic can be used, adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon White Pepper (Black pepper can be used as a substitute)
Oil for frying (Vegetable or peanut oil recommended)
1 cup All-purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
1/2 cup Cornstarch (Rice flour can be used as an optional substitute)
1 teaspoon Baking Powder (No substitutions here)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken Wings: Start by rinsing the chicken wings under cold water. Once cleaned, pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step is crucial to achieve that crispy texture later.
Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings with the oyster sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and white pepper. Mix well so that each wing gets coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse into the chicken.
Prepare the Coating: While the chicken is marinating, take another bowl and mix together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. This mixture will give the wings their crispy coating.
Beat the Egg: In a small bowl, crack the egg and beat it until it is well mixed. This egg will act as the glue for your flour coating.
Coat the Chicken Wings: After the wings have marinated, remove them from the fridge. Dip each marinated wing first into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, roll it in the flour mixture until it’s completely covered. Repeat this process for all wings.
Heat the Oil: In a large pan or deep fryer, heat the oil until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer to ensure you get the right temperature; this step is important for frying.
Fry the Wings: Once the oil is hot, carefully add the wings in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Fry the wings for about 8 to 10 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Make sure to stir them occasionally for even cooking. Use a slotted spoon to remove the wings from the oil and drain them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serve: Your Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings are now ready to enjoy! Serve them hot, optionally with dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or even a homemade garlic dip for added zest. You can also garnish them with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a lovely presentation.

How to Serve Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings

Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas:

As a Main Dish: Serve a platter of wings with steamed rice and some stir-fried vegetables. This makes a complete meal that is both satisfying and balanced.
At a Party: Arrange a beautiful tray of wings on your buffet table for parties or gatherings. Include a variety of dipping sauces, such as sweet and sour, soy sauce, or even homemade teriyaki sauce for guests to enjoy.
With Drinks: These wings pair well with beer or soft drinks. Create a mini sports bar at home by serving wings alongside chips and your favorite beverages during sports events or movie nights.
As a Snack: Serve a smaller portion as a casual snack. They are perfect for something to munch on while watching TV or enjoying a cozy evening at home.

How to Store Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings

If you have any leftovers (though unlikely because they are so delicious), here’s how to store them:

Cooling: Allow the wings to cool completely at room temperature after frying. Avoid leaving them out for more than two hours to prevent any food safety issues.
Refrigerating: Place the cooled wings in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the wings. Place the cooled wings in a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness.
Reheating: To reheat the wings, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the wings on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until they are warmed through and crispy again.

Tips to Make Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings

Dry the Wings Thoroughly: Make sure to pat the wings dry before marinating. This helps achieve an extra crispy texture when frying.
Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If you have time, marinating the wings for a few hours or even overnight in the fridge can greatly enhance the flavor.
Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices, including garlic and pepper, elevate the taste of the wings. If you have fresh garlic, try mincing it and adding it to the marinade for an even stronger flavor.
Test the Oil Temperature: To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of bread in. If it sizzles and browns quickly, the oil is ready.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the wings in batches. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, making the wings less crispy.
Drain Well After Frying: Allow the fried wings to drain on paper towels. This step is important to remove excess oil, keeping the wings crispy.

Variation

You can customize Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings in various ways:

Spicy Wings: Add some chili powder or hot sauce to the marinade if you enjoy a spicy kick. You can also toss the cooked wings in a spicy sauce for an extra burst of heat.
Herb Infusion: Consider adding dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the flour mixture to introduce new flavors to the crispy coating.
Sweet and Sticky Wings: After frying, toss the wings in a mixture of honey and soy sauce for a sweet and sticky finish. This adds a different flavor profile that many people love.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings! Just be sure to thaw them completely before following the recipe. This ensures even cooking.

2. What dipping sauces pair well with these wings?
You can use a variety of sauces including sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, ranch dressing, or even a homemade garlic dipping sauce for a unique twist.

3. How do I get my wings extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispy wings, make sure they are dried thoroughly before marinading, and be sure not to overcrowd them while frying. You can also try double-dipping them in the egg and flour mixture for an extra layer of coating.

4. Can I bake these wings instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the coated wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

5. How long do they take to prepare and cook?
Preparation and marination time will take about an hour in total, while cooking will take another 15-20 minutes. Therefore, you should expect to spend around 1.5 hours from start to finish.

With these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to making perfect Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings that will impress family and friends alike. Enjoy your cooking and happy eating!