The sizzling sound of chicken wings hitting hot oil brings back memories of cozy nights spent enjoying Chinese takeout, doesn’t it? With this Fried Chicken Wings recipe, I invite you to recreate that satisfying crunch and incredible flavor right in your kitchen. These wings are marinated in a savory mix of soy sauce, fish sauce, and Shaoxing wine, ensuring they are bursting with deliciousness. Not only are they crispy and utterly irresistible, but they’re also quick to prepare, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends. Ready to impress your taste buds and elevate your comfort food game? Let’s dive into making these mouthwatering Chinese takeout-style wings together!
Why Are Fried Chicken Wings So Irresistible?
Crispy Texture: The secret to getting that delicious crunch lies in the cornstarch coating, which creates a perfectly crispy exterior.
Savory Marinade: Each wing is marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, fish sauce, and spices that gives them an unforgettable taste, reminiscent of your favorite Chinese restaurant.
Quick Cooking: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these wings in about 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you serve them at a party or a family dinner, these wings are sure to wow your guests and leave them asking for seconds. For a complete meal, pair your wings with some fried rice or a side salad for a balanced spread!
Fried Chicken Wings Ingredients
For the Marinade
• Chicken Wings – The star ingredient; choose whole wings or separate drums and flats for easy handling.
• Soy Sauce – Adds rich umami flavor; opt for low sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Fish Sauce – Enhances savory depth; you can skip it if you prefer or need a substitute.
• Sesame Oil – Infuses a lovely nutty taste; use vegetable oil for a milder flavor.
• Shaoxing Wine – Brings complexity to the dish; dry sherry is a great alternative if you don’t have it.
For the Coating
• Cornstarch – Creates that coveted crispy exterior; for extra crunch, mix in some flour.
• Egg – Helps bind the coating to the wings; omit it if opting for a purely cornstarch coating.
For Flavor
• Spices (garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, etc.) – Customize to your palate; adjust the amounts based on your flavor preference.
These Fried Chicken Wings are packed with flavor and texture, ensuring you’ll recreate the essence of your favorite takeout right at home!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fried Chicken Wings
Step 1: Marinate the Wings
In a large bowl, combine your chicken wings with soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, Shaoxing wine, and your selected spices. Mix well to ensure every wing is evenly coated. Cover the bowl and let the wings marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor; longer is even better for deeper taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the wings are marinating, prepare your cornstarch coating. In a separate bowl, measure out the cornstarch and mix in any additional flour if desired for extra crunch. This dry mixture is essential for creating that crispy coating we all love in fried chicken wings. Set this bowl aside for later use.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a deep frying pan, pour in enough oil to submerge the wings halfway, about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). To ensure a crispy result, use a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature; hot oil is crucial for achieving the perfect golden-brown exterior.
Step 4: Coat the Wings
Remove the marinated chicken wings from the refrigerator and let excess marinade drip off. Dredge each wing in the cornstarch mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated. This step is vital for that signature crispy skin that makes these fried chicken wings so irresistible. Shake off any excess coating before frying.
Step 5: Fry the Wings
Carefully place the coated wings into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown and crispy. The wings should be floating in the hot oil, which indicates they’re cooking properly; a golden crust is your visual cue for doneness.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the wings from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Allow them to rest for a few minutes, ensuring excess oil is absorbed, which keeps your fried chicken wings light and crispy. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as fried rice, for a meal that feels just like your favorite Chinese takeout!
Storage Tips for Fried Chicken Wings
Fridge: Store leftover fried chicken wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen wings directly in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. This method helps retain that beloved crunch of your fried chicken wings.
Room Temperature: Keep cooked wings at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety before refrigerating or freezing.
What to Serve with Chinese Takeout Style Fried Chicken Wings
Transform your homemade wings into a delicious feast with these irresistible pairing suggestions that balance flavors and textures.
- Fried Rice: A delightful accompaniment that combines flavors and textures perfectly, making your meal feel complete and satisfying.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These golden, crunchy rolls filled with veggies or meat add a bite-sized perfection to your meal for a delightful contrast.
- Garlicky Green Beans: Sautéed with garlic and soy sauce, these green beans bring a fresh, crunchy element that pairs beautifully with your wings.
- Steamed Broccoli: Offering a nutritious and lightly bitter counterpart, steamed broccoli balances the savory richness of the wings beautifully.
- Sweet & Sour Sauce: A tangy dip that enhances every bite of your crispy wings, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
- Chilled Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad adds a cooling crunch to your meal, rounding out the flavors and textures.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy mix of cabbage and carrots tossed in a sesame dressing provides a vibrant and tangy side that complements your wings splendidly.
- Cold Beer or Iced Green Tea: Pairing your crispy fried chicken wings with a cold beverage elevates the dining experience, enhancing the savory flavors.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat with creamy coconut and ripe mango nicely contrasts the savory wings, satisfying your sweet tooth.
Make Ahead Options
These Fried Chicken Wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the wings up to 24 hours in advance, letting the flavors deepen for more delicious results. Simply mix the soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, Shaoxing wine, and spices to create your marinade, then store the coated wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the coating, prepare your cornstarch mixture ahead of time and keep it in a sealed bag. When you’re ready to serve, just heat your oil, coat the marinated wings, and fry them for a quick and satisfying meal—all while enjoying that unbeatable taste reminiscent of your favorite takeout!
Fried Chicken Wings Customization
Feel free to get creative with these Fried Chicken Wings—let your taste buds guide you to delicious new variations!
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Crispy & Extra Crunchy: Combine cornstarch with half flour for an even crispier coating!
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Vegetarian Option: Replace wings with cauliflower florets for a delightful plant-based dish.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a fiery flavor boost that’s sure to please heat lovers.
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Sweet & Savory: Drizzle sweet chile sauce on the cooked wings for a delicious contrast to the savory marinade; it’s a treat you’ll want to make again!
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or green onion to the marinade for a fresher taste; it elevates the dish beautifully.
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Mix It Up: Experiment with different spices, like five-spice powder, for an exciting twist that nods to authentic Asian flavors.
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Own Your Dip: Pair the wings with a homemade dipping sauce—try a zesty garlic-soy sauce or a tangy sweet chili sauce for that perfect complement.
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Quick Oven Bake: If frying isn’t your style, bake the wings coated with the mixture at 425°F (220°C) until crispy for a healthier, but equally delicious, option.
For a wholesome meal, why not pair your wings with some Grilled Chicken Veggie or enjoy them alongside a bowl of comforting Poblano Chicken Tortilla soup?
Expert Tips for Fried Chicken Wings
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Hot Oil is Key: Make sure your oil reaches 350°F (175°C) to prevent sogginess. Use a thermometer for consistent results.
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Don’t Overcrowd: Fry wings in batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature, which can lead to greasy, less crispy fried chicken wings.
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Rest for Crispiness: Let wings drain on paper towels after frying to absorb excess oil, enhancing their crunch and keeping them light.
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Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the wings longer than 30 minutes, ideally up to a couple of hours or overnight.
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Flavor Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try adding five-spice powder or chili flakes to the marinade for an exciting twist.
Fried Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe chicken wings?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken wings, look for ones that are plump and free of any discolorations or dark spots all over. Fresh wings should have a slight sheen, and the smell should be pleasant. Avoid any wings that have an off-putting odor or visible bruising.
What is the best storage method for leftover wings?
Very good question! Store leftover fried chicken wings in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To enjoy them at their best, reheat the wings in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which will help to restore their crispy texture.
Can I freeze fried chicken wings?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your fried chicken wings, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm, which usually takes about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the wings to a freezer-safe bag or container—this helps to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer; no thawing necessary!
What if my wings are not crispy enough?
If your wings didn’t turn out as crispy as you’d like, it could be due to a couple of reasons. First, ensure that your oil is hot enough before frying—350°F (175°C) is key to achieving that crispy texture. Secondly, don’t overcrowd the pan while frying; this lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy wings. Fry in small batches to ensure even cooking and maximum crunch.
Are these wings suitable for people with allergies?
Great question! This recipe includes soy sauce and fish sauce, which may not be suitable for individuals with soy or fish allergies. I recommend substituting the fish sauce with a mushroom sauce or simply omitting it for a delightful flavor. Additionally, ensure that any store-bought sauces you use are allergy-friendly, particularly if you have gluten sensitivity.
Crispy Fried Chicken Wings Like Your Favorite Takeout
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine chicken wings with soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, Shaoxing wine, and selected spices. Mix well. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the cornstarch coating in a separate bowl. Mix cornstarch and optional flour.
- Heat enough oil in a deep frying pan to submerge wings halfway, about 2-3 inches deep, to 350°F (175°C).
- Coat marinated wings in cornstarch mixture, shaking off excess coating.
- Fry coated wings for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally.
- Remove wings and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot.
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