Tired of dry, overcooked chicken wings? Prepare for a flavor explosion! This braised chicken wing recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone tenderness and incredible depth of flavor. It's a surprisingly easy recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner, a game-day snack, or even a sophisticated appetizer. Get ready to experience chicken wings like never before! This recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy meals can also be incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you crave a quick dinner idea.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Wings
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken wings in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the wings on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned wings and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the bell peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
Step 3: Braising the Chicken
Return the browned chicken wings to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and braise for at least 45 minutes, or until the chicken is incredibly tender. The longer you braise, the more tender the chicken will become.
Step 4: Making the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons of the braising liquid until smooth. Pour the cornstarch mixture into the pot and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened. Stir in the sesame oil and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 5: Serving
Remove the chicken wings from the braising liquid and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds. Serve with steamed rice, noodles, or as a standalone appetizer.
Tips for the Best Braised Chicken Wings:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Browning the chicken wings in batches ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Make it ahead: These braised chicken wings taste even better the next day! They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Garlic Wings: Add more garlic and red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Sweet and Sour Wings: Increase the amount of honey and rice vinegar for a sweeter and tangier flavor.
- Teriyaki Wings: Replace the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a delicious twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This recipe for homemade cooking offers a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy chicken wings. It’s a delicious dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!