Are you craving a delicious, crispy, and flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for Chinese-style fried chicken wings is the perfect answer for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat. These wings are bursting with aromatic spices and a satisfying crunch, and they're way easier to make than you might think. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet unforgettable dish! This recipe offers a fantastic blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors that define the best of Chinese cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar (or white wine vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon five-spice powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving extra crispy skin.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic powder, five-spice powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
Marinate and Fry:
- Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they're evenly coated in the marinade. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, for a couple of hours in the refrigerator. The longer they marinate, the more flavorful they'll be.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the correct temperature; this is key for perfectly crispy wings.
- Carefully add the chicken wings to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry in batches if necessary to maintain the oil temperature.
- Fry the wings for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Drain and Serve:
- Remove the wings from the oil and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
- Serve immediately and enjoy! These are fantastic on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce or a simple honey mustard.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Wings:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy wings. Fry in batches for best results.
- Use a thermometer: A deep-fry thermometer is your best friend for ensuring the oil is at the correct temperature.
- Double-fry for extra crispiness: For exceptionally crispy wings, you can try a double-frying method. Fry the wings once, then let them rest for a few minutes, then fry them again for a shorter time to achieve ultimate crispiness.
Variations:
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to the marinade for a sweet and spicy kick.
- Garlic Lovers: Increase the amount of garlic powder to your liking. Minced fresh garlic can also be added to the marinade.
- Lemon-Herb Wings: Add the zest and juice of one lemon, along with some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, to the marinade for a bright and herbaceous twist.
Nutritional Information (per wing, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy Chinese fried chicken wings recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The flavorful marinade and crispy texture will have everyone asking for more! Enjoy this delicious homemade cooking experience, and remember to share your culinary creations with us!