Craving a flavorful and crispy treat that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Chinese fried chicken wing recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Forget takeout – homemade cooking has never been more satisfying! This recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and those seeking to elevate their culinary skills. Prepare to be amazed by how simple it is to achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving extra crispy skin! In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, ginger powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the chicken wings and toss until evenly coated.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken wings in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the chicken wings from the skillet and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
While the chicken is frying, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic in a small bowl. Stir in the cornstarch slurry until smooth.
Step 4: Toss and Serve
Return the fried chicken wings to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the wings and toss to coat evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the wings are glazed. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Chinese fried chicken wings!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra crispy chicken, double fry the wings. Fry them once until mostly cooked, then let them rest, and fry again for a few minutes until extra crispy.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level.
- For a sweeter sauce, add a tablespoon or two more honey.
- You can use other types of chicken, such as thighs or drumsticks, if desired.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the number of wings and the size of the wings. This is an estimate for one average-sized wing:
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
This delicious Chinese fried chicken wing recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that don't compromise on flavor. It’s a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat. Enjoy this simple yet incredibly satisfying dish – it's sure to become one of your best recipes!