Name: Crispy Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings to Savor
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup Shaoxing Wine (Substitute with sake, dry sherry, or dry white wine if needed.); 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger (No direct substitutes suggested for the best flavor.); 2 cloves Minced Garlic (Use fresh for superior results.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Use table salt but adjust the quantity accordingly.); 2 pounds Chicken Wings (Can substitute with boneless skinless thighs.); 1/2 cup Potato Starch (Can replace with cornstarch if necessary.); Oil for frying Oil (Opt for high smoke-point oils like canola or peanut oil.); 4-6 Chiles (Select based on your spice preference.); 2 tablespoons Butter (Adds rich flavor to the topping.); 1 teaspoon Ground White Pepper (Black pepper can be used as an alternative.); 1/4 teaspoon Szechuan Pepper-Salt (If unavailable, substitute with kosher salt and ground black pepper.)

As I stood at the bustling street corner, the air filled with the intoxicating aroma of sizzling spices, I knew it was time to recreate that magic in my own kitchen. Enter the Spicy Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings—a dish that not only delivers a satisfying crunch but also packs a spicy punch that will awaken your taste buds. Marinated in a zesty blend of ginger and garlic, these wings are perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, and you can whip them up in no time. Whether you choose to deep-fry for that classic crispy texture or opt for an air fryer for a lighter twist, this recipe promises to impress. Who needs takeout when you can whip up these mouthwatering wings right at home? Are you ready to bring a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine to your table?

Why Try These Chicken Wings?

Crispy Texture: Achieve that perfect crunch with a simple frying technique or easily adapt to an air fryer for a lighter option.

Bold Flavors: Each bite is bursting with ginger and garlic, enhanced by heat from stir-fried chiles, ensuring a flavorful experience that’s truly unforgettable.

Easy to Adapt: Need to cater to different tastes? Substitute chicken wings for boneless thighs or adjust spice levels by using milder peppers for family-friendly options.

Quick Preparation: Marinate while prepping other dishes—this recipe is perfect for those looking to get dinner on the table without hassle, just like with Tropical Chicken Pineapple.

Crowd Favorite: Whether for game day or a casual get-together, these wings are always a hit, leaving your guests craving more!

Authentic Experience: With roots in Chinese dining, enjoy a classic dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor right into your kitchen!

Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings Ingredients

For the Marinade
• Shaoxing Wine – Adds depth and flavor to the marinade; substitute with sake, dry sherry, or dry white wine if needed.
• Minced Ginger – Provides aromatic warmth; no direct substitutes suggested for the best flavor.
• Minced Garlic – Enhances flavor; use fresh for superior results as powdered garlic is not recommended.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; you can use table salt but adjust the quantity accordingly.

For the Chicken
• Chicken Wings – The star of the dish; can substitute with boneless skinless thighs, just adjust cooking time to 3-5 minutes.
• Potato Starch – Creates that sought-after crispiness; can replace with cornstarch if necessary.
• Oil for Frying – Required for frying; opt for high smoke-point oils like canola or peanut oil.

For the Topping
• Chiles (4-6) – Provides desired heat; select based on your spice preference (serrano or jalapeño work well).
• Butter – Adds rich flavor to the chile topping, making every bite indulgent.
• Ground White Pepper – Delivers a subtle spiciness; black pepper can be used as an alternative if needed.
• Szechuan Pepper-Salt (¼ to ½ teaspoon) – Unique flavor enhancer; if unavailable, substitute with kosher salt and ground black pepper.

Each of these components plays its part in crafting the perfect Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings, ensuring that you’re not just serving a dish but a delightful experience that’ll leave your family and friends clamoring for more!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Wings
In a large bowl, combine chicken wings with Shaoxing wine, minced ginger, minced garlic, and kosher salt. Stir well to ensure all wings are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to enhance the flavors and tenderness—or for an extra boost, let it sit overnight.

Step 2: Prepare for Frying
Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers, reaching about 350°F. This is the ideal temperature for achieving that crispy outer layer. While the oil is heating, place potato starch in a plate or shallow dish. Coat each marinated wing generously in potato starch, ensuring an even layer for extra crunch during frying.

Step 3: Fry the Chicken Wings
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken wings in batches of 5 to 7 pieces. Fry them for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are crispy. Use a slotted spoon to gently turn the wings, ensuring they cook evenly. Once done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Sauté Chiles and Garlic
In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add sliced chiles and minced garlic, stirring frequently for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic becomes slightly golden and fragrant. This step will infuse the buttery base with delightful heat and aromatic flavors that complement the crispy wings perfectly.

Step 5: Combine and Season
In a large serving platter, combine the fried chicken wings with the sautéed chiles and garlic. Toss gently to ensure each wing is coated with the flavorful mixture. Finish the dish by sprinkling ground white pepper and Szechuan pepper-salt over the top for an extra kick. Your Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings are now ready to serve!

Expert Tips for Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Marination Time: Longer is better: Allow the wings to marinate overnight for maximum flavor absorption and tenderness—the more, the merrier!
Oil Temperature: Perfectly hot: Ensure your oil reaches 350°F before frying; too low and the wings will absorb oil; too high and they’ll burn.
Coating Technique: Even coverage: Really coat each wing in potato starch to guarantee a crisp and crunchy exterior that everyone loves in these Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings.
Batch Frying: Don’t crowd the pan: Fry wings in small batches to maintain oil temperature and prevent steaming, which can lead to sogginess.
Air Fryer Option: Maintain crunch: If using an air fryer, set it to a higher temperature and fry in a single layer, adjusting cooking time for that signature crispiness without deep frying.
Keep It Fresh: Serve immediately: These wings are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer to fully experience their wonderful texture and flavor.

What to Serve with Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

As you prepare your Spicy Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings, consider these delightful pairings that will elevate your meal experience.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness of smashed potatoes curbs the spice, creating a comforting balance that complements the wings beautifully.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers and broccoli adds a crisp, fresh crunch that contrasts perfectly with the savory wings.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, steamed jasmine rice absorbs the delicious flavors, providing a satisfying base to enjoy with spicy bites.
Cold Asian Noodle Salad: With its tangy dressing and refreshing crunch, this salad brings a cooling effect to the heat of the wings, making for a well-rounded meal.
Beer or Sparkling Water: A cold craft beer enhances the flavor of the spicy wings, while sparkling water offers a refreshing cleanse between bites.
Sweet and Sour Sauce: For those who enjoy a little extra sweetness, a side of sweet and sour sauce makes for an exciting dip that complements the spicy notes.
Garlic Breadsticks: These fluffy delights offer a soft, buttery bite, perfect for saucing up any leftover spicy goodness.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this delightful treat cools the palate while adding a sweet finish, creating a satisfying end to your meal.

With these pairing ideas, your homemade platter of Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings will surely dazzle your family and friends!

Make Ahead Options

These Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken wings in the ginger and garlic mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those flavors to deepen and ensure a tender bite. Additionally, the wings can be fully coated in potato starch and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just remember to keep them in an airtight container to maintain their crunch. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry them straight from the fridge for gloriously crispy results! Finish by sautéing the chiles and garlic just before serving, and enjoy restaurant-quality wings with minimal effort.

Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings Variations

Feel free to explore these exciting twists and transformations to make this recipe your own!

Substitute Protein: Use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead for a juicier bite; adjust frying time to 3-5 minutes for these cuts.
Air Fryer Method: For a healthier take, cook in an air fryer at 400°F for about 25 minutes for that same delightful crispness.
Spice Level Adjustments: Prefer milder wings? Swap chiles for sweet bell peppers, or omit them for a family-friendly option.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of sesame oil to the marinade for an aromatic twist that elevates the traditional flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Version: Use cornstarch in place of potato starch and ensure your soy sauce and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Crispy No Frying: Try baking the wings at a high temperature (425°F) for 30-40 minutes; just keep an eye on them for golden perfection!
Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in chopped scallions or cilantro just before serving for an added freshness that brightens each bite.
Szechuan Level Up: For an extra punch, increase the amount of Szechuan pepper-salt; it offers a numbing heat that excites the taste buds.

Feel free to explore these exciting twists and variations to make this dish something special for you and your loved ones, and if you’re looking for something different, why not try a delicious rendition of Savory Chicken Cheesy or a unique take with Honey Chili Chicken? The possibilities are endless!

How to Store and Freeze Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for optimal crispiness or in the microwave, but be mindful of potential sogginess.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag after 1-2 hours. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat frozen wings in the oven at 375°F until warmed through and crispy, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, the air fryer works well to re-establish that delightful crunch.

Meal Prep: Marinate wings in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying for quick meal options throughout the week.

Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken wings?
Look for chicken wings that are plump and firm, with a fresh smell and no discoloration. Avoid wings with dark spots or a slimy texture, as these may indicate spoilage. I often opt for organic or free-range wings for the best flavor and quality.

How should I store leftover wings?
Store leftover Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, consider reheating them in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, allowing them to regain their crunch.

Can I freeze my chicken wings?
Absolutely! To freeze, first lay the cooked wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container, and they will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in the oven to bring back that wonderful crunch.

What should I do if my wings aren’t crispy?
If your Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings aren’t crispy, check a few things: ensure the oil was hot enough (350°F), the wings are well-coated in potato starch, and avoid overcrowding the pan while frying. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect crunchy texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for servings?
Yes! Be cautious with allergies: this recipe contains wheat (from the soy sauce) and can be made gluten-free by using tamari. If serving to pets, keep the spices out as they may not be safe for them. Always check with guests for specific dietary restrictions to accommodate everyone’s needs.