Name: Crispy Fried Chicken Wings: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Fix
Prep time: 120 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 162 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Chicken Wings (Choose whole wings or sections (flats and drums)); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (Adds essential saltiness and umami flavor); 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce (Enhances the savory notes; can be omitted); 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (Infuses a distinct nutty aroma; skip for lighter option); 2 tablespoons Shaoxing Wine (Contributes a unique flavor; dry sherry works as a substitute); 1 cup Cornstarch (Ensures a crispy texture; swap with all-purpose flour if preferred); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Flavor enhancer); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Flavor enhancer); 1 teaspoon Five Spice (Packs a punch of flavor)

As I stood in my kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of marinated chicken wings took me back to my favorite Chinese restaurant—where the first bite of those crispy Fried Chicken Wings ignited a celebration of flavors. This recipe captures that very essence, allowing you to recreate those beloved takeout moments right at home. With a simple marinade featuring soy sauce, fish sauce, and a hint of Shaoxing wine, these wings transition from ordinary to extraordinary in no time. They are not only quick to prepare but also serve as an irresistible crowd-pleaser, making them a perfect choice for any gathering. Ready to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s bound to satisfy your comfort food cravings and make weekdays feel a little more festive!

Why Are These Wings So Irresistible?

Incredible Flavor Fusion: The blend of soy sauce, fish sauce, and sesame oil creates a mouthwatering marinade that dazzles your taste buds.
Crispy Texture: Thanks to the cornstarch coating, these wings have a perfectly crunchy outside that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat inside.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have restaurant-quality wings ready to devour in under an hour.
Perfect for Sharing: These wings are a hit at any gathering, enticing both family and friends to come back for more. Enhance your meal by serving them with fried rice or even alongside some fresh salad.
Make Ahead Option: Marinating the wings the night before means all the flavors will have time to develop, making your cooking day a breeze!

Fried Chicken Wings Ingredients

• Prepare to create mouthwatering Fried Chicken Wings with this simple list!

For the Wings

Chicken Wings – Choose whole wings or sections (flats and drums) for a delightful bite.
Soy Sauce – Adds essential saltiness and umami flavor for depth.
Fish Sauce – Enhances the savory notes; you can omit or replace it with more soy sauce if preferred.
Sesame Oil – Infuses a distinct nutty aroma; skip it for a lighter version.
Shaoxing Wine – Contributes a unique flavor; dry sherry works as a substitute, or feel free to omit it.

For the Coating

Cornstarch – Ensures a crispy texture; swap with all-purpose flour for a thicker crust if you fancy.
Spices (garlic powder, onion powder, 5 spice) – Packs a punch of flavor; adjust to fit your taste buds.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chinese Restaurant Style Fried Chicken Wings

Step 1: Marinate the Wings
In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, Shaoxing wine, garlic powder, onion powder, and five-spice powder. Add the chicken wings, ensuring they’re fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the wings marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but preferably for 2 hours, allowing all those beautiful flavors to soak in and deepen.

Step 2: Prepare for Frying
Once marinated, remove the wings from the refrigerator and drain any excess marinade. In a large bowl, toss the wings in cornstarch until they are lightly dusted. This coating is essential for achieving those delightfully crispy fried chicken wings. Set the wings aside on a wire rack to ensure they don’t clump together while you heat the oil.

Step 3: Heat Oil
In a deep frying pan or a heavy-bottomed pot, pour enough oil to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) on a thermometer. If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread; it should sizzle and turn golden brown within about 60 seconds, indicating it’s ready for frying.

Step 4: Fry the Wings
Carefully lower the coated chicken wings into the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding to maintain the oil temperature. Fry the wings for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until they attain a golden brown color and a crispy exterior. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the wings once done, letting any excess oil drain back into the pan.

Step 5: Drain and Serve
Once the wings are golden and crispy, place them on a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve the Chinese restaurant style fried chicken wings hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauce, and savor the juicy, flavorful bites that are sure to please.

Make Ahead Options

These Chinese Restaurant Style Fried Chicken Wings are perfect for busy weeknights or any day you want to save time in the kitchen! You can marinate the wings up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop deeply. Simply combine the marinade ingredients and coat the chicken wings the night before. Additionally, you can toss the marinated wings in cornstarch and refrigerate them for up to 3 hours to maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to fry, just heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry them in batches until golden brown, ensuring they’re just as delicious as when made fresh. This meal prep strategy not only saves you time but also guarantees delightful, flavorful results!

Expert Tips for Fried Chicken Wings

Marinate Longer: For the most flavorful Fried Chicken Wings, aim to marinate overnight. This allows the spices and sauces to deeply penetrate the meat.
Control Oil Temperature: Always use a thermometer! If the oil is too hot, your wings will burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb excess grease.
Double Frying Secret: For irresistibly crispy wings, double fry them! Fry once until golden, allow to rest, then fry again just before serving.
Avoid Overcrowding: When frying, work in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking and soggy wings.
Tidy Up Your Coating: Ensure each wing is evenly coated in cornstarch to achieve that beautiful craggy skin, enhancing both texture and crunch in your fried chicken wings.

What to Serve with Chinese Restaurant Style Fried Chicken Wings

Elevate your homemade feast with delightful sides that perfectly complement the crispy crunch and savory flavor of these wings.

Fried Rice: Loaded with veggies and soy sauce, it creates a satisfying comfort food duo that balances the rich sauce of the wings.
Sweet and Sour Sauce: Drizzling this tangy, fruity sauce over the wings adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing their umami notes brilliantly.
Asian Slaw: A crisp cabbage slaw dressed in sesame vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, counteracting the richness of the fried chicken.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli provides a healthy, vibrant touch to your meal, balancing the heaviness of the wings.
Crispy Spring Rolls: The texture of these rolls paired with sweet chili sauce creates an irresistible combination, offering a fabulous crunch in every bite.
Chili Soy Dipping Sauce: This zesty blend accentuates the flavors of the wings, providing a kick that keeps your taste buds dancing.
Beer or Sparkling Water: A cold beer or fizzy beverage pairs beautifully with fried foods, refreshing your palate between bites.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat offers a unique flavor contrast, beautifully rounding out a fun meal inspired by Asian cuisine.

How to Store and Freeze Fried Chicken Wings

Fridge: Store leftover Fried Chicken Wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while preserving their flavor and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will maintain quality for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy, reheat wings in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 10 minutes, ensuring they stay crispy.

Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw frozen wings overnight in the fridge before reheating; this helps maintain their delicious flavor and texture.

Fried Chicken Wings Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Fried Chicken Wings, elevating them with exciting twists and substitutions!

Spicy Heat: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick that brings the wings to life.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep these wings gluten-free while maintaining a delicious flavor.
Peanut Oil: Swap out sesame oil for peanut oil for a unique nutty flavor that complements the wings beautifully.
Double Fry: For added crunch, fry the wings once, let them rest, and fry again right before serving to achieve an irresistible crispy exterior.
Garlic Lovers: Toss minced garlic into the marinade for an extra layer of flavor that only enhances the dish’s appeal.
Air Fry: For a healthier twist, try air frying your wings. You’ll savor crispy results with way less oil!
Herb-Infused: Infuse the marinade with fresh herbs like cilantro or scallions to add a vibrant freshness that brightens each bite.
Sweet & Tangy: Include a tablespoon of honey or hoisin sauce in the marinade for a delightful sweet contrast to the savory flavors.

Whatever variation you choose, these Fried Chicken Wings are bound to deliver a crowd-pleasing experience. Pair them with some homemade chicken rolls or a refreshing salad for a delicious meal that’s sure to impress your family!

Fried Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken wings for frying?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken wings, look for those that are firm, with no dark spots or sliminess. Fresh wings should have a uniform color and be plump. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to ask your butcher or check the packaged date if buying pre-packaged.

How should I store leftover fried chicken wings?
Very! Once cooked, allow the wings to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can always reheat them in the oven or air fryer to regain some of that lost crispiness before satisfying your cravings!

Can I freeze the fried chicken wings?
Absolutely, you can! To freeze, first place the wings on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I do if my wings aren’t crispy after frying?
No worries! If your wings aren’t crispy, it might mean the oil temperature was too low or the wings were overcrowded during frying. Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) before adding the wings, and give them enough space to fry evenly. For extra crispiness, try double frying: fry them once until golden, let them cool, and fry again shortly before serving.

Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind for Fried Chicken Wings?
Of course! While this recipe is primarily focused on chicken and spices, if you have allergies, be cautious with the soy sauce and fish sauce—look for gluten-free or alternative products if you have gluten sensitivities. Consider using seasoning alternatives to cater to personal preferences or dietary restrictions. As for pets, avoid giving them wings with any marinade, especially those containing garlic or onion, which can be harmful.