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Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Mouthwatering Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings Recipe

These Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings are a mouthwatering blend of crunch and spiciness, perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 wings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • ¼ cup Shaoxing Wine Substitute with sake, dry sherry, or beer if unavailable.
  • 1 tablespoon Minced Ginger Fresh ginger preferred for the most authentic flavor.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; adjust quantity based on taste preference.
  • 1 tablespoon Kosher Salt Sea salt is a great alternative.
  • 2 ½ pounds Chicken Wings Dark meat is better for flavor and tenderness.
For the Coating
  • 1 cup Potato Starch Cornstarch or sweet potato starch can be used as a replacement.
  • 2 to 3 cups Oil for Frying Use neutral, high-smoke-point oils like canola or vegetable.
For the Topping
  • 4 to 6 Chiles Adjust quantity according to spice preference; options include serrano or jalapeño.
  • 3 to 4 cloves Garlic Sliced, used for frying with chiles.
  • 1 tablespoon Butter Adds richness to the chile topping.
  • 1/8 teaspoon Ground White Pepper Black pepper can be substituted.
  • ¼ to ½ teaspoon Szechuan Pepper-Salt Can be replaced with kosher salt and black pepper.

Equipment

  • Heavy skillet or wok
  • mixing bowl
  • slotted spoon
  • Shallow dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine Shaoxing wine, minced ginger, minced garlic, and kosher salt. Add chicken wings and toss to coat. Cover and let marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature.
  2. While wings are marinating, heat oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Place potato starch in a shallow dish and coat marinated chicken wings evenly.
  3. Add coated chicken wings in batches to the hot oil, frying each batch for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
  4. In another skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced chiles and garlic, sautéing for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly browned and fragrant.
  5. Arrange fried wings on a serving platter, spoon sautéed chiles and garlic over them, sprinkle with ground white pepper and Szechuan pepper-salt. Serve warm.

Notes

Use fresh ingredients for authentic flavor. Ensure oil temperature is about 350°F before frying for perfect crispiness. Adjust spice level based on preference. Let wings rest on paper towels briefly before serving.