The sizzle of hot oil, the anticipation of that first crispy bite—there’s something magical about deep-fried chicken wings. Today, I’m excited to share my version of Double-Fried Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings, a recipe that captures the essence of your favorite takeout without the wait. This quick recipe delivers an irresistible crunch with a juicy interior that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Not only are these wings ready in just an hour, but they’re also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for game nights or casual dinners. Who needs takeout when you can whip up this quick and delightful treat in your own kitchen? Are you ready to master that crispy perfection? Let’s dive into this tasty adventure!
Why Are These Wings So Irresistible?
Crispy Texture: The double-frying method gives these wings a crunch that rivals your favorite takeout. Juicy Interior: Each bite reveals tender, juicy chicken that contrasts beautifully with the crispy coating. Quick Preparation: Made in under an hour, you can easily whip these up for unexpected guests or weeknight dinners. Flavorful Marinade: The blend of oyster and soy sauce infuses a delectable umami kick. Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, they’re sure to impress friends and family! Pair them with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for a fun addition to your meal, just like with Gnocchi Chicken Pot or Parmesan Crusted Chicken.
Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
• Chicken Wings – Use 2 pounds, separated into drums and flats for even cooking.
• Egg – One large egg binds the marinade and adds richness to the wings.
• Oyster Sauce – Brings a deep umami flavor; substitute with soy sauce for a vegetarian option.
• Soy Sauce – Enhances flavor; low-sodium soy sauce can lighten the dish.
• Garlic Powder – For aromatic notes; fresh minced garlic can also work Wonders here!
• White Pepper – Adds subtle heat; black pepper is a good substitute if needed.
• Oil – Choose any neutral oil with a high smoke point for frying.
For the Crispy Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and helps achieve that perfect crunch; gluten-free flour works too.
• Cornstarch – Essential for enhancing crispiness; consider rice flour for an even lighter texture.
• Baking Powder – Creates bubbles during frying for a lighter, crispier coating—don’t skip this one!
Crafted to perfection, these Chinese Chicken Wings will elevate your home dining experience and leave you craving more!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Double-Fried Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings
Step 1: Marinate Wings
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings with one beaten egg, oyster sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, white pepper, and a splash of oil. Toss the wings well to ensure they’re fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to enhance flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare Coating
While the wings marinate, prepare the crispy coating by whisking together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder in a separate bowl. This mixture creates that coveted crunch. When ready, remove the wings from the fridge, allowing any excess marinade to drip off, then add them directly to the dry mixture and toss until they are evenly coated.
Step 3: First Fry
Heat a deep pot or large skillet filled with about three inches of neutral oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated wings in batches, ensuring not to crowd the pot, and fry for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let the wings drain on a wire rack to maintain crispiness.
Step 4: Rest Wings
After the first fry, allow the wings to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it lets moisture escape and sets the stage for that extra crispiness you’re aiming for in these Chinese chicken wings.
Step 5: Second Fry
Increase the oil temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the final fry. In batches, return the wings to the hot oil and fry for just 2-3 minutes, or until they achieve an irresistible, deep golden color and enhanced crisp. This second fry gives the wings their signature crunch, reminiscent of your favorite takeout.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the wings are perfectly crispy, remove them from the oil and let them drain briefly. Serve them hot alongside celery and carrot sticks, paired with your favorite dipping sauce, like sweet chili or soy-based sauce. Your double-fried crispy Chinese chicken wings are now ready to delight your family and friends!
Storage Tips for Chinese Chicken Wings
Fridge: Store the chicken wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days to retain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore the crispiness of these Chinese chicken wings.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving wings out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
What to Serve with Double-Fried Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings
These delightful wings deserve delicious companions to create a well-rounded meal experience that will impress everyone at your table.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness complements the crispy wings perfectly, offering a satisfying texture contrast that’s comforting and indulgent.
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Garlic Fried Rice: A fragrant side that enhances the savory flavors of the wings, this rice dish is easy to whip up and perfectly absorbs the wings’ deliciousness.
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Fresh Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad adds a crisp burst of freshness that balances the richness of the chicken wings, making each bite feel bright and invigorating.
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Steamed Broccoli: A simple and healthy side, steamed broccoli brings a touch of green that pairs beautifully with the crispy wings while adding necessary nutrients to your meal.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: Serve as a dipping option for those craving an extra kick of flavor. The sweetness and spice harmonize with the umami notes of the wings, ensuring every bite is delightful.
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Cold Beer: A refreshing beverage choice that cuts through the richness of the fried wings, a light lager or pale ale will enhance the flavors and keep the mood fun and casual.
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Chocolate Mousse: Finish with a light and airy dessert that provides a sweet contrast to the savory wings. The silky texture of the mousse offers a blissful way to end your meal on a high note.
Make Ahead Options
These Double-Fried Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken wings in the flavorful mixture (egg, oyster sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, white pepper, and oil) up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor. Simply refrigerate the marinated wings in an airtight container until you’re ready to coat and fry. You can also prepare the dry coating (flour, cornstarch, baking powder) ahead of time, keeping it in a separate container. When ready to serve, follow the frying steps as directed for just as delicious results. This makes weeknight dinners or game-day gatherings hassle-free, ensuring you can enjoy crispy wings without the last-minute rush!
Chinese Chicken Wings: Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play around with these ideas; customizing your wings will elevate your culinary experience and satisfy your cravings even more!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch for a crispy coating that everyone can enjoy. The flavor remains just as delicious!
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a fiery twist. This extra heat pairs perfectly with your dipping sauce.
- Honey Glaze: Drizzle honey over the wings post-fry for a sweet contrast to the savory coating, making each bite perfectly balanced.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate zest from an orange or lemon into the marinade for a bright, refreshing flavor boost that adds a delightful twist.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions into the coating. This adds a fresh touch reminiscent of Thai Coconut Chicken flavors.
- BBQ Variation: Toss the fried wings in your favorite BBQ sauce after frying for a smoky, sweet experience that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for summer gatherings!
- Air Fryer Option: For a lighter alternative, try air-frying the coated wings at 380°F until crispy. You’ll get that satisfying crunch with less oil.
- Marinade Swap: Swap oyster sauce for hoisin sauce for a different take, infusing your wings with a slightly sweet and tangy flavor profile that’s simply irresistible.
Ready for a delightful flavor exploration? These ideas will help you craft the perfect Chinese chicken wings and maybe inspire you to create your own flavor combinations!
Expert Tips for Chinese Chicken Wings
• Rest Wisely: Allow the wings to rest after the first fry. This crucial step helps moisture escape for maximum crispiness in the final fry.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep oil at the right temperature—too low makes wings greasy, while too high can burn them. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
• Dry Thoroughly: Pat the chicken wings dry before marinating. This reduces excess moisture, resulting in a crispier coating for your Chinese chicken wings.
• Batch Frying: Fry in small batches to ensure consistent cooking and avoid lowering the oil temperature too much, which can lead to sogginess.
• Experiment with Coating: Feel free to adjust the flour-to-cornstarch ratio. More cornstarch means crunchier wings. You can also try adding different spices for a unique flavor twist.
Chinese Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken wings should I use?
For this recipe, I recommend using 2 pounds of chicken wings, separated into drums and flats. This combination not only provides even cooking but also maximizes the surface area for that crispy coating!
How can I tell if my wings are fresh enough?
Look for wings that are plump and have a bright color. Avoid any that have dark spots or a strong odor. Fresh wings are key to a delicious outcome!
How should I store leftover wings?
Store your Chinese chicken wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze these chicken wings, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the cooked wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm, about 1-2 hours. Then transfer the wings to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They will stay good for up to 3 months!
What if my wings come out soggy?
If your wings turn out soggy, it might be due to excess moisture before frying or insufficient resting time after the first fry. To prevent this, ensure the wings are well-dried and allow them to rest for at least 10 minutes after the first fry to escape moisture.
Are these wings friendly for special diets?
For gluten-free options, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and cornstarch. Always double-check ingredient labels to accommodate specific allergies, such as shellfish in oyster sauce—soy sauce is a great substitute!
Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings That Beat Takeout Every Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken wings with beaten egg, oyster sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, white pepper, and a splash of oil. Toss well and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the coating by whisking together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Once wings are marinated, remove excess marinade and coat wings in the dry mixture.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pot. Fry wings in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Remove and let drain on a wire rack.
- Allow wings to rest for 10 minutes to enhance crispiness.
- Increase oil temperature to 400°F (200°C) and fry wings for an additional 2-3 minutes until deep golden brown and crispy.
- Remove wings from oil, let them drain, and serve hot with dipping sauces such as sweet chili or soy-based.
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