Name: Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings That Beat Takeout Every Time
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Chicken Wings (Separate into drums and flats); 1 large Egg (For coating and binding); 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (Can use vegetarian alternative); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Use low-sodium for less salt); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh garlic can be used); 1 teaspoon White Pepper (Black pepper can be substituted); Oil for frying (Choose a high smoke point oil); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour if desired); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (Enhances crispiness, no substitute); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Essential for crispiness)

“Crispy and succulent, the aroma of deep-fried wings sizzling in hot oil instantly transports me to my favorite Chinese takeout joint. This Crispy Takeout-Style Chinese Chicken Wings recipe brings that beloved flavor and texture right into my kitchen. Not only do these wings deliver a delightful crunch on the outside, but they also remain tender and juicy inside, making them a family-friendly favorite. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends, they can be prepped in just about an hour. So, why settle for greasy takeout when you can create this mouthwatering dish with just a few simple ingredients? Ready to elevate your chicken wing game? Let’s dive in!”

Why are these wings so irresistible?

Mouthwatering Flavor: The unique blend of oyster and soy sauce offers a savory depth that typical takeout wings just can’t match.
Incredible Crispiness: Thanks to the combination of flour and cornstarch, these wings achieve that perfect, crunchy texture that’ll leave you wanting more.
Quick Prep Time: In under an hour, you can whip up these delicious wings, making them ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re serving a family dinner or hosting friends for the big game, these wings are sure to be a hit! Pair them with crunchy sides or your favorite dipping sauce for a complete meal. For a delightful twist, you might enjoy them alongside some Mushroom Chicken Melts or as a hearty addition to a plate of Ginger Soy Chicken.

Chinese Chicken Wings Ingredients

For the Wings
• Chicken Wings – Main ingredient providing the body of the dish; separate into drums and flats for even cooking.
• Egg – Coats the wings and adds richness; no substitution recommended for binding.
• Oyster Sauce – Adds depth of flavor; can be replaced with a vegetarian alternative if desired.
• Soy Sauce – Provides salty flavor and an umami boost; use low-sodium for a less salty option.
• Garlic Powder – For aromatic flavor; fresh garlic can be used, but adjust the quantity accordingly.
• White Pepper – Adds a subtle spice; black pepper can be used as a substitute.
• Oil – Used for frying; choose an oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil.

For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – Helps form a crispy coating; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Cornstarch – Enhances the crispiness of the coating; no direct substitute, but more flour can be used in a pinch.
• Baking Powder – Creates texture and helps achieve a crispy crust; do not skip this ingredient.

Enjoy making your crispy Chinese Chicken Wings at home—they’re bound to become a family favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Takeout-Style Chinese Chicken Wings

Step 1: Marinate Wings
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings with egg, oyster sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, white pepper, and a drizzle of oil. Use your hands or a spatula to ensure the wings are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the wings marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare Batter
While the wings are marinating, grab a separate bowl and whisk together all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. This mixture will provide the crispy coating for your Chinese chicken wings. Once the wings have marinated, remove them from the refrigerator and dredge each wing evenly in the flour mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated for that perfect crunch.

Step 3: First Fry
Heat a deep pot or fryer with vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the battered chicken wings in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the wings and place them on a wire rack to drain any excess oil, keeping them crispy.

Step 4: Rest and Double Fry
Allow the fried wings to rest for at least 15 minutes on the wire rack. This resting period lets moisture escape, enhancing crispiness. After the wings have rested, heat the oil to 400°F (200°C). Fry the wings a second time for 1-2 minutes, just until they are re-crisped, giving your crispy takeout-style Chinese chicken wings that irresistible crunch.

Expert Tips for Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings

Rest for Crispiness: Allow wings to rest after frying; this helps moisture escape, ensuring they stay crispy longer.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep a close eye on the oil temperature; maintaining 350°F during the first fry prevents soggy wings.
Batch Frying Advice: Fry wings in small batches to maintain oil temperature; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and reduce crispiness.
Perfecting the Coating: Make sure each wing is fully coated in the flour mixture to achieve that delightful crunch when preparing your Chinese chicken wings.
Double Frying Benefits: Don’t skip the double frying—this extra step makes a world of difference in achieving that fantastic, crispy texture you love!

Make Ahead Options

These crispy Chinese chicken wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken wings, coating them in the flavorful mixture of egg, oyster sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, white pepper, and oil, up to 24 hours in advance. Just ensure they’re stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their bold flavors. Additionally, you can prepare the batter (flour, cornstarch, and baking powder) and keep it separate until you’re ready to cook, which can be done up to 3 days beforehand. When you’re ready to serve, simply dredge the marinated wings in the batter and fry them as instructed for crispy results that are just as delicious as freshly made!

What to Serve with Crispy Takeout-Style Chinese Chicken Wings

Enjoy a delightful experience as you create a full meal that enhances the savory flavors of your crispy wings.

Carrot and Celery Sticks: Fresh and crunchy, these veggies provide a lovely contrast to the juicy wings, making for a refreshing bite with every taste.
Sweet and Sour Sauce: Drizzling some homemade or store-bought sweet and sour sauce elevates the dish’s flavor profile with tangy sweetness, perfectly complementing the savory wings.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice serves as a wonderful base to soak up flavors from the wings and any dipping sauces.
Garlic Fried Rice: Packed with flavor, garlic fried rice adds a hearty touch to your plate. The richness of garlic amplifies the wings’ deliciousness.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup brings comforting notes to the table, balancing the richness of fried food with its savory depth.
Sesame Noodles: Cool and slightly tangy, sesame noodles pair beautifully, bringing in a delightful texture and flavor that contrasts perfectly with the crispy wings.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, a chilled cucumber salad with a hint of sesame oil offers a crisp, palate-cleansing bite alongside the rich wings.
Chili Garlic Sauce: For the spice lovers, serve a side of chili garlic sauce to add a fiery kick, making the wings even more exciting with every bite.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Pair your meal with a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade or iced tea to cleanse your palate and keep the meal light and invigorating.

Chinese Chicken Wings Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these crispy chicken wings, enhancing flavors or accommodating dietary needs!

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour for a fiery twist. Perfect for those who crave bold flavor!
Herb Infusion: Mix dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the flour for an aromatic touch. This adds a fragrant note that elevates each bite.
Sesame Crunch: Incorporate toasted sesame seeds into the batter for an extra layer of flavor and delightful crunch.
Garlic Lovers: Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder for a more intense garlic flavor. The aroma alone will beckon family to the table!
Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and cornstarch for a crispy texture everyone can enjoy.
Saucy Twist: Try marinating the wings in a mix of hoisin and chili garlic sauce for an exciting flavor boost. This will transform your wings into a sweet and spicy treat!
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken wings for tofu or cauliflower bites. Just coat and fry them using the same method for a delightful alternative.
Sweet Toggle: Brush wings with a honey or maple glaze before the second fry for a sweet, sticky finish reminiscent of takeout favorites.

Get inspired and explore these variations to make the recipe your own. For even more flavors, why not try these wings alongside some Cowboy Butter Chicken or toss them in a zesty Fiery Chicken Ramen? Enjoy the culinary adventure!

How to Store and Freeze Chinese Chicken Wings

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Chinese chicken wings fresh out of the fryer. If left out, consume them within 2 hours to maintain quality and safety.

Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezer: Freeze wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheating after freezing retains their crispy texture.

Reheating: To reheat, use an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, checking for crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the wings soggy.

Crispy Takeout-Style Chinese Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken wings for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for chicken wings that are plump and have a fresh appearance, without any dark spots or discoloration. I recommend organic or free-range wings for superior flavor and texture. When possible, separate drums and flats for even cooking.

What is the best way to store leftover chicken wings?
Very! Once cooled, place leftover wings in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation, which can affect their texture.

Can I freeze the crispy chicken wings?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen solid (about 2-3 hours), transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. This method helps preserve their crispiness!

Why did my chicken wings turn out soggy?
Ah, let’s troubleshoot this! Soggy wings can result from overcrowding the fryer, causing the temperature to drop. Ensure you fry in small batches at the recommended temperatures: 350°F for the first fry and 400°F for the second. Additionally, allow the wings to rest to let moisture escape for the best crunch.

Are these wings suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! To cater to gluten-free diets, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend while ensuring that the soy sauce is also gluten-free. The cornstarch remains a perfect addition for that crispy coating.

Can pets safely eat these wings?
Not recommended! These wings contain seasoning and sauces like soy and oyster sauce that can be harmful to pets. Always keep your culinary creations to the family table and provide your pets with food specifically designed for their dietary needs.