Name: Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings That Beat Takeout Every Time
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Chicken Wings (Use fresh or thawed for best results.); 1 large Egg (Acts as a binder for the marinade.); 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (Substitutable with soy sauce.); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Opt for low-sodium varieties.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can be used.); 1 teaspoon White Pepper (Black pepper can be a substitute.); 2 tablespoons Oil (Choose a neutral oil like vegetable oil.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour can be substituted.); 1 cup Cornstarch (Consider rice flour for extra crunch.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Ensure it's fresh for the best results.)

While gathering with friends for a casual night in, the conversation shifted to the treasure that is perfectly crispy wings. That’s when it hit me—there’s nothing quite like the freedom of recreating your favorite takeout at home. With this recipe for Crispy Takeout-Style Chinese Chicken Wings, you can savor the delight of restaurant-quality bites without stepping outside! Crafted with a savory marinade and expertly fried for extra crunch, these wings are not only quick to prepare—ready in just 40 minutes—but also ideal for any gathering, from game nights to family dinners. Plus, they pack a flavor punch that beats fast food any day. What’s your favorite dipping sauce for wings? Let’s dive into this crispy adventure together!

Why Are These Wings So Crispy?

Crispy Texture: The double-frying technique gives these wings an irresistible crunch that you’ll crave.

Savory Marinade: The blend of oyster sauce and soy sauce enhances flavor, ensuring every bite is deliciously satisfying.

Quick and Easy: In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a feast that’s perfect for any occasion—hassle-free and totally rewarding!

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a game night with friends, these wings are sure to impress and get everyone talking.

Versatile Serving Options: Pair with carrot and celery sticks, or take it up a notch with your favorite dipping sauces like sweet chili for an extra zing!

With a recipe this good, you’ll never want takeout again. If you’re interested in more delectable chicken recipes, check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken for something creamy and comforting!

Chinese Chicken Wings Ingredients

For the Wings

Chicken Wings – Main protein source; use fresh or thawed for the best results.
Large Egg – Acts as a binder, ensuring the marinade clings well to each wing.
Oyster Sauce – Adds a rich umami flavor; can be substituted with soy sauce if needed.
Soy Sauce – Provides a salty depth; opt for low-sodium varieties for a healthier option.
Garlic Powder – Enhances seasoning; fresh minced garlic can deliver a stronger flavor.
White Pepper – Introduces a subtle spiciness; black pepper can serve as an alternative.
Oil – Utilized in the marinade for better adhesion; choose a neutral oil like vegetable oil.

For the Coating

All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the coating for a delightful crunch; gluten-free flour works as a substitute.
Cornstarch – Crucial for achieving that crispy texture; consider using rice flour for additional crunch.
Baking Powder – Helps create an airy crust; ensure that it’s fresh for optimal results.

Creating these crispy Chinese chicken wings at home will make you forget all about takeout!

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

Step 1: Marinate the Wings
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings with the egg, oyster sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, white pepper, and oil. Mix thoroughly until each wing is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld and the wings to absorb the savory marinade.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating
While the wings are marinating, grab a separate bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. This dry mixture is crucial for creating that crispy coating for your Chinese chicken wings. Once the marinating time is up, take the wings out and toss them in this dry mixture, ensuring an even and generous coat on every piece.

Step 3: Heat the Oil
In a deep pot, pour in enough oil to achieve approximately 1½ inches in depth. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a frying thermometer for accuracy. While the oil is heating, prepare your area for frying by setting up a cooling rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil from the cooked wings.

Step 4: Fry the Wings
Carefully lower the coated chicken wings into the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown and reach a crispy texture. Keeping an eye on the temperature will help maintain that perfect batter consistency.

Step 5: Drain the Excess Oil
Once the wings are beautifully golden and crispy, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to the wire rack. This allows any excess oil to drain off, crucial for retaining that coveted crunch. Let the wings rest for about 10 minutes; this step enhances their texture before the final fry.

Step 6: Double Fry for Extra Crispiness
After the wings have rested, increase the oil temperature to 400°F (204°C). Fry the wings again for an additional 1-2 minutes, ensuring they stay crispy without overcooking. Watch closely as they sizzle; they should puff up slightly and turn an even deeper golden color.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the wings are double-fried to perfection, remove them from the oil and place them on the wire rack for a brief moment. Serve your crispy takeout-style Chinese chicken wings hot, and consider pairing them with carrot and celery sticks along with your favorite dipping sauces for a delightful flavor combination.

What to Serve with Crispy Takeout-Style Chinese Chicken Wings

These delectable chicken wings are perfect for an unforgettable dining experience, filled with flavors and textures that’ll have everyone reaching for more.

Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy veggies and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the rich flavors of the wings beautifully.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, rice allows the boldness of the chicken wings to shine while soaking up any dipping sauces.
Garlic Fried Green Beans: Sautéed to perfection, these beans add a crisp, garlicky touch, enhancing the Asian-inspired flavors of your meal.
Sweet Chili Sauce: A perfect partner for dipping! The sweetness and heat cut through the richness of the wings for an exciting flavor explosion.
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A light, zesty cucumber salad with vinegar and herbs offers a refreshing palate cleanse between bites of crispy wings.
Asian Beer or Plum Wine: Complement the meal with a cold Asian beer or aromatic plum wine, both enhancing the flavors of the wings while adding a festive touch.
Sesame Noodles: These noodles have a nutty flavor and silky texture that pair delightfully with the crispy wings, making them a satisfying side.
Fruit Salad with Citrus: A vibrant fruit salad with a hint of citrus can add a refreshing sweetness while brightening the overall meal.

Elevate your dining experience with these perfect pairings to create a delicious feast for any occasion!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Takeout-Style Chinese Chicken Wings are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the wings in the savory mixture of egg, oyster sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, white pepper, and oil up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Additionally, the dry coating mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply coat the marinated wings and fry them as indicated in the recipe. Following these prep steps ensures your wings are just as delicious and crispy as if made fresh!

Expert Tips for Crispy Chinese Chicken Wings

Double Frying: Ensure you double fry the wings for that unbeatable crunch. The first fry cooks the meat, while the second fry crisps up the coating to perfection.

Marinade Time: Allow at least 30 minutes for your wings to marinate. This helps the flavors infuse deeply, making your Chinese chicken wings irresistibly tasty.

Mixing the Coating: For the best texture, whisk your dry ingredients well. This prevents clumps and ensures an even, crispy coating on every wing.

Watch the Oil Temperature: Using a thermometer is key; if the oil is too hot, the coating may burn while the meat remains undercooked. Aim for a steady 350°F (175°C) during frying.

Resting Period: Don’t skip the resting time after the first fry! This allows excess moisture to escape, resulting in a crispier texture upon the second fry.

Storage Alert: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in an air fryer for that freshly-fried taste!

How to Store and Freeze Chinese Chicken Wings

Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Make sure they cool completely before sealing.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To regain their crispy texture, reheat wings in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method helps restore their crunch, making them taste freshly made.

Preparation Tip: When prepping in advance, consider marinating the wings and frying them right before serving for optimal crispiness and flavor.

Chinese Chicken Wings Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these wings, allowing your taste buds to explore new flavors and textures!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend and replace soy sauce with Tamari for a crispy delight without gluten.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade for wings that pack a punch. You might even consider serving them with a cooling dip to balance the heat.
Honey Garlic: Drizzle honey over the cooked wings after frying for a sweet contrast that complements the savory flavor. This combination will delight those who enjoy a sweet-savory profile.
Herbed Twist: Toss in finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the coating mixture for added flavor and a fresh touch. The herbs will not only enhance the taste but also add a lovely pop of color!
Asian BBQ: Brush the wings with your favorite Asian BBQ sauce before serving for a tangy, smoky flavor. If you love tangy flavors, consider pairing with a side of pickled vegetables for some extra crunch.
Lemon Zest: A hint of lemon zest in the marinade brightens the flavor profile and adds a refreshing taste to every bite. Just imagine that zesty aroma wafting through the kitchen!
Double Flavor: Split your batch! Marinate half in traditional flavors and the other half with ingredients like miso paste or gochujang for a Korean twist—now that’s double the fun!
Naked Wings: If you’re looking for a healthier option, skip the coating altogether. Marinate and bake the wings for a lighter version that’s still packed with flavor.

With these variations, whether you want something zesty or want to elevate the crunch, there’s a delightful option for everyone! And if you want to explore other chicken delights, how about whipping up my Honey Pepper Chicken or giving a go at Sticky Garlic Chicken? Let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

Crispy Takeout-Style Chinese Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken wings for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken wings, look for fresh, plump wings without dark spots or signs of freezer burn. If you opt for frozen wings, make sure they are completely thawed before marinating. Fresh wings will yield a juicier and more flavorful result!

What is the best way to store leftovers?
You can store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just let them cool completely before sealing to keep them fresh. If you want to maintain their crispiness, consider reheating them in an air fryer!

Can I freeze leftover wings?
Yes, you can! To freeze your crispy Chinese chicken wings, first arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months this way without losing much quality. When you want to enjoy them again, remember to reheat them in an air fryer for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore their crunch!

What if my wings aren’t crispy enough after frying?
If your wings don’t reach the desired crispiness, don’t worry! Let them rest for about 10 minutes after the first fry, then double fry them at 400°F (204°C) for a couple of minutes. This second fry helps achieve that crunchy perfection you’re looking for—it’s a game changer!

Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Very! If you have dietary considerations, such as gluten intolerance, you can use gluten-free flour and cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour. If you’re allergic to shellfish, simply substitute the oyster sauce with more soy sauce or a hoisin sauce for added flavor. Just make sure to adjust the salt levels accordingly!

How should I serve my crispy chicken wings?
These wings are best served hot and fresh, paired with fresh carrot and celery sticks. For a little extra flavor, consider dipping them in sauces like sweet chili, soy sauce, or even ranch dressing. It’s all about making it a fun and flavorful experience with those you’re sharing them with!