Chinese Fried Chicken Wings Recipe

Have you ever bitten into a perfectly crispy chicken wing, one that’s golden brown on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor? That’s exactly what you get with Chinese fried chicken wings. These wings are a takeout favorite, loved for their unique combination of crispiness, bold marinades, and that irresistible umami flavor.

I still remember the first time I tried making them at home. I thought, How hard can frying wings be? Spoiler: I underestimated the importance of double-frying. My first batch came out soggy, and let’s just say it wasn’t a crowd-pleaser. But after some trial and error, and a little help from tips like those in this guide to double-frying chicken, I finally nailed it. Now, I’m here to make sure you don’t make the same mistakes!

These wings are perfect for parties, game nights, or just satisfying your cravings. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make if you follow the right steps. Pair them with a fresh side like this zesty quinoa salad to balance out the rich flavors, and you’ve got a meal that’s bound to impress.

What Makes Chinese Fried Chicken Wings Unique?

When you think of chicken wings, you might picture your typical buffalo-style wings. But Chinese fried chicken wings? They’re in a league of their own. Here’s what makes them stand out:

• Double-Frying Technique: This is the secret to achieving that perfect crunch. The first fry cooks the wings, while the second fry crisps them up to golden perfection.
• Bold Marinades: Chinese wings are infused with flavors like soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, garlic, ginger, and Chinese five-spice. This combination creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
• Versatility: Whether you like them sweet, spicy, or savory, you can easily customize these wings to suit your taste.

The crispy texture comes from the use of cornstarch in the coating, a technique that outshines traditional flour-based batters. And trust me, once you’ve tasted the umami-packed flavor of these wings, you’ll never go back to regular fried chicken.

If you’re curious about other creative wing recipes, check out this jerk chicken wings recipe for a spicy twist or try the flavorful chicken wing dry rub recipe.

Ingredients for Chinese Fried Chicken Wings

One of the best things about this recipe is that it uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Core Ingredients

• Chicken Wings: Drumettes and flats are ideal for even cooking.
• Marinade: Soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, oyster sauce, garlic, ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder.
• Coating: A mix of cornstarch and all-purpose flour for that signature crispiness.
• Oil: Neutral oils like vegetable or canola are best for frying.

Optional Add-Ins

• Chili flakes for a spicy twist.
• Honey or sugar to add a touch of sweetness.
• Green onions for garnish and extra flavor.

How to Make Chinese Fried Chicken Wings

Making Chinese fried chicken wings is straightforward, but each step is crucial for achieving restaurant-quality results.

Combine soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, minced garlic, grated ginger, and five-spice powder in a large bowl. Add the chicken wings, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have Shaoxing wine, dry sherry or rice vinegar are good substitutes.

In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, and a pinch of salt. Remove the wings from the marinade and dredge them in the coating mixture, ensuring an even layer.

Why This Matters: The cornstarch creates a light, crisp crust that holds up during frying.

Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F. Fry the wings in batches for 5–6 minutes, then remove and let them rest on a wire rack. Increase the oil temperature to 375°F and fry again for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

This double-frying technique is a game-changer—it’s what gives the wings their signature crunch.

Tips for Perfect Chinese Fried Chicken Wings

Making restaurant-quality Chinese fried chicken wings at home is all about nailing the details. Here are some tips to ensure your wings turn out crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor:

The secret to the crispiness of these wings lies in the double-frying method.

• The first fry cooks the chicken thoroughly.
• The second fry crisps up the coating and locks in all the flavors.
  Tip: Let the wings rest between frying to allow the crust to firm up.

• Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F for the first fry and 375°F for the second fry.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will drop the oil temperature and make the wings soggy.

Marinating the wings for at least 2 hours (or overnight) infuses the meat with deep, savory notes. Don’t rush this step—it’s worth the wait!

Cornstarch is lighter than flour and creates a crispier crust. If you want extra crunch, mix in a bit of baking powder with the coating.

For more crispy side options, consider pairing these wings with air fryer garlic Parmesan fries.

Variations of Chinese Fried Chicken Wings

One of the reasons I love this recipe is how easy it is to tweak. Here are a few fun variations to try:

• Toss the fried wings in a sauce made from honey, soy sauce, and chili flakes for a balance of sweetness and heat.
• Add a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy twist.

• In a pan, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, and a dash of sugar.
• Cook until the mixture reduces to a thick glaze, then toss the wings to coat.

• After frying, sprinkle the wings with a mix of salt, white pepper, and crushed Sichuan peppercorns.
• Add thinly sliced garlic and fresh chilies for an authentic touch.

• If you’re looking for a healthier option, air-fry the wings at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• While the texture won’t be identical to deep-fried, it’s still crispy and delicious.

Serving Suggestions for Chinese Fried Chicken Wings

These wings are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

Side Dishes

• Steamed Rice: A simple, neutral base to complement the bold flavors of the wings.
• Fried Rice: Try pairing the wings with this zesty quinoa salad for a healthier option.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas tossed with garlic and sesame oil are great choices.

Drinks

• Cold Beer: A crisp lager or IPA pairs beautifully with the savory wings.
• Iced Green Tea: The subtle bitterness cuts through the richness of the chicken.
• Citrus Mocktail: A refreshing blend of lime, mint, and sparkling water adds a bright finish to the meal.

Desserts

After indulging in these wings, a sweet treat can be the perfect way to end your meal. Try this pumpkin muffins recipe or go for a decadent sticky toffee pudding.

FAQs About Chinese Fried Chicken Wings

Why do Chinese fried chicken wings use cornstarch?

Cornstarch creates a lighter, crispier coating than flour. It’s also a staple in Asian cooking for its ability to create the perfect texture.

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, but thaw them completely before marinating to ensure they absorb the flavors evenly.

What’s the best oil for frying chicken wings?

Neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil are ideal for deep frying. For more insights, check out this guide on the best oil for frying chicken.

Can I make these wings ahead of time?

Absolutely! Fry the wings once, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, do the second fry to crisp them up.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration

• Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Freeze cooked wings (without sauce) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before frying or baking.

Reheating

• Oven: Reheat wings in a 375°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 400°F for 5–7 minutes for a quick and crispy finish.

Final Thoughts

Chinese fried chicken wings are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They’re crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor—everything you want in a wing. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying game night, or simply craving takeout-style wings at home, this recipe delivers every time.

What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can keep it simple with the classic marinade or spice things up with sweet and spicy or garlic soy variations. Pair it with sides like fried rice or stir-fried veggies, and you’ve got a meal that’s bound to impress.

So, fire up your fryer (or air fryer) and give these wings a try. Don’t forget to share your creations—I’d love to hear about your favorite twists on this recipe. Happy cooking ! 🥘