Spicy Chinese Chicken Wings Recipe

Posted by Fitzroy Neville June 25, 2024

Background and History

Spicy Chinese Chicken Wings are a popular appetizer and snack known for their bold flavors and satisfying heat. This dish is influenced by the rich culinary traditions of Chinese cuisine, particularly the use of spices and sauces to create layers of flavor. These wings are often enjoyed during gatherings and celebrations, offering a delicious combination of sweet, savory, and spicy tastes.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken wings
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Serves

  • 4 servings

Time

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

  • In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey, Sriracha sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and Chinese five-spice powder. Mix well.

Marinate the Chicken Wings

  • Add the chicken wings to the bowl with the marinade. Toss to coat evenly.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2-3 hours for better flavor.

Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Bake the Chicken Wings

  • Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the marinated chicken wings on the rack in a single layer.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Caramelize the Wings

  • In the last 5 minutes of baking, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) to help caramelize the wings and make them crispy.

Garnish and Serve

  • Remove the wings from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.
  • Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of Sriracha sauce to control the spiciness according to your preference.
  • For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken wings overnight.
  • These wings can also be grilled instead of baked for a smoky flavor.

Allergy Warning

  • Contains soy (soy sauce and hoisin sauce).
  • Sesame oil may cause allergic reactions in those with sesame allergies.

FAQs about Spicy Chinese Chicken Wings and Cooking Tips

What makes Chinese chicken wings yellow?

Chinese chicken wings often get their yellow color from turmeric, a spice commonly used in marinades and sauces. Turmeric adds both color and a subtle earthy flavor to the dish.

What are Chinese wings made of?

Chinese wings are typically made from chicken wings marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and various spices. They are then baked, fried, or grilled to perfection.

What are spicy chicken wings called?

Spicy chicken wings are often referred to as “hot wings” or “buffalo wings” in Western cuisine, while in Chinese cuisine, they may simply be called “spicy chicken wings” or use specific regional names depending on the sauce and spices used.

How to get more flavor in chicken wings?

To get more flavor in chicken wings, marinate them for several hours or overnight in a mixture of spices, sauces, and acids like vinegar or citrus juice. Cooking them at a high temperature can also help to caramelize the marinade, enhancing the flavor.

What is the secret to perfect wings?

The secret to perfect wings is to cook them at a high temperature to achieve crispy skin while ensuring they remain juicy inside. Using a wire rack during baking or frying at the right temperature helps maintain this balance.

What is the best method for cooking wings?

The best method for cooking wings is subjective, but baking, frying, and grilling are popular choices. Baking on a wire rack allows fat to drain away, resulting in crispy skin, while frying gives a consistently crispy texture, and grilling adds a smoky flavor.

Why add flour to chicken wings?

Adding flour to chicken wings helps create a crispy coating when baked or fried. The flour absorbs moisture from the wings and helps form a crunchy crust.

What gives chicken the most flavor?

Marinades, brines, and rubs give chicken the most flavor. Ingredients like garlic, ginger, soy sauce, citrus juices, and a variety of spices deeply penetrate the meat, enhancing its taste.

How to make chicken taste better?

To make chicken taste better, marinate it for several hours, use fresh herbs and spices, and cook it at the right temperature to avoid drying it out. Resting the chicken after cooking also helps retain its juices.

How do you increase chicken flavor?

Increase chicken flavor by using a flavorful marinade, seasoning it generously, and cooking it with methods that enhance its natural taste, such as grilling, roasting, or slow cooking. Additionally, basting the chicken with its own juices or a sauce during cooking can amplify the flavor.

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Fitzroy Neville, the culinary maestro behind this site, boasts the impressive title of Cooking Prodigy. With a natural flair for the culinary arts, Fitzroy brings innovation and expertise to the world of pet cuisine. His site is a haven for pet owners seeking imaginative and nutritious recipes to delight their furry companions. Fitzroy's passion for transforming pet meals into culinary experiences is evident in the creative and delectable content he shares. For those looking to elevate their pets' dining experience, Fitzroy Neville's site is a testament to the artistry and skill of a true cooking prodigy dedicated to pampering our four-legged friends.