If you’re searching for the ultimate crave-worthy appetizer, Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings are about to become your new obsession. Perfectly crunchy on the outside and juicy within, these wings are tossed in a fragrant blend of garlic, chilies, and green onions that delivers the perfect punch of heat and savory flavor. Whether you’re throwing a lively party, a cozy movie night, or just treating yourself to a little homemade indulgence, these restaurant-worthy wings are guaranteed to delight everyone at your table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes these wings so irresistible is the perfect harmony of simple but purposeful ingredients. Each element, from the spices to the cornstarch, brings its own magic to create that classic taste and signature crisp texture of Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings.
- Chicken Wings: Split and trimmed for even frying and maximum crunch; the main event!
- Salt: The essential seasoning that sharpens all the savory notes.
- Black Pepper: Gives the wings an earthy, gentle heat that pairs well with the aromatics.
- Chinese Five-Spice Powder: Adds a deeply aromatic warmth with hints of star anise and clove.
- Garlic Powder: For a base layer of flavor that infuses the wings themselves, not just the topping.
- White Pepper: Delivers that subtle, classic peppery zing you instantly recognize in Chinese dishes.
- Cornstarch: The key to insanely crispy, feather-light coating; don’t skip this!
- Vegetable Oil: Use a neutral oil for deep-frying that lets the spices shine.
- Minced Garlic: Fresh garlic brings an irresistible punch that defines this dish.
- Red Chili: Use fresh for bright pops of heat and color in the final toss.
- Green Onions: Sprinkle in freshness and a pop of vibrant green.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): Turn up the spice level if you’re feeling bold!
How to Make Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings
Step 1: Prep and Season the Wings
First things first: pat your chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is so simple, but it makes all the difference for ultra-crispiness, so don’t skip it! Once your wings are dry, toss them in a large bowl with salt, black pepper, Chinese five-spice powder, garlic powder, and white pepper. Give them a good mix so every morsel gets a warm, aromatic blanket of spice.
Step 2: Dredge in Cornstarch
Next, evenly coat the wings with cornstarch by dredging each one in, making sure they’re generously covered but shaking off any excess. Cornstarch is the secret weapon for that restaurant-style crispy skin, and helps the flavors stick with every bite.
Step 3: Fry to Crunchy Perfection
In a deep skillet or wok, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. Fry the wings in batches (don’t crowd your pan!) for 8 to 10 minutes, until they reach a glorious golden brown and are cooked through. Transfer each batch onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain while you finish the rest. For even crunchier results, you can double-fry by cooking once for 6 minutes, letting them rest, then frying again for 2 to 3 minutes more.
Step 4: Toss with Aromatics
Wipe out your pan and add 1 tablespoon of fresh oil over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the minced garlic, sliced red chili, green onions, and optional red pepper flakes for about a minute, just until fragrant. Quickly return the crispy chicken wings to the pan and toss to coat with the sizzling aromatics—this is where the magic happens, infusing every wing with a burst of irresistible flavor.
Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy
Plate the Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings immediately while they’re still piping hot and crackly. Gather everyone around, because these wings truly are at their best fresh from the pan—get ready for some serious compliments!
How to Serve Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings
Garnishes
Top each platter of wings with a heaping spoonful of the stir-fried garlic, chilies, and green onions. A sprinkle of extra sliced green onions or a few fresh chili rings will add gorgeous color, a touch of freshness, and another subtle kick. Don’t shy away from a quick scatter of cracked black pepper for even more aromatic pop!
Side Dishes
Thanks to their bold, crave-inducing flavors, Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings work perfectly alongside simple steamed jasmine rice, quick stir-fried veggies, or even a cooling cucumber salad. If you’re planning an appetizer spread, pair these wings with other Asian-inspired small plates like wontons or scallion pancakes for a dynamite combo.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive gathering, pile the wings high on a rustic wooden board and let guests help themselves with chopsticks. Or, serve over a bed of shredded lettuce with little dipping bowls of chili oil, sweet soy, or sesame seeds for interactive fun. For a fun twist, try portioning in small paper take-out boxes for perfect game day finger food—just pile in, garnish, and hand out to your hungry crowd!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftover Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings (they disappear fast!), let them cool completely before refrigerating. Pop them in an airtight container and they’ll keep well for up to 3 days. The wings stay flavorful, but expect the coating to lose a bit of crispness after chilling.
Freezing
Looking to freeze for later? Arrange wings on a baking sheet in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months this way. For best results, freeze before tossing in the aromatics, and add fresh garlic, chili, and green onions after reheating.
Reheating
To bring back their signature crunch, reheat the wings in an oven or air fryer at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes until hot and re-crisped. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make them soggy. Give them a quick toss with freshly sautéed aromatics before serving for that classic Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings sizzle!
FAQs
Can I bake Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings instead of frying?
Absolutely! For a lighter version, arrange the coated wings on a greased baking rack over a sheet pan, spray lightly with oil, and bake at 425°F for 30 to 35 minutes, flipping halfway. The skin won’t be quite as shatteringly crisp as frying, but you’ll still get delicious results.
Is there a substitute for Chinese five-spice powder?
If you don’t have five-spice powder, you can use a blend of ground star anise, cloves, cinnamon, fennel seed, and a touch of black pepper. Even a small pinch of each will bring you very close to the authentic flavor profile you want in Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings.
How spicy are these wings?
The heat level is easily adjusted! Using both fresh chilies and red pepper flakes delivers some kick, but you can scale back (or leave out entirely) for milder wings. If you have spice lovers, double up on the chili for wings that really pack a punch.
What makes the wings so crispy?
Cornstarch is the magic ingredient for achieving that ultra-light, crispy crust. Patting the chicken dry first and frying at the right temperature also make a big difference, as does the option to double-fry if you want that next-level crunch.
Are Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you double-check your spices and five-spice powder for hidden gluten, everything in this recipe is naturally gluten-free and perfect for anyone avoiding wheat.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try these homemade Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings, it’ll be hard to go back to takeout. Whether you’re making a quick snack for yourself or feeding a hungry group of friends, these wings deliver tons of flavor, plenty of crunch, and endless smiles. Give them a whirl next time you’re craving some crispy, spicy fun—you’re going to love every bite!
Print
Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings are a delightful combination of crispy fried wings tossed in fragrant spices and aromatics. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, these wings are bursting with savory flavors and a hint of heat.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, split and tips removed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 cup cornstarch
- vegetable oil for frying
For the Aromatics:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili, finely sliced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry and season with salt, black pepper, five-spice powder, garlic powder, and white pepper. Dredge in cornstarch.
- Fry the Chicken Wings: Heat oil to 350°F, fry wings until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a clean pan, sauté garlic, chili, green onions, and red pepper flakes.
- Toss Wings: Return fried wings to the pan, toss with aromatics. Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double-fry the wings.
- Adjust chili amount for desired spice level.
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