Name: Irresistibly Crispy Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (substitute with sake, dry sherry, or white wine); 1 tablespoon minced ginger (essential for flavor); 4 cloves garlic (used in marinade and topping); 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste); 2 pounds chicken wings (prefer dark meat for tenderness); 1 cup potato starch (or cornstarch if necessary); 2 cups neutral oil for frying (canola, peanut, or vegetable oil); 2 chiles sliced (adjust quantity for spice preference); 1 teaspoon ground white pepper (adjust according to taste); 1 tablespoon Szechuan pepper-salt (for authentic flavor)

The aroma wafting through the kitchen hits you like a bite of nostalgia, transporting you straight to a bustling Chinese eatery. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Crispy Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings, a dish that effortlessly combines the crunch of fried chicken with a spicy twist that’s sure to knock your socks off. These wings are not only a huge crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties or game days, but they’re also customizable, allowing you to adjust the heat to fit your taste. Plus, the easy preparation means you can whip these up in no time, making them a fabulous option when you need something special without the fuss. Ready to elevate your home-cooking game? Let’s dive into creating these mouthwatering wings!

Why Are These Wings So Irresistible?

Crispy Texture: The perfect blend of potato starch gives these wings an unbeatable crunch that you can hear!

Bold Flavor: The marinade infused with ginger and garlic delivers a savory kick, elevating your usual fried chicken experience.

Customizable Spice: Adjust the chile quantity to suit your heat preference—go mild or amp it up!

Effortless Preparation: With just a few steps, you can have restaurant-quality wings on your table in no time.

Crowd-Pleaser: These wings are a hit at any gathering, just like my Buffalo Chicken Mac—everyone will keep coming back for more!

Get ready for a flavorful adventure that will make your kitchen the life of the party!

Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings Ingredients

For the Marinade

Shaoxing wine – Adds depth of flavor to the marinade; substitute with sake, dry sherry, or white wine.
Minced ginger – Provides warmth and spice, essential for authentically tasting Chinese salt and pepper chicken wings.
Garlic cloves – Enhances the savory flavor of the chicken; used in both the marinade and topping.
Kosher salt – For seasoning; can substitute with regular salt, adjusting to taste.

For the Chicken

Chicken wings – The main protein; prefer dark meat for tenderness, but feel free to substitute with boneless skinless thighs.
Potato starch – Creates a crispy texture when frying; cornstarch can be used as a substitute if necessary.
Neutral oil for frying – Best choices include canola, peanut, or vegetable oil, known for their high smoke point.

For the Topping

Chiles (e.g., serrano, jalapeño) – Adds heat; adjust the quantity based on your spice preference.
Ground white pepper – Provides a mild heat; feel free to adjust according to taste.
Szechuan pepper-salt – A unique seasoning mix for that authentic flavor; kosher salt and pepper can be used in a pinch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a large bowl, combine Shaoxing wine, minced ginger, and kosher salt, mixing well. Add the chicken wings, ensuring they’re fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let them marinate for at least 20 minutes in the refrigerator, or, for the best flavor, overnight if time allows. Your chicken wings should be succulent and packed with flavor after marinating.

Step 2: Prepare Oil for Frying
In a heavy skillet or wok, pour in enough neutral oil to submerge the chicken wings halfway. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers and reaches around 350°F (175°C). You’ll know it’s hot enough when small bubbles form around the edge. This preheating step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior on your Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings.

Step 3: Coat Chicken Wings
Carefully remove the marinated wings from the bowl, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Dredge each wing in potato starch, coating them evenly for an extra crunch. Shake off any excess starch before placing them aside. This coating will help create that delightful crispy crust everyone loves with salt and pepper wings.

Step 4: Fry Chicken Wings
Working in batches, gently place the coated chicken wings into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 10 minutes total, flipping halfway through to achieve a golden-brown color all around. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the wings to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Keep an eye on them for that perfect crispy look.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a separate pan, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced chiles and minced garlic, sautéing them until lightly browned and fragrant, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This step enhances the flavors and adds a spicy kick to your crispy wings. The garlic should be golden without burning for the best flavor.

Step 6: Serve Your Wings
Arrange the fried Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings on a large serving platter. Spoon the sautéed chiles and garlic over the top, then sprinkle with ground white pepper and Szechuan pepper-salt for that authentic touch. Serve immediately while they are still hot and crispy to wow your friends and family!

Expert Tips for Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Frying Method: Use a wok or heavy skillet for optimal frying; shallow frying can lead to soggy wings and oil splatter.
Cooking Time: If using boneless meat, reduce cooking time to just 3-5 minutes until golden brown—watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
Spice Control: Choose your chiles wisely! Adjust chile quantity to suit your heat preference; for no heat, substitute with sweet bell peppers.
Crispy Coating: Ensure wings are coated evenly with potato starch to achieve that irresistible crunch; shake off excess before frying.
Flavor Infusion: Marinate the wings overnight for the best flavor; the longer they sit, the tastier your Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings will be!
Topping Variations: Experiment with other toppings like scallions or sesame seeds alongside sautéed chiles and garlic for extra flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken wings up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the Shaoxing wine, ginger, garlic, and kosher salt in a bowl, add the wings, and refrigerate. Additionally, you can coat the wings with potato starch up to 3 hours before frying, keeping them covered in the fridge to maintain quality. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat your oil and fry the wings as directed. This way, you’ll save time on busy weeknights while enjoying just as delicious, restaurant-quality wings that are sure to impress.

What to Serve with Crispy Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

These delightful wings could easily steal the spotlight, but pairing them with the perfect sides will create a memorable meal experience.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, jasmine rice absorbs the flavors of the wings beautifully, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: The crunchy texture and fresh vegetables complement the wings’ spicy flavor, making for a delightful start to your meal.
Garlic Noodles: Tossed in savory sauce and minced garlic, these tender noodles provide a rich, satisfying contrast to the crispy wings.
Spicy Szechuan Noodle Salad: This zesty salad is a refreshing counterpoint, offering a mix of flavors and textures that will elevate your dining experience.
Cold Beer or Iced Tea: An ice-cold beverage, either beer or a sweet iced tea, cools the heat of the wings and brings a refreshing touch, perfect for any gathering.
Asian Slaw: A vibrant mix of cabbage and carrots with sesame dressing adds crunch and brightness while cutting through the richness of the wings.
Peanut Dipping Sauce: A creamy, slightly sweet peanut sauce can add another layer of flavor, creating a delightful dip for those succulent wings.
Fruit Platter: Fresh fruit like watermelon or mango provides a refreshing contrast, cleansing the palate and enhancing your meal’s overall enjoyment.
Mango Sorbet: For dessert, this light and fruity sorbet offers a perfect sweet finish, balancing the wings’ spice with its cool, fruity flavor.

Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings Variations

Feel free to get creative with your wings and tailor them to your taste with these delightful twists!

Drumsticks or Thighs: Substitute wings with chicken drumsticks or thighs cut into chunks for a different texture. They will be just as juicy and flavorful!
Air Fryer Option: For a lighter take, use an air fryer instead of frying them in oil. This method still ensures deliciously crispy wings without the added fat.
Flavorful Marinade: Add a tablespoon of soy sauce or oyster sauce to the marinade for a deeper umami flavor. This twist will tantalize the taste buds even further!
Chili Oil Drizzle: For extra heat, drizzle some homemade or store-bought chili oil over the finished wings. It’s a simple yet powerful way to kick up the heat!
Seasoned Salt Variation: Mix garlic powder and smoked paprika into your Szechuan pepper-salt for added depth. This will elevate the flavor profile of your chicken.
Herb Gardening: Toss in some finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley as a topping before serving. It brings a fresh, vibrant touch that is simply irresistible.
Sweet and Spicy: Mix a tablespoon of honey into the marinade for a sweet contrast against the spiciness. This combination is sure to delight those who enjoy a hint of sweetness with their heat!
Vegetarian Twist: Replace chicken with crispy tofu cubes for a plant-based version that’s packed with flavor. This swap offers a delightful texture and allows you to explore diverse flavors.

Whether you love it spicy like in my Buffalo Chicken Mac or with a mild touch, these variations ensure there’s something for everyone—enjoy your culinary journey!

How to Store and Freeze Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings

Room Temperature: Serve the wings immediately for the best taste; if left out, they can stay at room temperature for no more than 2 hours.

Fridge: Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.

Freezer: Freeze the chicken wings by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, place the wings in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes. This helps them stay crunchy while warming through.

Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for the wings?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using chicken wings as they’re juicy and tender. If you prefer, you can substitute them with boneless skinless thighs, but make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure they cook through without becoming dry.

How do I store leftover chicken wings?
Very good question! Store any leftover Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re reheating them, I suggest placing them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crunchy exterior while warming through.

Can I freeze Chinese Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings?
Yes, you can! To freeze your chicken wings, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container while they’re cool, and they should last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for that crispy finish.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the wings?
Great question! You can easily customize the heat according to your preference. Simply adjust the quantity of chiles used in the topping—if you like it mild, use fewer chiles or opt for sweet bell peppers instead. The recipe is very forgiving, and the more the merrier!

What if my wings aren’t crispy after frying?
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! If your wings aren’t crusty enough, make sure to check a couple of things: first, ensure that the oil is hot enough (around 350°F). If the oil is too cool, the wings may absorb too much oil and become soggy. Additionally, make sure you coat them evenly with potato starch and shake off any excess before frying.

Do I need to marinate the wings overnight?
While it’s ideal for enhancing the flavor, you don’t have to, especially if you’re short on time. A minimum of 20 minutes will still impart some delicious flavor thanks to the ginger and garlic, but if your schedule allows, marinating overnight is highly recommended for the best taste!