If you’re looking for an easy and delicious chicken wings recipe, these honey garlic chicken wings are the perfect choice. They are crispy, flavorful, and coated in a sticky, sweet, and savory sauce that’s absolutely irresistible. Let’s dive into how to make these mouthwatering wings at home!
Ingredients
- 500g chicken wings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tsp soy sauce
- 3 tsp cornstarch
- 1 egg white
- ½ tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tsp honey
- 3 tsp tomato sauce (ketchup)
- 4 tsp water
- 1½ tsp unsalted butter
- Toasted sesame seeds, for garnishing
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
- Season the wings:
- In a large bowl, season the 500g of chicken wings with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Marinate:
- Add 2 tsp soy sauce, 3 tsp cornstarch, and 1 egg white to the bowl. Mix well to ensure all the wings are evenly coated. Let the wings marinate for at least 15-20 minutes. This will help the wings develop a nice crispy texture when cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Wings
- Heat the oil:
- Heat enough oil in a large frying pan or deep fryer to cover the wings. The oil should be heated to about 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the wings:
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated wings to the pan. Fry the wings in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain the wings:
- Remove the wings from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 3: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce
- Prepare the sauce mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine ½ tbsp oyster sauce, 2 tsp honey, 3 tsp tomato sauce, and 4 tsp water. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined.
- Cook the sauce:
- In a large skillet or wok, melt 1½ tsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, pour in the sauce mixture. Cook the sauce for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it starts to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Coat the Wings in Sauce
- Add the wings to the sauce:
- Add the fried chicken wings to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the wings in the sauce until they are evenly coated.
- Cook briefly:
- Cook the wings in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to fully coat the wings and become sticky.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle the coated wings with toasted sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Serve hot:
- Serve the honey garlic chicken wings hot as an appetizer or main dish. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them on their own.
Cook’s Notes
- Crispy Wings: For extra crispy wings, you can double-fry them. Fry the wings once for 5-6 minutes, remove them from the oil, let them rest for a few minutes, then fry them again for another 3-4 minutes until crispy.
- Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer before adding the wings.
- Spicy Variation: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicy kick.
Variations
Sticky BBQ Wings
Replace the honey and tomato sauce with BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor.
Ginger Honey Garlic Wings
Add freshly grated ginger to the sauce for an extra zing.
Honey Sriracha Wings
Add sriracha to the sauce mixture for a sweet and spicy twist.
Sweet and Sour Wings
Add a splash of vinegar and extra honey to create a sweet and tangy sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I bake the wings instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the wings at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes or until crispy, flipping them halfway through. Then, toss them in the sauce.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
3. Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.
4. What can I serve with these wings?
These wings pair well with steamed rice, a side salad, or as part of a larger appetizer spread.
5. How can I make the sauce spicier?
Add chili flakes, sriracha, or hot sauce to the sauce mixture for a spicier version.
These honey garlic chicken wings are a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and sticky goodness. Whether you’re making them for a party, game night, or just a casual dinner, they’re sure to be a hit. With their crispy exterior and flavorful sauce, these wings are bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!