Name: Crispy New York Style Chinese Takeout Wings You'll Love
Prep time: 240 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 265 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Chicken wings (split into drumettes and flats); 1/2 cup Soy sauce (tamari for gluten-free option); 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or apple cider vinegar for non-alcoholic); 4 cloves Minced garlic (freshly minced preferred); 1 teaspoon Ground white pepper (black pepper is a substitute); 1 teaspoon Five-spice powder (or substitute mix of cinnamon and cloves); 1 teaspoon Salt (adjust based on dietary preferences); 1 tablespoon Sugar (or honey/agave as alternatives); 1 cup Cornstarch (for light, crispy coating); 1/2 cup All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blends); 1 teaspoon Baking powder; 4 cups Neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut); 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Onion powder; 1 teaspoon Paprika (for smokiness); 1 teaspoon MSG (optional for umami flavor)

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There’s an electric thrill in the air when game day approaches, and nothing fits the mood quite like a plate of crispy wings. Imagine the crunchy exterior giving way to juicy, flavorful chicken on the inside – it’s a bite that never disappoints. I’ve spent countless hours trying to replicate that iconic New York Style Chinese takeout experience, and I’m thrilled to share my take on these irresistible wings with you!

These New York Style Chinese takeout wings are an easy solution to your flavor cravings, delivering a perfect balance of savory garlic and umami from soy sauce and five-spice powder. With a double-frying technique that guarantees they’re crispy all the way around, these wings will elevate any gathering or cozy night in. It’s time to ditch the fast food and bring the excitement of takeout home. Ready to dive into a delicious cooking adventure? Let’s get started!

Why are New York Style Chinese Takeout Wings irresistible?

Crunchy exterior, juicy interior: The double-frying technique is the secret to achieving wings that are both satisfyingly crispy and tender within.

Bursting with umami: The flavorful marinade, infused with soy sauce and five-spice powder, brings an authentic taste of takeout.

Quick and easy: With straightforward instructions, anyone can impress their family and friends with these delicious wings.

Versatile flavors: Customize your wings by tossing them in a sweet glaze or adding a spicy kick.

Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s game day or a cozy dinner at home, these wings are always a crowd-pleaser!

New York Style Chinese Takeout Wings Ingredients

You’ll need these essential ingredients to create your own flavorful wings!

For the Wings

Chicken wings – The main star; split into drumettes and flats for even cooking.
Soy sauce – Adds umami and saltiness; tamari is a great gluten-free substitute.
Shaoxing wine – Enhances flavor depth; use apple cider vinegar for a non-alcoholic version.
Minced garlic – Provides a robust aromatic element; freshly minced gives the best flavor.
Ground white pepper – Offers spiciness; black pepper is a suitable alternative if needed.
Five-spice powder – A classic blend for authentic taste; substitute a mix of cinnamon and cloves if necessary.
Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust based on dietary preferences.
Sugar – Balances flavors and boosts browning; honey or agave can be used as natural alternatives.

For the Coating

Cornstarch – This creates a light, crispy coating; avoid using flour for the same texture.
All-purpose flour – Works with cornstarch for extra crispiness; gluten-free flour blends work too.
Baking powder – Helps achieve the necessary fluffiness and crunch.

For Frying

Neutral oil (vegetable, canola, peanut) – Essential for frying; choose based on preference.

For Extra Flavor

Garlic powder – Sprinkle on the wings post-fry for additional taste.
Onion powder – Also sprinkled after frying to enhance flavor.
Paprika – Adds a slight smokiness; perfect for finishing touches.
MSG (optional) – Elevates umami flavor; feel free to omit if desired.

Now you’re set to embark on this delightful cooking journey and create mouthwatering New York Style Chinese Takeout Wings!

How to Make New York Style Chinese Takeout Wings

Marinate Wings: In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, minced garlic, ground white pepper, five-spice powder, salt, and sugar. Add the chicken wings and coat them well; marinate in the fridge for 1-4 hours for deeper flavor.
Prepare Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and baking powder. This mixture will give your wings that coveted crispy coating.
Coat Wings: Once marinated, remove the wings from the marinade and dredge them in the coating mix, shaking off any excess. Let them rest for about 10 minutes to help the coating adhere better.
First Fry: Heat a neutral oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the wings in batches for 6-7 minutes until they’re lightly golden; let them rest for 5 minutes on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
Second Fry: Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the wings again for another 3-4 minutes, or until they turn a deep golden brown and are irresistibly crispy.
Season: Once fried, remove the wings from the oil and sprinkle generously with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and optional MSG. Toss the wings gently to ensure they’re evenly coated.

Optional: Serve with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

New York Style Chinese Takeout Wings Variations

Feel free to play around with these wings and make them your own while adding exciting twists to each bite!

Sweet Glaze: Toss finished wings in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and garlic for a shiny, sticky delight. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, elevating each bite into a sweet savored moment.
Spicy Kick: For those who crave heat, add red chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil before serving. This fiery addition will awaken your taste buds and give the wings an irresistible zing!
Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped scallions or cilantro after frying for a burst of freshness that complements the umami flavors perfectly. It’s a delightful contrast that brightens the dish!
Zesty Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the finished wings for a tangy brightness. This citrus infusion cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing note to your dish.
Asian BBQ Sauce: After frying, toss wings in a flavorful Asian BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet twist. The sauce clings beautifully for a rich layer of flavor that feels extra festive.
Crispy Butter Garlic: Melt butter with minced garlic and toss the fried wings before serving. The buttery mix clings to your wings, enhancing their already crispy nature with a rich, savory flavor.
Lemon Pepper: Sprinkle lemon pepper seasoning on your hot wings for a zesty spin that’s perfectly harmonious with the flavors of soy and garlic. This adds a refreshing note and a delightful punch.
Nuts & Seeds: For added texture, garnish your wings with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds post-frying. This nutty element creates a delightful crunch and amplifies the Asian flavors beautifully.

Expert Tips for New York Style Chinese Takeout Wings

Batch Frying: Fry wings in small batches to maintain oil temperature; this ensures they cook evenly and achieve maximum crispiness.
Proper Marination: Allow wings to marinate for at least 1 hour, but up to 4 hours is best for deeper umami flavor penetration.
Double-Fry Technique: Embrace the double-frying method; it’s key to achieving that signature crispy texture. Don’t skip this step!
Rest Before Frying: Let wings come to room temperature post-marination for uniform cooking; cold wings in hot oil can lead to uneven texture.
Coating Consistency: Ensure the coating is evenly distributed and let it rest before the first fry; this helps adhere better during frying.
Storage Tips: For leftovers, store in an airtight container to keep wings crispy when reheating in an oven or air fryer. Enjoy your New York Style Chinese Takeout Wings!

Make Ahead Options

These New York Style Chinese Takeout Wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the wings up to 24 hours in advance (just keep them in the refrigerator) to let the flavors deepen. After marination, the coating can be prepared and stored separately for up to 3 days in an airtight container, ensuring crispy results when you fry them. To maintain quality, remember to keep the wings and coating separate until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy, simply coat the marinated wings, fry them for that golden crunch, and season them just before serving. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality wings ready with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for New York Style Chinese Takeout Wings

Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, reheat in the oven or air fryer.

Freezer: Allow wings to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months; simply reheat from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes to enjoy your New York Style Chinese Takeout Wings again.

Reheating: For best results, avoid the microwave to keep the wings crispy; instead, opt for the oven or air fryer to maintain that satisfying texture.

Thawing: If frozen, thaw wings in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for optimal texture and flavor.

What to Serve with New York Style Chinese Takeout Wings?

Create a satisfying and complete meal that elevates your wing experience to new heights.

Crispy French Fries: The perfect contrast to tender wings, pairing crunchy fries with flavorful dipping sauces brings joy to every bite.
Creamy Coleslaw: A fresh, crunchy slaw adds crispness while balancing the rich flavors of the wings with its tangy dressing.
Fried Rice: For a hearty, comforting touch, serve fried rice alongside the wings, creating a delightful takeout feast at home.
Lo Mein: Soft, savory noodles tossed in soy sauce and vegetables pair beautifully with the crispy texture of the wings.
Chilled Beer or Sparkling Water: A refreshing beverage such as cold beer enhances the experience, while sparkling water keeps things light.
Sweet Chili Sauce: A zesty dipping option that perfectly complements the umami flavor of the wings, adding just the right amount of sweetness.
Sticky Sesame Glaze: Toss the wings in a sweet, sticky glaze to take your flavor profile to an entirely new level.
Fruit Salad: A bright, refreshing fruit salad enhances your meal by adding a burst of freshness and a hint of sweetness.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your delightful meal on a sweet note with warm chocolate chip cookies for a comforting finish.

New York Style Chinese Takeout Wings Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting chicken wings?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken wings, look for wings that are plump and have a good amount of skin without any dark spots or bruises. Fresh wings should be pale and firm to the touch. If buying frozen, make sure there are no signs of freezer burn.

How should I store leftover wings?
Very! Store any leftover New York Style Chinese Takeout Wings in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll be good for up to 3 days. To reheat and maintain their crunch, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or use an air fryer.

Can I freeze the cooked wings?
Absolutely! To freeze your wings, allow them to cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Just remember to keep them spaced apart for even reheating!

What if my chicken wings don’t get crispy?
Don’t worry! If your wings aren’t getting crispy, it may be due to overcrowding the frying pan which causes a drop in oil temperature. Always fry them in smaller batches to maintain the heat. Additionally, ensure your wings are coated thoroughly and rested after coating, which helps the crispiness.

Are these wings pet-friendly?
It’s important to note that these wings contain ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and onion, which can be harmful to pets. Always keep leftovers out of reach from your furry friends, and consider making a plain chicken dish for them if you want to share!

Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary purposes?
Certainly! You can use tamari for a gluten-free version instead of soy sauce. For a non-alcoholic option, apple cider vinegar is a suitable substitute for Shaoxing wine. If you prefer a lower sodium option, look for low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the added salt. Adjust the ingredients according to your dietary preferences while ensuring you maintain the unique umami flavor!