No-Fuss Chinese Five Spice Chicken Wings Recipe

Relish the harmonious tang of simple cooking with this flavor-packed Chinese Five Spice Chicken Wings recipe. A heavenly union of sweet, sour, bitter, pungent, and salty, this dish is a testament to the magical symphony of the five essential flavors of Chinese cuisine. Be ready to let your taste buds embark on a sensational culinary journey.

Begin With Quality Ingredients

The success of this recipe begins with sourcing quality ingredients. Starting with fresh chicken wings, the base of our dish, is crucial. The fresher the wings, the more succulent and flavorful they will be. Your local butcher or grocery store should have a selection of fresh, high-quality chicken wings.

Next, you’ll need Chinese Five Spice Powder. This aromatic blend is the heart of the dish, providing the unique flavor profile. You can find it in most grocery stores, but if you want a truly authentic taste, consider purchasing online directly from a trusted source.

Tip: Opt for organic chicken wings if possible, as they tend to have a richer flavor. For the Chinese Five Spice Powder, check out this excellent choice here.

Master the Marination

Marinating the chicken wings in Chinese Five Spice Powder, soy sauce, honey, and garlic gives them a deep, rich flavor. The longer the chicken marinates, the more intense the flavors become. Aim for at least two hours, but overnight is best if you have the time.

Remember to turn the chicken wings occasionally to ensure they’re evenly coated in the marinade. This step infuses every bite with the distinct, well-rounded flavor of the Chinese Five Spice.

Tip: Use a zip-top bag for marinating. It’s easy to flip around and ensures all the chicken wings are in contact with the marinade.

Achieve Perfectly Crispy Wings

For that irresistible crunch, you’ll want to bake your chicken wings at a high temperature. This method helps the skin crisp up nicely while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to deep frying, without compromising on the crispness.

Use a wire rack on your baking sheet to ensure heat circulates evenly, giving all sides of your wings that desired crispy finish. Halfway through, flip the wings to ensure even cooking and browning.

Tip: To prevent your wings from sticking to the rack, spray it with a bit of cooking oil before placing the wings on it.

With these tips and tricks, you’re all set to create your own version of this delightful Chinese Five Spice Chicken Wings recipe. Enjoy the intoxicating aroma as you cook, and most importantly, savor every bite of these delectably seasoned wings.

Chinese Five Spice Chicken Wings

Course: Main CourseCuisine: Chinese

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Succulent chicken wings marinated in a rich blend of Chinese Five Spice, soy sauce, honey, and garlic, then baked to crispy perfection.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs Chicken Wings

• 2 tablespoons Chinese Five Spice Powder

• 1/4 cup Soy Sauce

• 2 tablespoons Honey

• 2 cloves Garlic, minced

Directions

• In a large bowl, combine the Chinese Five Spice Powder, soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic. Mix well.
• Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they’re fully coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible.
• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and arrange the marinated chicken wings on it.
• Bake for 20 minutes, then flip the wings and bake for another 20 minutes or until they’re crispy and golden brown.

Notes

• Chicken wings can be substituted with drumsticks or thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• If you can’t find Chinese Five Spice Powder, you can make your own by combining ground star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan (Chinese) peppercorns, and fennel seeds in equal parts.
• Serve with a side of steamed jasmine rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different part of the chicken?
A: Yes, you can use drumsticks or thighs. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: I can’t find Chinese Five Spice Powder. Can I make it at home?
A: Yes, you can make your own by combining ground star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan (Chinese) peppercorns, and fennel seeds in equal parts.

Q: Can I prepare the wings in advance?
A: Yes, you can marinate the wings and keep them in the fridge overnight. This will actually enhance the flavors.

Q: Can I deep fry the wings instead of baking?
A: Yes, but baking is a healthier option and still provides a crispy texture.