Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 pounds (approximately 1 kg) of chicken wings
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch or potato starch
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 red chilies, finely chopped (optional for spice)
• 3 green onions, sliced
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
• Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you are baking the wings. Alternatively, you can deep fry or use an air fryer.

2. Dry the Wings: Use paper towels to thoroughly pat dry the chicken wings. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin during cooking.

3. Coat the Chicken Wings: In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings, vegetable oil, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Chinese five-spice powder, and cornstarch. Toss the wings thoroughly to ensure each one is evenly coated with the spice mixture.

Step 2: Cook the Wings

1. Oven Method:
2. Arrange the wings on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. This allows heat to circulate evenly around the wings.

3. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.

4. Deep Frying Method:

5. Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C).
6. Fry the wings in batches for about 8-10 minutes each or until they are crispy and cooked through.

7. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

8. Air Frying Method:

9. Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
10. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking process.

Step 3: Final Touches

1. Wok-Cooking (Optional but Recommended): Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped red chilies. Stir-fry until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

2. Toss the Wings: Add the cooked chicken wings into the skillet or wok, tossing them to coat with the garlic and chili mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.

3. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the wings to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish.

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Recipe Summary

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (oven option)
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Calorie Count: Approximately 340 calories per serving

These salt and pepper chicken wings are a perfect blend of crispy goodness and flavorful seasonings, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Enjoy this quick and simple recipe that brings bold flavors without compromising on health or taste. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, these wings will become a favorite in your household!