Name: Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Wings Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 2 lb chicken wings; 1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil); 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry for gluten-free); 1 tablespoon light soy sauce (or soy sauce); 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 1/4 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon sugar; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon white pepper powder; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; Oil spray

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 20 reviews

If you’ve ever savored the crispy, juicy delight of Chinese chicken wings at your favorite restaurant and wished you could recreate that magic at home, you’re in for a treat. This Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Wings Recipe is a game changer, combining the perfect balance of bold Asian flavors with a satisfyingly crunchy texture that comes out beautifully every time. Using simple pantry staples and just a bit of marinating time, these wings come out with that irresistible golden crisp, all thanks to the genius of the air fryer. Plus, it’s easy to make gluten free and perfect for meal prepping!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black plate is filled with about eighteen golden brown fried chicken wings arranged in layers, garnished with small pieces of green onion scattered on top. Five chicken wings have slightly darker, more crispy edges. Around the plate, there are small wooden bowls holding coarse salt, ground black pepper, and two small black bowls, one with creamy light beige sauce and the other with bright red chili sauce. A white jar with a blue floral design is partly visible at the top, and a blue cloth is placed near the bottom left corner on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Wings Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. Each element is thoughtfully chosen to contribute to the wings’ vibrant flavor, crispy texture, and aromatic allure, ensuring that every bite is as mouthwatering as the last.

2 lb chicken wings: The star of the dish, providing tender meat and crispy skin when air fried.
1 tablespoon peanut oil (or vegetable oil): Adds a subtle nuttiness and helps the seasoning adhere perfectly.
1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry): Brings a distinctive aromatic depth typical in Chinese cuisine.
1 tablespoon light soy sauce (or soy sauce): Infuses a savory umami punch packed with classic soy flavor.
1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds warmth and a slight zing, complementing the chicken beautifully.
1 1/4 teaspoons salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors alive without overpowering.
1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the savory notes with a gentle sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a mellow garlicky aroma without harshness.
1/4 teaspoon white pepper powder: Delivers a subtle heat that’s classic in Chinese cooking.
2 tablespoons cornstarch: Creates a light, irresistible crust when air fried.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Combines with cornstarch to give the wings a perfect crispy coating.
Oil spray: Helps achieve an even, golden crunch without extra oil.

How to Make Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Wings Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Wings

This step is the secret to delivering full-bodied flavor that permeates the meat. Combine the chicken wings with peanut oil, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, ginger, salt, sugar, garlic powder, and white pepper in a large bowl or ziplock bag. Massage the mixture gently into every wing so the seasonings soak in completely. For best results, let the wings marinate overnight in the fridge, or if you’re short on time, give them at least 2 hours at room temperature. This simple soak makes all the difference.

Step 2: Prep for Air Frying

Right before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (176°C) to ensure the wings start crisping immediately. Drain the wings thoroughly and discard any leftover marinade to avoid sogginess. Patting the wings completely dry with paper towels is key to achieving that enviable crunch. Then mix the cornstarch and flour in a bowl and toss the wings in this mixture until they’re coated with a slightly dry, powdery layer — this is what leads to that perfect crispy skin.

Step 3: Arrange and Air Fry

Lay the wings out in a single layer skin side down in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd the basket; if needed, cook in batches. Give them a light spritz with oil spray to help form a gorgeous golden crust. Cook the wings for about 12 to 15 minutes total, flipping them halfway through to ensure that crispiness develops evenly on both sides. For smaller wings, flip at the 6-minute mark, while larger wings benefit from flipping at 8 minutes. This flexible timing gives you crispy wings just the way you love them.

How to Serve Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Wings Recipe

The image shows six steps of preparing fried chicken wings. The top left shows raw marinated wings in a clear plastic bag on a white marbled surface. The top right shows a woman's hand holding a strainer with marinated wings over the same surface. The middle left shows wings covered in a white flour coating in a large clear bowl. The middle right shows the coated wings spaced on a wire rack placed on a white tray. The bottom left shows a woman's hand using chopsticks to place partially cooked golden wings on the wire rack over a tray. The bottom right shows fully cooked crispy golden wings arranged on the rack and tray. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the wings visually and add an extra flavor layer, sprinkle chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top. A few sprigs of cilantro can bring a fresh aroma that pairs beautifully with the ginger and soy notes. If you like some heat, drizzle a touch of chili oil or scatter some thinly sliced fresh chili peppers for that perfect kick.

Side Dishes

These wings are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice or fluffy fried rice for a hearty meal. Crunchy cucumber salad or pickled vegetables provide a refreshing contrast, helping to balance the richness of the wings. For a snack or party spread, serve with a cool dipping sauce like creamy garlic aioli or tangy sweet and sour sauce for extra fun.

Creative Ways to Present

Think about stacking the wings on a platter lined with banana leaves for an authentic touch. You can also serve them on skewers alongside grilled vegetables for a festive presentation. Turning these wings into sliders using mini buns and fresh slaw can transform this Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Wings Recipe into a trendy finger food that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. For the best texture when reheating, avoid sealing while still hot as condensation can make the coating soggy.

Freezing

To enjoy these wings at any time, let them cool completely before freezing. Place the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and make for a fantastic quick meal option when you’re short on time.

Reheating

Reheat in the air fryer for about 5 to 7 minutes at 350°F to restore crispiness without drying out the meat. Alternatively, warming them in a conventional oven works well too, just make sure to preheat and place the wings on a wire rack so heat circulates evenly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen wings but it’s best to thaw them fully before marinating to ensure the flavors absorb properly and the wings cook evenly in the air fryer.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I bake these wings?

Absolutely! Bake the wings at 400°F (204°C) on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet for about 35 to 40 minutes, flipping halfway through to achieve a similar crispy texture.

How do I make this recipe gluten free?

Simply swap the Shaoxing wine for dry sherry and use gluten-free soy sauce to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets while preserving the authentic flavor profile.

Is it necessary to marinate the wings overnight?

While marinating overnight gives the best flavor penetration, even a minimum 2-hour marinade will yield tasty results. The longer, the better, but the wings remain delicious even with shorter marinating times.

Can I double the recipe to serve a larger group?

Yes! Just make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed to maintain that beautifully crisp finish for every wing.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Wings Recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire, especially if you crave restaurant-quality wings with far less fuss. The combination of simple ingredients, intuitive steps, and that incredible air fryer crispiness makes it a go-to for weeknights, parties, or any time a delicious snack calls your name. Give it a try and watch these wings become everyone’s absolute favorite!

Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Wings Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need