Empress Chicken Wings

Prep: 75 min Cuisine: Chinese

Juicy chicken wings marinated in savory soy, ginger, and garlic, then lightly fried and garnished with fresh green onions for a flavorful Asian-inspired appetizer or main dish.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lb. chicken wings
  • 3 Tbsp. soy sauce
  • 1 Tbsp. minced fresh ginger root
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 Tbsp. oil
  • 1/4 to 1/3 c. cornstarch
  • 2/3 c. water
  • 2 green onions and tops, cut diagonally into thin slices
  • 1 tsp. slivered fresh ginger root

Instructions

  1. Disjoint the chicken wings and discard the tips.
  2. Combine soy sauce, minced fresh ginger, and minced garlic in a large bowl.
  3. Stir in the chicken wings to coat them evenly.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
  5. Remove the chicken wings from the marinade and reserve the marinade for later use.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of sesame oil to the marinade. If you don't have fresh ginger, ground ginger can be used in a pinch, adjusting the amount to taste. You can also use chicken drumsticks instead of wings for a different texture. To achieve a crispier skin, dust the marinated wings with additional cornstarch before frying.

Serving Suggestions

These Empress Chicken Wings are perfect for game day gatherings or as an appetizer during festive occasions like Chinese New Year. Serve them alongside a fresh cucumber salad or rice for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Hoisin-Glazed Chicken for a delightful spread of flavors. Don't forget to garnish with the sliced green onions for an added burst of freshness.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Empress Chicken Wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the wings for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in an air fryer for a few minutes for optimal crispiness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Empress Chicken Wings contains roughly 1566 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 170g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1598mg per serving (69% of the Daily Value).

1566 kcal 78% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.9g 4% DV
Total Fat 170.3g 100% DV
Carbs 13.7g 5% DV
Fiber 2.7g 10% DV
Sugar 0.3g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1598mg 69% DV
Potassium 127.8mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 0.6mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1.9mcg
Vitamin C 3mg 3% DV
Calcium 85.1mg 7% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb
Contains Soy

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the wings ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the wings a day in advance. Just make sure to keep them covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, simply remove them from the marinade and proceed with your cooking method. This extra time allows the flavors to infuse more deeply into the chicken.

What cooking methods can I use for these wings?

You can bake, fry, or grill the wings based on your preference. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 40 minutes will yield tender wings with a crispy exterior. If frying, heat oil in a deep pan and fry until golden brown. Grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the marinade well.

Can I use a different type of sauce if I don't have soy sauce?

Yes, if you're looking for a soy sauce substitute, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lighter flavor. Keep in mind that these alternatives may slightly change the taste, so adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain balance.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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