We love diving into iconic recipes like Oyster Wings from Leeann Chin, a beloved staple of Chinese-American cuisine that’s packed with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch. This dish draws from Leeann Chin’s creative twists on traditional oyster sauce, turning simple chicken wings into an irresistible treat that’s perfect for family gatherings or game day feasts.
What makes Oyster Wings so special is their balance of savory umami and crisp texture, and we’re excited to share our take on this classic. Join us as we bring a taste of Leeann Chin right to your kitchen, making it easier than ever to impress your guests.
Ingredients
To bring the bold, umami-rich flavors of our Oyster Wings inspired by Leeann Chin into your kitchen, we start with these key ingredients. We’ve organized them in the order they’re typically used, with prep notes for accuracy and ease.
- Chicken wings: 2 pounds, fresh or thawed; pat dry for better crisping during cooking.
- Oyster sauce: ½ cup; this is the star ingredient that delivers the dish’s signature savory depth—look for a high-quality brand like Leeann Chin’s style for authentic taste.
- Soy sauce: ¼ cup, low-sodium; use this to balance the sweetness and add a tangy contrast right after the oyster sauce.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced; freshly chopped for maximum aroma and flavor integration in the marinade.
- Ginger: 2 tablespoons, grated; prepare by peeling and grating just before use to preserve its zesty kick.
- Honey or brown sugar: 2 tablespoons; opt for honey if you prefer a natural gloss, added next to enhance caramelization.
- Cornstarch: ¼ cup; for coating, ensuring a satisfying crunch—sift it to avoid lumps.
- Vegetable oil: 1 cup, for frying; choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point to achieve that golden-brown exterior.
- Green onions: 4 stalks, sliced; reserve for garnish to add a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Sesame seeds: 1 tablespoon, toasted; sprinkle these at the end for a nutty texture and visual appeal.
| Ingredient | 4 Servings | 6 Servings | 8 Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken wings | 2 lbs | 3 lbs | 4 lbs |
| Oyster sauce | ½ cup | ¾ cup | 1 cup |
| Soy sauce | ¼ cup | ⅓ cup | ½ cup |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | 6 cloves | 8 cloves |
| Ginger | 2 tbsp | 3 tbsp | 4 tbsp |
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients, we will guide you through the step-by-step process to create irresistible Oyster Wings infused with umami from oyster sauce. Let’s ensure each step delivers bold flavors and a satisfying crunch for an authentic Leeann Chin experience.
Prep Work
Before we start cooking, proper preparation sets the stage for success. Begin by rinsing 2 pounds of chicken wings under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps achieve that coveted crispy texture. Next, mince 4 cloves of garlic and grate 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, then measure out 1/4 cup of oyster sauce, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey or brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons of cornstarch into separate bowls for quick access. Chop 2 green onions into thin slices and set aside 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds for garnishing, organizing everything in the order we’ll use it to streamline our workflow.
Marinating the Wings
We combine the flavors next to let the wings absorb deep, savory notes. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, grated ginger, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and honey or brown sugar until the mixture forms a smooth marinade. Add the prepared chicken wings to the bowl and toss them evenly to coat every piece, ensuring the umami-rich sauce clings to the skin for maximum taste. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours—the longer we marinate, the more the wings develop their bold, tangy essence that defines this Chinese-American classic.
Cooking the Wings
Now we bring the wings to life with a golden, crunchy exterior. Heat 2 cups of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F on a thermometer—maintaining this temperature ensures even cooking without sogginess. While the oil heats, remove the wings from the marinade and dredge them in the cornstarch, shaking off any excess for a light, crispy coating. Carefully add the wings to the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding, frying each batch for 8-10 minutes until they turn a deep golden brown and the skin crackles with every bite, releasing aromas of garlic and ginger that fill the kitchen. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked wings to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any extra oil, allowing them to rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
| Number of Servings | Chicken Wings (pounds) | Marinade Scaling Factor |
|---|---|---|
| 2-4 | 1-2 | 1x |
| 4-6 | 2-3 | 1.5x |
| 6-8 | 3-4 | 2x |
Conclusion
We’ve truly enjoyed exploring the Oyster Wings Leeann Chin recipe with you. It’s a timeless favorite that brings authentic flavors right to your kitchen.
Now it’s your turn to whip up a batch and make it your own for memorable meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Oyster Wings and their origins?
Oyster Wings are a flavorful Chinese-American dish popularized by Leeann Chin, featuring crispy chicken wings coated in a savory oyster sauce blend. They offer bold, umami-rich flavors with a satisfying crunch, perfect for family gatherings or game day events. This recipe highlights creative uses of oyster sauce to enhance traditional tastes, making it a go-to for home cooks looking to impress.
What ingredients do I need for Oyster Wings?
You’ll need chicken wings, oyster sauce, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, honey or brown sugar, cornstarch, vegetable oil, green onions, and sesame seeds. Ingredients are listed in order of use with prep notes for ease. This ensures accurate replication of the dish’s signature taste and texture, with options to adjust quantities for different serving sizes.
How do I make Oyster Wings step by step?
Start by rinsing and drying the wings, then mince garlic and grate ginger. Marinate the wings in a mix of garlic, ginger, oyster sauce, soy sauce, and honey or brown sugar for deep flavor. Fry in vegetable oil until golden and crispy. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. The process takes about 30-45 minutes, yielding umami-packed results.
Can I adjust the Oyster Wings recipe for different servings?
Yes, easily scale the recipe by adjusting ingredient quantities based on your needs. For example, double the marinade for more wings while keeping ratios intact. This makes it flexible for small family meals or larger gatherings, ensuring consistent flavor without waste. Always test smaller batches first for perfect results.
What are some tips for getting the best flavor and texture?
To achieve optimal crunch and umami, marinate wings for at least 30 minutes to let flavors soak in. Use fresh garlic and ginger for authenticity, and fry in hot oil for even cooking. Dust with cornstarch before frying for extra crispiness. Serve immediately to maintain texture, and pair with rice or veggies for balance.
Are Oyster Wings suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely, Oyster Wings are ideal for family gatherings, game days, or parties due to their bold flavors and easy preparation. They’re crowd-pleasers that can be scaled up effortlessly, impressing guests with their authentic Chinese-American taste. Follow the recipe closely for the best results and enjoy the satisfying crunch everyone will love.