These Easy Vietnamese Chicken Wings are packed with flavor and super simple to make! They are marinated in a delicious mix of garlic, herbs, and spices, giving them a unique twist.
You’ll love how crispy they get in the oven or air fryer! I can’t resist having them for dinner or as a tasty snack while watching a movie. Let’s be honest, they’re hard to share! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: I recommend using whole wings, but you can use drumettes or wingettes for a different texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken pieces too!
Fish Sauce: This adds a distinct umami flavor. If you don’t have it, you can substitute it with soy sauce for a vegetarian version, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Honey gives a nice glaze and sweetness, while brown sugar will create a deeper flavor. If you’re vegan, maple syrup is a great alternative!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens up the dish. If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled lime juice can work, but fresh is always better for flavor.
How Can I Achieve Crispy Chicken Wings?
To get the wings super crispy, the key is to bake them on a wire rack. This allows the heat to circulate all around the wings. Here’s how:
- Make sure to preheat your oven properly to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the wings in a single layer on the rack to avoid steaming.
- If using a marinade, pat the wings dry before baking to promote crispiness.
- Turn them halfway through cooking for even browning.
These tips can help you get perfectly crispy, delicious wings every time! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Vietnamese Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Wings:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- For the Marinade:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for heat)
- For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Other:
- Cooking oil (for baking or frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then at least 1 hour to marinate—overnight is best for flavor! After marinating, you’ll need around 35-40 minutes to bake the wings. So, overall, set aside about 1 hour and 55 minutes for the best results.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the minced garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, honey or brown sugar, lime juice, black pepper, and chili flakes. Stir it up so all the ingredients are well combined!
2. Marinate the Chicken Wings:
Add the chicken wings to the bowl with the marinade. Toss them around until they are completely coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge. Let the wings marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better for a deeper flavor.
3. Preheat and Prepare for Baking:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. This will help the wings get that perfect crispy texture. Arrange the marinated wings on the rack in a single layer, giving them some space.
4. Bake the Wings:
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake the wings for 35-40 minutes. Make sure to turn them halfway through to ensure they are nice and crispy all around! If you prefer, you can also air-fry or deep-fry them for the same golden brown results.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once the wings are cooked and the skin is crispy, take them out of the oven and transfer to a serving plate. Sprinkle the top with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro for a colorful touch!
6. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Vietnamese chicken wings hot as a savory snack or appetizer. Don’t forget to add some lime wedges on the side for an extra zing!
Enjoy your flavorful Vietnamese-style chicken wings! 🌶️🍗🎉
FAQ for Easy Vietnamese Chicken Wings
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to completely thaw them before marinating. The best way to thaw is by leaving them in the fridge overnight or placing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for quicker thawing.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken Wings?
No more than 24 hours is best for marinating. Marinating for at least 1 hour will give you great flavor, but if you can let them sit overnight in the refrigerator, you’ll enhance the taste even more!
Can I Bake the Wings Instead of Frying Them?
Absolutely! Baking them is a healthier option and gives a deliciously crispy texture. Just follow the recipe instructions for oven baking at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or use the microwave for a faster option.
