Savory Asian-Style Slow Cooked Chicken Wings
Nutritional value per serving
Calories320kcal
Carbs10gram
Fat15gram
Protein25gram
Ingredients
- Chicken wings - choose fresh, preferably skin-on wings for more flavor1 kg
- Soy sauce - use low sodium to control saltiness60 ml
- Honey - for natural sweetness and glaze3 tbsp
- Garlic cloves - fresh, finely minced4 pieces
- Ginger - fresh, peeled and grated1 tbsp
- Rice vinegar - to add a subtle tanginess2 tbsp
- Sesame oil - for authentic aroma and flavor1 tbsp
- Chili flakes - optional, adjust to taste1 tsp
- Green onions - chopped, for garnish2 pieces
- Sesame seeds - toasted, for garnish1 tbsp
This recipe offers a foolproof way to make melt-in-your-mouth Asian-style slow cooked chicken wings that are bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Using common ingredients and a slow cooker, you can achieve tender and juicy wings infused with a delicious blend of soy, garlic, and ginger. This dish costs approximately $12 USD (€11, £9, ₹960) to make and contains about 320 kcal per serving. It suits a medium complexity level and takes about 30 minutes of preparation plus 4 hours of cooking.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the chicken wings
1Wash the chicken wings under cold running water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Dry wings help them absorb flavors better and reduce splatter during cooking.
Mix the marinade
2In a bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes (if using). Stir well until honey is dissolved and ingredients are evenly mixed.
Marinate the wings
3Place the chicken wings into a large bowl or zip-lock bag and pour the marinade over them. Ensure all wings are coated. Seal and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
Set up slow cooker
4Transfer the marinated wings and the marinade into the slow cooker's pot. Spread them evenly in a single layer for even cooking.
Cook the wings slowly
5Cook the wings on low heat for 4 hours. This slow cooking breaks down connective tissues, making the wings tender and juicy.
Check the internal temperature
6Use a digital meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the wings. The safe internal temperature for poultry is 75°C (165°F). Ensure this temperature is reached to confirm the wings are fully cooked and safe to eat.
Finish for crispy skin (optional)
7If you want crispy skin, preheat your oven to 220°C (430°F). Place wings on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes, turning once, until the skin is crispy and slightly caramelized. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Serve and garnish
8Arrange the wings on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful Asian-style slow cooked chicken wings!
Cooking Tips
-Always wash your hands and sanitize surfaces after handling raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination.
-If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can braise the wings in a covered pot on very low heat on the stove for about 2 hours until tender, but watch they don’t stick or dry out.
-For a thicker sauce, remove the wings when cooked, and simmer the cooking liquid in a pan until it reduces and thickens to glaze the wings.
-Use a meat thermometer for best results to ensure chicken is safely cooked yet juicy.
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Digital meat thermometer
- Bowl or zip-lock bag (for marinating)
- Baking sheet (optional, for crisping skin in the oven)
- Cooking utensils (spoon, tongs)
Shopping List
- [ ] Chicken wings (1 kg) (~$8): Choose fresh wings with skin on for juicier texture.
- [ ] Soy sauce (60 ml) (~$1): Low sodium soy sauce is better for controlled saltiness.
- [ ] Honey (3 tbsp) (~$1.5): Natural sweetener; check for purity.
- [ ] Garlic cloves (4 pieces) (~$0.5): Fresh is best for flavor.
- [ ] Fresh ginger (1 tbsp grated) (~$0.5): Look for firm, unwrinkled skin.
- [ ] Rice vinegar (2 tbsp) (~$1): Adds subtle acid; check expiration.
- [ ] Sesame oil (1 tbsp) (~$1): Use toasted sesame oil for authentic flavor.
- [ ] Chili flakes (1 tsp, optional) (~$0.5): Adjust spice level to taste.
- [ ] Green onions (2 pieces) (~$0.5): Fresh and crisp for garnish.
- [ ] Sesame seeds (1 tbsp) (~$0.5): Toast lightly before using.
Total approximate cost: $12
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before marinating and cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.
How do I know when the chicken wings are fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the wing; it should be at least 75°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
Can I double the recipe to serve more people?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and cooking time might increase slightly. Make sure your slow cooker is large enough to hold all the wings in a single layer or cook in batches.
Is it necessary to broil the wings after slow cooking?
No, broiling is optional. It gives the skin a crispier texture and deeper color, but the wings are fully cooked and tasty without it.