In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice wine, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, cornstarch, Chinese five-spice powder, salt, and pepper.
Whisk the ingredients together until well combined, ensuring that the cornstarch is fully dissolved. This will help thicken the marinade and give the wings a glossy finish.
Taste the marinade and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for a saltier taste.
Marinating the Chicken Wings:
Place the chicken wings in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag.
Pour the marinade over the wings, ensuring that they are evenly coated. If using a bag, seal it tightly and gently massage the wings to distribute the marinade.
Refrigerate the wings and let them marinate for at least 2 hours. For maximum flavor, marinate them overnight, allowing the wings to soak up the deliciousness.
Cooking the Chinese-Style Chicken Wings:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and set it aside.
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
Remove the chicken wings from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
Carefully place the wings in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches, if necessary, to ensure even cooking.
Fry the wings for about 5-7 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip them halfway through the cooking process.
Transfer the fried wings to the prepared baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven.
Bake the wings for an additional 15-20 minutes until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This will ensure that the wings are juicy and tender.
Garnishing and Serving:
Remove the wings from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes to cool slightly.
Arrange the wings on a platter and garnish them with sesame seeds and finely chopped scallions for an added touch of freshness and visual appeal.
Serve the Chinese-style chicken wings hot as an appetizer or as part of a main course. They pair exceptionally well with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.