Ingredients

For the Wings:

  • 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings, cut into drumettes and flats
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (60g) cornstarch
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Sweet Soy Scallion Glaze:

  • 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
  • 2 tbsp (30ml) rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp (25g) brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 3 scallions, finely chopped (white and green parts separated)
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Garnish:

  • Extra chopped scallions
  • Toasted sesame seeds

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Wire rack
  • Small saucepan
  • Tongs
  • Thermometer (for oil temperature)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Wings

  1. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels and place them in a large mixing bowl.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  3. Pour buttermilk over the wings and toss to coat evenly.
  4. Dredge each wing in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, and place on a wire rack. Let them rest for 10 minutes to set the coating.

Step 2: Fry the Wings

  1. Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry the wings in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  3. Remove wings with tongs and place on a wire rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Make the Sweet Soy Scallion Glaze

  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the scallions.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the green parts of the scallions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 4: Toss and Serve

  1. Place the fried wings in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Pour the warm glaze over the wings and toss gently to coat evenly.
  3. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with extra chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve immediately with a side of pickled radishes or cucumber slices to balance the richness.
  • Pair with steamed rice or a light coleslaw for a complete meal.
  • Offer extra napkins—these wings are sticky and delicious!

Tips

  • For extra crispy wings, double-fry them: Fry at 325°F (165°C) for 6 minutes, let rest for 5 minutes, then fry again at 375°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes.
  • Adjust the glaze’s sweetness or heat by tweaking the honey or red pepper flakes.
  • Make ahead: The glaze can be prepared a day in advance and reheated before tossing.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 32g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Sodium: 980mg

Enjoy your Sweet Soy Scallion Popcorn Wings!