Lemongrass Wings

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both exotic and comfortingly familiar, these Lemongrass Wings are your answer. Imagine succulent chicken wings infused with the vibrant flavors of lemongrass, garlic, and a hint of sweetness from honey, all combined with the umami richness of fish sauce. This dish is great for game nights, gatherings, or just a cozy dinner at home. The unique flavor profile will tantalize your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.

What Makes This Recipe Special

These Lemongrass Wings stand out not just for their flavor but also for their simplicity. The recipe requires minimal ingredients, yet the result is a burst of aromatic flavors that transports you straight to Southeast Asia. The combination of pounded and grated lemongrass provides depth, while the fish sauce brings a savory element that pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging in a midweek treat, these wings are sure to impress.

Ingredient Rundown

Here’s what you will need to create these delectable wings:

• 2 tablespoons lemongrass, grated: Adds a fragrant citrusy flavor.
• 2 stalks lemongrass, pounded: Enhances the dish’s aroma and taste.
• 1 1/2 lbs (750g) small chicken wings (party wings): The main ingredient, perfect for grilling or baking.
• 3 tablespoons fish sauce: Brings umami and depth to the wings.
• 5 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed: Infuses a rich garlicky flavor.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory components.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, coarsely cracked: Provides a bit of heat and texture.

Tools & Equipment Needed

To whip up these Lemongrass Wings, you’ll require a few essential tools:

• Baking tray: For roasting the wings to crispy perfection.
• Mixing bowl: To combine all the marinade ingredients.
• Meat mallet or rolling pin: To pound the lemongrass.
• Whisk or fork: For mixing the marinade.
• Oven or grill: To cook the wings.

Lemongrass Wings Made Stepwise

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the grated lemongrass, pounded lemongrass, fish sauce, smashed garlic, honey, and cracked black pepper. Use a whisk to blend the ingredients until the marinade is well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Wings

Add the chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat them evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the wings to a resealable bag for convenience. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve a crispy skin on the wings.

Step 4: Arrange the Wings

Line a baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the marinated wings in a single layer on the tray, ensuring they are not overcrowded.

Step 5: Bake the Wings

Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and crispy when done.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the wings from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them plain to savor the delicious flavors.

Better Choices & Swaps

If you’re looking for alternatives or want to customize your Lemongrass Wings, consider the following:

• Chicken Thighs: For a juicier option, use chicken thighs instead of wings.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken wings with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
• Low-Sodium Fish Sauce: Use a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Maple Syrup: Swap honey for maple syrup for a vegan-friendly sweetener.

Errors to Dodge

To ensure your Lemongrass Wings turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Not marinating long enough: The longer you marinate, the better the flavor.
• Overcrowding the baking tray: This can cause the wings to steam instead of crisp up.
• Skipping the pounded lemongrass: It adds a wonderful aromatic quality to the dish.
• Not preheating the oven: This step is crucial for achieving crispy wings.

How to Store & Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare, but can happen!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Allow the wings to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the wings in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but make sure to fully thaw them before marinating for the best flavor absorption.

What dipping sauces pair well with Lemongrass Wings?

These wings are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with a sweet chili sauce or a peanut sauce for an extra kick.

Can I grill these wings instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grilling will give the wings a lovely smoky flavor. Just make sure to monitor them closely to avoid burning.

How do I know when the wings are fully cooked?

The wings are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.

Because You Liked This

If you enjoyed these Lemongrass Wings, you might also like:

• Honey Sriracha Chicken Meatballs
• Buffalo Chicken Mac And Cheese

Save & Share

If you love this Lemongrass Wings recipe as much as we do, share it with friends and family! Spread the joy of cooking and let everyone enjoy these flavorful wings at their next gathering.

With the unique blend of flavors and the delightful aroma of lemongrass, these wings are sure to become a household favorite. Whether you whip them up for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, they’re bound to impress. Enjoy every bite of this culinary adventure!