There’s nothing quite like the joyous crunch and savory flavors of chicken wings fresh out of the fryer. As I dipped into my pantry for that last-minute dinner idea, I rediscovered a bottle of fish sauce, and a delicious vision came to mind. Drawing inspiration from Southeast Asian cuisine, I crafted these Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings—an irresistible fusion of intense umami and garlic goodness.
These wings are not your average game-day snack; they come alive with a sweet and tangy sauce that envelops each crispy piece, creating a flavor explosion that’ll have your guests begging for more. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a vibrant gathering with friends, these wings are sure to elevate your dining experience.
With simple ingredients and an easy prep process, you’ll be treated to a dish that’s not only crowd-pleasing but also brings warmth and excitement to your table. Join me on this culinary adventure and let’s make wings that will have everyone raving!
Why are Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings unforgettable?
Savory, each bite bursts with an umami flavor that transports you straight to the streets of Vietnam. Crispy texture meets a sweet and tangy sauce for an exceptional balance that excites the palate. Quick to prepare, you can whip up these wings in just under 45 minutes, making them perfect for spontaneous gatherings. Versatility ensures they shine at parties or casual dinners, and don’t forget to serve them with fresh lime for an extra zing! These wings are bound to be a hit, so check out our guide on perfect frying methods to enhance your cooking skills.
Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings Ingredients
Dive into vibrant flavors with these wings!
For the Batter
- All-purpose flour – gives a light, crispy coating to the wings.
- Corn starch – helps achieve extra crunchiness when frying.
- Salt – enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Pepper – adds a touch of warmth and spice.
For the Chicken Wings
- Chicken wings – the star of the show, split and ready to soak in flavor.
- Unsalted butter – brings richness to the aromatic base of the sauce.
- Shallot – provides a mild, sweet onion flavor.
- Garlic – infuses a fragrant and savory kick to the sauce.
For the Sauce
- Fish sauce – the key ingredient that delivers that unique Vietnamese flair.
- White granulated sugar – balances the salty fish sauce with a hint of sweetness.
- Water – helps to create the luscious sauce consistency.
For Frying and Garnishing
- Oil for frying – use enough to submerge wings for that perfect crunch.
- Lime wedges – brighten the dish with a citrusy pop when serving.
- Green onion (optional) – adds a fresh touch as a garnish.
- Cilantro (optional) – lends a beautiful color and herbal note.
- Red chili peppers (optional) – brings extra heat and visual appeal.
Now that you have all the ingredients lined up, get ready to create a dish that your family and friends will rave about!
How to Make Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings
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Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, corn starch, salt, and pepper. This blend creates a light, crispy coating for your wings. After mixing, add the chicken wings and toss until they are evenly coated. Let them rest for 30 minutes to infuse those flavors.
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Sauté Aromatics: While waiting, melt the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, making your taste buds tingle!
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Prepare the Sauce: Add the fish sauce, white sugar, and water to the pan. Let it simmer for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce reduces by half. If needed, increase the heat to medium-high. You’ll want a sweet and tangy sauce that perfectly complements the wings.
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Heat the Oil: Set up your frying station by heating 2-3 inches of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot, reaching 350°F. Line a baking sheet with paper towels and place a cooling rack on top to catch the crispy wings later.
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Fry the Wings: Once the wings are ready, fry them in batches. Aim for a cooking time of about 6-8 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 180°F and the juices run clear. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot, as this will affect their crispiness.
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Drain and Cool: Transfer the cooked wings carefully to the cooling rack, arranging them in a single layer to keep them crispy.
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Coat with Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the warm wings with the prepared sauce. Toss gently until each wing is well coated in that flavorful mixture.
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Serve with Style: Transfer the wings to a serving plate and generously squeeze fresh lime juice over them. If desired, garnish with sliced green onions, cilantro, and red chili peppers for a pop of color and flavor.
Optional: Serve with extra lime wedges for an added zest!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings Variations
Feel free to explore these twists and turns that can elevate your chicken wings to new dimensions of flavor and enjoyment!
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a similar crispy texture without the gluten.
- Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or minced jalapeños to the sauce for a fiery burst of heat. Each bite will bring out your adventurous side!
- Honey-Lime Glaze: Swap out white sugar for honey and add zest from an extra lime to create a sticky, tangy glaze on your wings. The sweetness will beautifully balance the savory fish sauce.
- Herbaceous Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs such as basil or mint into the sauce before tossing with the wings for a vibrant, aromatic twist. This adds freshness to every bite!
- Baked Wings: For a healthier alternative, bake your wings at 425°F for 30-35 minutes. Just brush them with oil beforehand for that crispiness without frying.
- Coconut Flakes: Toss in some toasted coconut flakes when serving for an unexpected crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness. It’ll transport your wings to a tropical paradise!
- Asian Sesame: Add a splash of sesame oil and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds to the sauce for an irresistible nutty flavor that complements the savory elements perfectly.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Mix in a few tablespoons of Thai sweet chili sauce to the fish sauce for a perfect balance of sweet and savory, offering your wings a delightful twist of flavor.
Get creative, have fun, and let these variations guide you in crafting the perfect dish for your next gathering!
Storage Tips for Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings
Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool down before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Place wings in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for meal prep!
Reheating: For optimal crispiness, reheat wings in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This will revive that delightful crunch!
Sauce Storage: Keep any extra sauce in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or veggies!
Expert Tips for Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings
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Perfectly Crispy Wings: Ensure the oil is at 350°F before frying to achieve that golden, crispy texture. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
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Coating Consistency: Let the seasoned wings sit for 30 minutes to allow the coating to adhere better. This will prevent the batter from falling off during frying.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in small batches; overcrowding the pot will reduce the oil temperature, leading to soggy wings rather than crispy Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings.
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Simmering Sauce Technique: Watch the sauce closely as it reduces. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even flavor distribution.
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Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the lime wedges! A squeeze of fresh lime juice elevates the overall taste, balancing the savory flavors beautifully.
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Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store wings in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness before serving again.
Make Ahead Options
These Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can coat the chicken wings in the flour and cornstarch mixture up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they soak up those seasonings for even better flavor. Additionally, the sweet and tangy sauce can be prepared and stored separately in the fridge for about 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy these wings, simply fry them straight from the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before frying to help maintain their crispiness. With these make-ahead options, you can easily whip up a delicious meal without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these wings with delightful side dishes that complement their savory, umami-filled flavor.
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Crispy French Fries: These salty, golden fries contrast beautifully with the wings, offering a familiar comfort food element that everyone loves.
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Garlic Rice: A bowl of fragrant garlic rice enhances the meal with a nutty aroma, perfectly soaking up the wings’ flavorful sauce.
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Cool Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad brings a crunchy, crisp element, balancing out the richness of the wings and adding a necessary freshness.
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Steamed Broccoli: Vibrant and nutritious, steamed broccoli provides a lovely color contrast while keeping your meal healthy and fresh.
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Sweet and Sour Pineapple Skewers: Add a tropical twist to your table! The sweetness of pineapple contrasts the savory wings, making for a delightful burst of flavor.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat pairs wonderfully with the complex flavors of the dish, delivering a satisfying finish to your meal.
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Iced Green Tea: Refreshing and clean, this drink will cleanse your palate between bites, complementing the intense flavors without overwhelming them.
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Savory Duck Pancakes: If you’d like a unique twist, serve these alongside your wings. The soft pancakes provide an exquisite vessel to wrap the savory goodness!
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Spicy Kimchi: Adding a tangy kick, kimchi complements the flavors of the wings while providing an authentic touch of Southeast Asian cuisine.
Pair these suggestions with your Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings for a dining experience bursting with flavor and variety!
Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken wings?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken wings, look for fresh wings with a pink hue and no dark spots or discoloration. The wings should be plump and moist, signaling good quality. If buying frozen, ensure they are well-sealed with no signs of freezer burn, which can affect taste.
How should I store leftover wings?
Very important! Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, allow the wings to cool down fully before sealing. For best results when reheating, place the wings on a baking sheet in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes to regain their crispy texture.
Can I freeze the wings?
Absolutely! To freeze cooked wings, place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven for a crispy finish.
What should I do if my wings aren’t crispy?
Don’t worry; here’s a quick fix! If your wings turn out soggy, check if the oil temperature was too low during frying. Ensure the oil is heated to 350°F before frying, and avoid overcrowding the pot, which can lower the oil temperature. Fry in small batches for optimal crispiness.
Are these wings safe for my pet?
No, these wings are not safe for pets. The fish sauce and garlic can be harmful to dogs and certain other animals. Always keep seasoned or fried foods out of reach and consider making a plain batch without the seasonings for a pet-friendly treat!
How long does the sauce keep?
Great question! The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It not only complements these Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings incredibly well but also makes for a delicious marinade for grilled meats or roasted vegetables!
Savory Vietnamese Fish Sauce Chicken Wings Like You've Never Tasted
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the dry ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, corn starch, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken wings and toss until coated. Let rest for 30 minutes.
- Sauté aromatics. Melt the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced shallot and garlic, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare the sauce. Add fish sauce, white sugar, and water to the pan. Simmer for 5-6 minutes, stirring, until reduced by half.
- Heat the oil. Set up your frying station with 2-3 inches of oil in a pot, reaching 350°F. Line a baking sheet with paper towels.
- Fry the wings. Fry in batches for about 6-8 minutes or until an internal temperature of 180°F and juices run clear.
- Drain and cool. Transfer cooked wings to the cooling rack in a single layer.
- Coat with sauce. In a large bowl, combine warm wings with the prepared sauce, tossing gently to coat.
- Serve with style. Transfer wings to a serving plate, squeeze fresh lime juice over them, and garnish as desired.