Discover the delightful world of Japanese Tebasaki Chicken Wings! As someone who craves simplicity and flavor, I couldn’t be more excited to share this recipe with you. These wings, lightly seasoned with salt, are a breeze to prepare and are baked to crispy perfection. If you’re looking for an easy and healthy way to enjoy protein-packed Japanese-style chicken, you’ve come to the right place!
Why I Love This Recipe
Tebasaki Chicken Wings are all about Japanese-style baked goodness. I created this recipe with a focus on simplicity where these wings are baked to crispy perfection, creating a delightful blend of umami flavors and textures. Perfect for a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even as a mouthwatering side dish, these wings are a must-try! It’s actually one my family favorites dishes to enjoy for a light meal!
My recipe will be your gateway to delicious chicken wings with a healthy twist! And what sets them apart? These wings are baked, not deep-fried like my Tebasaki Fried Chicken Wings, offering a healthier twist on a classic favorite that’s so easy to make! It’s as simple as soak, set, place in the oven, and forget! I guarantee this will become your new go-to recipe whenever you’re craving the irresistible taste of Japanese chicken wings!
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs Chicken Wings – pre-cut drumette and wings.
- 1 Cup Japanese Sake – typically will come in a large bottle labeled junmai sake. Can also substitute with dry sherry wine or Chinese cooking wine, found at local grocery stores or Asian markets.
- 1/4 tsp Salt – sea salt preferred.
- 1 Wedge Lemon – lemon wedge.
- 1/8 tsp Togarashi (red pepper) – Togarashi Japanese chili pepper blend found in most Asian or Japanese supermarkets. A good alternative would be cayenne pepper or red pepper.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you find yourself without togarashi, a suitable alternative is to use a pinch of Cayenne Pepper. However, exercise caution as cayenne pepper is notably spicier. A small amount can provide a similar kick to your dish without overwhelming it with excessive heat.
🍗 Wings Note
It’s important not to confuse Drumettes with drumsticks in this recipe. Drumsticks, being larger and part of the chicken’s leg, won’t be suitable due to their size.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
- Silicon Baking Mat or Parchment Paper
Directions
Step 1Marinate the wings and drumettes in Japanese sake for 10-15 minutes in a mixing bowl.
Step 2Transfer the chicken to a baking tray with a silicon baking mat or parchment paper, placing the skin side up. Sprinkle a generous amount of seasoning, then rotate and sprinkle seasoning again, ensuring the skin side is down.
🧂 Seasoning Pro Tip
For even seasoning, try sprinkling from a Higher Above and pay special attention to the wings placed in the corners of the baking tray as they often can be missed.
Step 3 Broil in the center of the oven for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through making sure wings are skin side up, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
💡 Cripsy Texture Pro Tip
To achieve Extra Crispiness, move the tray 6-8 inches away from the heating element after the initial 20 minutes and Broil for 3-5 Minutes on each side until golden brown.
Step 4 Transfer to a plate and serve with a lemon wedge.
Paring Recommendations
Consider serving these tebasaki wings alongside Garlic Chicken Fried Rice, a delightful blend of tender chicken, vegetables, and fragrant rice. For added depth of flavor, include a side of Soy Sauce Pickled Garlic, offering a savory and umami-rich contrast. And to complete your Japanese-inspired meal, savor a bowl of Tofu Miso Soup, brimming with the comforting warmth traditional Japanese flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I marinate the chicken for a longer time to enhance the flavor?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 1 hour if you wish. This extended marination can help tenderize the chicken meat and intensify the umami flavor, but be cautious not to exceed this time frame.
Is there a substitute for Japanese sake if I don't have it on hand?
Certainly, if you don't have Japanese sake, you can use dry sherry wine or Shaoxing Chinese cooking wine as suitable substitutes.
Do I need to use parchment paper or a silicon baking mat, or can I use a regular baking tray?
While parchment paper or a silicon baking mat is recommended for easier cleanup, you can also use aluminum foil and apply cooking oil to it. Alternatively, you can place the chicken directly on a regular oven tray, but be aware that it might be more challenging to clean afterward.
How can I ensure that the chicken turns out juicy and not overcooked?
Avoid overcooking. Follow the timing provided in this recipe, which should result in the wings reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. This temperature ensures the chicken is both tender and safe to consume.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, use an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. To maintain their crispiness when reheating, use an oven or an air fryer. In a pinch, a microwave for 1-1.5 minutes will also do the job.
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Watch How To Make It
Tebasaki Chicken Wings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs Chicken Wings & Drumlettes
- 1 Cup Japanese Sake
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1 Wedge Lemon optional
- 1/8 tsp Togarashi optional
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients.
- Place chicken wings inside a large mixing bowl along with Japanese sake and let it marinate for 10-15 minutes. Periodically rotate chicken to ensure all parts are getting marinated.
- Preheat to broil 500F.
- Remove chicken from marinade and sprinkle moderate amount of salt on both sides. If you want a little heat, sprinkle some optional togarashi or cayenne pepper. Make sure the chicken is skin side down and place on a silicon baking mat.
- Place the tray in the CENTER of the oven and broil chicken for 10-15 minutes or until browned. Note - if the chicken is browning too quickly, lower the tray to rack below.
- Once browned, flip chicken and broil for additional 10 minutes or until browned. If you want a crispy skin, move the rack 6-8" away from heating element and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer to a serving plate and serve with optional lemon wedge.
Nutrition
*Values Based Per Serving