When the craving for something crispy hits, nothing quite satisfies like a plate of golden-brown chicken wings. One evening, after a long day, I decided to whip up a batch that would not only tantalize my taste buds but also impress my guests. That’s when I stumbled upon the wonderful world of Vietnamese cuisine, more specifically, these Crispy Fish Sauce Chicken Wings.

Imagine biting into a wing that’s perfectly crispy on the outside, revealing tender, juicy meat within. Coated in a sticky glaze that balances sweet, salty, and tangy notes, these wings are a delightful crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a cozy night in, or simply seeking to elevate your dinner routine, these wings offer a burst of bold Asian flavors that are as playful as they are satisfying. Best of all, they’re baked to perfection, providing a healthier alternative to frying without sacrificing flavor. Ready to make your new favorite dish? Let’s dive in!

Why are Fish Sauce Chicken Wings a must-try?

Crispy, golden goodness: With a perfectly baked finish, these wings achieve a delightful crunch without the hassle of frying.
Bold Asian flavors: The fish sauce glaze creates a mouthwatering balance of sweet, salty, and tangy, elevating your wing game to new heights.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these wings are sure to impress friends and family—making you the star of the show.
Healthier option: Baked rather than fried, they offer a guilt-free indulgence that still satisfies cravings.
Easy preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, whipping up a masterpiece is both fun and stress-free! For more crowd-pleasing dishes, check out our other favorite recipes.

Ingredients
• Crispy Fish Sauce Chicken Wings

For the Wings

Chicken Wings – Raw and at room temperature for even cooking.
Baking Powder – Essential for that desired crispy texture; avoid substituting with baking soda.

For the Glaze

Fish Sauce – The key ingredient for deep umami flavor; soy sauce can be used in a pinch.
Light Soy Sauce – Helps to balance the flavors; opt for low-sodium if watching salt intake.
Sugar – Sweetens the glaze; using palm sugar adds a richer taste.
Ginger (minced) – Infuses warmth and zest into the glaze.
Garlic (minced) – Adds robust aroma and enhances overall flavor.
Citrus Juice and Zest (lime preferred) – Brightens up the dish; lemon or rice vinegar can work too.
Sambal Belacan Chilli – Provides a delightful heat; adjust with sambal oelek or sriracha as desired.

Optional Garnish

Coriander or Spring Onions – Enhances freshness and gives a bright visual appeal to your plated wings.

Dive into this delightful recipe and let these fish sauce chicken wings be the star of your next gathering!

How to Make Fish Sauce Chicken Wings

Preheat the oven to 248°F (120°C) and let the chicken wings rest for 20 minutes. This helps them reach room temperature for even cooking.
Pat dry the chicken wings thoroughly. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving that irresistible crispy texture.
Coat the wings lightly with baking powder, tapping off any excess. This step ensures a crunch that will make your taste buds dance!
Arrange the wings neatly on a wire rack placed over a baking tray. Spacing them properly allows for even air circulation during baking.
Bake at 248°F (120°C) for 30 minutes. This initial baking renders the fat, setting the stage for perfect texture.
Increase the oven temperature to 428°F (220°C) and bake for an additional 30 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C).
Prepare the glaze by simmering all the glaze ingredients in a pot until thickened, about 5-10 minutes. Stir continuously to prevent sticking.
Toss the freshly baked wings in the glaze immediately after taking them out of the oven. This ensures that each wing is deliciously coated before serving.

Optional: Garnish with fresh coriander or chopped spring onions for an extra burst of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Crispy Fish Sauce Chicken Wings?

Creating a well-rounded meal around these flavorful wings makes for an unforgettable dining experience that will delight your guests.

Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad that cuts through the richness of the wings. Crisp cucumbers and tangy rice vinegar offer a delightful contrast in every bite.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fluffy rice complements the sticky glaze beautifully, making each mouthful a harmonious blend of flavors. It’s the perfect base to soak up the saucy goodness.
Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed with a hint of garlic, these green beans add a satisfying crunch and an earthy flavor that balances the sweet and salty notes of the wings.
Pickled Vegetables: Bright and vibrant, these crunchy pickles bring a zesty zing that elevates the meal, cleansing the palate between bites for a fuller enjoyment of the delicious wings.
Chili Dipping Sauce: For extra flavor, serve with a side of chili dipping sauce. It enhances the wings with an additional layer of heat and tang that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Light Beer or Iced Green Tea: Pairing with a light beer adds a refreshing counterpoint to the wings’ richness, while iced green tea provides a soothing, herbal balance that keeps things light and refreshing.

Each of these accompaniments adds a special touch to your feast, making every gathering a memorable occasion filled with flavor and joy!

How to Store and Freeze Fish Sauce Chicken Wings

Fridge: Store leftover Fish Sauce Chicken Wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their crispy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking tray. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Enjoy that delicious crunch again!
Preparation Tips: Consider marinating the wings in the glaze for up to 24 hours before baking for enhanced flavor.

Fish Sauce Chicken Wings Variations

Feel free to play around with these variations to create your perfect version of these delightful wings!

Teriyaki Twist: Use teriyaki sauce in place of fish sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add extra sambal belacan or a dash of cayenne pepper to the glaze for a fiery punch.
Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or mint with your glaze for an aromatic surprise.
Maple Glaze: Substitute sugar with pure maple syrup for a richer, caramelized taste that adds depth.
Citrus Burst: Use orange juice and zest alongside lime for a refreshing citrus kick that brightens the dish even more.
Nutty Flavor: Drizzle a touch of toasted sesame oil over the chicken wings before serving for an added nutty aroma.
Garlic Lover’s Dream: Increase the minced garlic for a more pronounced flavor that garlic enthusiasts will adore.
Vegan Option: Try using cauliflower florets tossed in the glaze instead of chicken wings for a plant-based alternative.

Each variation lets you explore exciting new flavors while keeping the essence of those crispy, delightful wings!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Fish Sauce Chicken Wings are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors without the last-minute rush. You can marinate the chicken wings in the glaze up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep the flavors vibrant and to prevent browning. Alternatively, bake the wings ahead and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until they’re heated through and crisped back to perfection—there’s no compromise on taste! Enjoy this easy make-ahead option and savor the satisfaction of serving a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort.

Expert Tips for Crispy Fish Sauce Chicken Wings

Pat Dry Thoroughly: Remove all moisture from the wings before coating with baking powder. This is crucial for achieving crispy Fish Sauce Chicken Wings.
Use a Wire Rack: Elevate your wings on a wire rack while baking. This promotes even cooking and prevents steaming, resulting in that desired crunch.
Pay Attention to Temperature: Bake at the correct temperatures as indicated. The initial low temperature followed by a high finish guarantees perfectly cooked and crispy wings.
Don’t Skip the Glaze: Toss the wings in the glaze immediately after baking for the best flavor absorption. The warmth helps the glaze cling better!
Experiment with Spiciness: Adjust the amount of sambal belacan to control the heat level. This way, everyone at your gathering can enjoy these baked wings.

Crispy Fish Sauce Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose chicken wings?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken wings, look for fresh, plump wings with a light pink color and minimal dark spots or bruises. It’s best to buy them at room temperature from a trusted source to ensure even cooking later on.

How should I store leftover Fish Sauce Chicken Wings?
Store your leftover crispy fish sauce chicken wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their crispiness and prevent moisture accumulation.

Can I freeze Fish Sauce Chicken Wings?
Yes! To freeze the wings, first, arrange them in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze them for about 1-2 hours. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. This method helps prevent sticking!

What if my chicken wings are not crispy enough?
If your chicken wings aren’t as crispy as you’d like, there could be a couple of reasons. First, ensure you pat them completely dry before coating with baking powder. If they still feel soft, try increasing the oven temperature to 450°F (232°C) and broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes while keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Are there any dietary concerns with fish sauce?
Yes! Some individuals may have allergies to fish or are following a vegetarian or vegan diet, so it’s essential to check with guests before serving these wings. For substitutions, consider using a gluten-free soy sauce for a similar umami flavor without the fish.

Can I marinate the wings ahead of time?
Very much so! You can marinate your chicken wings in the glaze for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only infuses flavor but also allows the fish sauce chicken wings to develop a deeper taste profile, ensuring each bite is incredibly delicious!