Before I dive into the delicious details about Zaxby’s Teriyaki Wings, let’s talk about what pairs wonderfully with this dish. Imagine biting into a crispy, tender wing coated in that sweet, savory teriyaki sauce. Now think about refreshing beverages and sides that can elevate that experience.
This simple salad, featuring sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a dash of vinegar, offers a crisp contrast to the wings. The freshness cuts through the richness of the teriyaki sauce.
Soft, buttery breadsticks are hard to resist. Dipping them into the extra teriyaki sauce is something every wing lover should experience.
A creamy coleslaw adds crunch and a tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the teriyaki wings. It’s a match made in flavor heaven.
Get adventurous and swap out regular fries for sweet potato fries. Their sweetness enhances the flavor profile of the teriyaki sauce.
If you’ve ever bitten into a Zaxby’s Teriyaki Wing, you know just how dreamy they are. The crispy exterior combined with the flavorful teriyaki sauce creates a sensation that keeps you coming back for more.
I mean, wings are a staple for gatherings, game days, or just because you’re having a night in with your favorite show. Plus, with all the possibilities of dipping sauces and sides, wings can really steal the show.
In this piece, I’m going to walk you through everything I’ve learned about making these wings at home. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I want to provide a detailed guide that not only satisfies your cravings but is also genuinely fun to make.
You will also like the following Appetizer recipes!
- Best Zaxby’s Onion Ring Recipe
- How to make Zaxby’s Fried Mushrooms
- Best Zaxby’s Chicken Bacon Ranch Fries Recipe
What is Zaxby’s Teriyaki Wings?
At their core, Zaxby’s Teriyaki Wings are chicken wings coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. Each wing is juicy and crispy, offering a perfect blend of flavors at each bite.
The secret to their appeal lies in the balance of savory soy sauce and the natural sweetness of brown sugar.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe works because it captures the essence of restaurant-quality teriyaki wings right in your kitchen. The method of frying the wings ensures they maintain a crispy texture.
The homemade teriyaki sauce is a game-changer, providing depth and rich flavor that pre-packaged sauces simply can’t match.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
To replicate this culinary delight, you don’t need a whole lot. Here’s a brief list of what you’ll need:
- Wings: 1 and 1/2 lbs of Tyson chicken wing sections.
- Vegetable oil: For frying.
- Flour: 2 cups of all-purpose flour is ideal for that crispy coating.
- Seasoning: A hint of white pepper adds a subtle kick.
Teriyaki Sauce Ingredients:
- Low-sodium soy sauce
- Distilled white vinegar
- Brown sugar
- Ginger and garlic powder
- Cornstarch and cold water for thickening
- Honey to round out the flavors
How to Make Zaxby’s Teriyaki Wings
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
First things first, rinse and pat the chicken wings dry. This step is crucial. You want them to be as dry as possible to ensure that they fry up perfectly crispy.
Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
Combine the soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, garlic powder, and honey in a saucepan. Stir it over medium heat. Once it’s fully mixed, dissolve the cornstarch in cold water and add it to the pan. This guy is responsible for that glossy finish. Let it simmer until it thickens to your liking.
Step 3: Dredge the Wings
In a large mixing bowl, toss the wings in the flour and white pepper. Ensure they are fully coated. This creates a beautiful crust when fried.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You need enough oil for the wings to float.
Step 5: Fry the Wings
Carefully add the wings to the hot oil, cooking them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and fully cooked. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes.
Step 6: Toss in Teriyaki Sauce
Once they’re crisp, remove the wings from the oil and place them in a large bowl. Immediately pour the teriyaki sauce over the hot wings and toss to coat.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve the wings hot, garnished with sesame seeds if you’re feeling fancy!
Tips for Making Perfect Wings
- Dry Wings Thoroughly: Ensuring that there is as little moisture as possible helps achieve the perfect crispness.
- Do Not Skip the Marinade: If you have time, marinating the wings in soy sauce for a few hours can deepen the flavor.
- Maintaining Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on your oil’s temperature. Too hot, and they burn; too cool, and they’re soggy.
- Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding your pan. Cook in batches to ensure proper frying.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the brown sugar slightly.
How to Store Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (although that’s rarely the case in my house), store the wings in an airtight container. They can stay in the fridge for about 3 days.
When reheating, toss them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain that crispiness.
How Would I Recommend Serving Zaxby’s Teriyaki Wings?
- Game Day Delight: Kick off your party with a heaping platter of wings. Serve with a range of dips, from ranch to even more teriyaki sauce. Everyone will be thanking you.
- Barbecue Bash: These wings steal the show at any summer barbecue. Pair with your favorite sides, like grilled corn and potato salad, and you’ve got a feast.
- Movie Marathon: Create your own cozy cinema experience. Combine wings with popcorn, nachos, and your favorite soda.
- Family Dinner Fun: This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed broccoli and a salad, making it a wholesome family meal that’s quick to prepare.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?
- Chicken Thighs: If wings aren’t your thing, you can also use chicken thighs. They have a juicy texture and work well with the teriyaki sauce.
- Gluten-Free Flour: Can’t use regular flour? Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a great alternative. Your wings will still be crispy and delicious.
- Agave Nectar: If you wish to use a different sweetener, agave nectar can replace honey. Its liquid form will still provide that sweet note.
- Vegetable Broth: Out of soy sauce? Vegetable broth can be used for the teriyaki sauce. While it won’t have the same flavor profile, it’ll still offer a savory base.
Zaxby’s Teriyaki Wings Recipe
Equipment
- Deep skillet
Ingredients
Wings
- 1 and 1/2 lbs Tyson chicken wing sections
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper for a subtle heat
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Teriyaki Sauce
- 2 cups low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup distilled white vinegar
- 1 and 1/4 cups packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground dried ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder for more depth
- 6 teaspoons cornstarch
- 5 teaspoons cold water
- 1 tablespoon honey for extra sweetness and richness
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
- First things first, rinse and pat the chicken wings dry. This step is crucial. You want them to be as dry as possible to ensure that they fry up perfectly crispy.
Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
- Combine the soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, ginger, garlic powder, and honey in a saucepan. Stir it over medium heat. Once it’s fully mixed, dissolve the cornstarch in cold water and add it to the pan. This guy is responsible for that glossy finish. Let it simmer until it thickens to your liking.
Step 3: Dredge the Wings
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the wings in the flour and white pepper. Ensure they are fully coated. This creates a beautiful crust when fried.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
- In a deep skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You need enough oil for the wings to float.
Step 5: Fry the Wings
- Carefully add the wings to the hot oil, cooking them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and fully cooked. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes.
Step 6: Toss in Teriyaki Sauce
- Once they’re crisp, remove the wings from the oil and place them in a large bowl. Immediately pour the teriyaki sauce over the hot wings and toss to coat.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Serve the wings hot, garnished with sesame seeds if you’re feeling fancy!
Notes
- Dry Wings Thoroughly: Ensuring that there is as little moisture as possible helps achieve the perfect crispness.
- Do Not Skip the Marinade: If you have time, marinating the wings in soy sauce for a few hours can deepen the flavor.
- Maintaining Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on your oil’s temperature. Too hot, and they burn; too cool, and they’re soggy.
- Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding your pan. Cook in batches to ensure proper frying.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the brown sugar slightly.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake Zaxby’s Teriyaki Wings instead of frying them?
Absolutely! For a healthier alternative, bake the floured wings at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through. Once baked, toss them in the teriyaki sauce.
How spicy is the teriyaki sauce?
The beauty of homemade teriyaki sauce is that you control the heat. The recipe as is offers just a hint of spice from the white pepper. Feel free to adjust to your heat preference.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes! The flavors are mild and sweet. However, you might want to leave out added spices to keep it kid-friendly.
How can I make this dish healthier?
Consider baking the wings instead of frying them. You can also reduce the sugar in the teriyaki sauce or substitute with a sugar alternative.
Can I freeze the leftover wings?
Yes! You can freeze them, but make sure they’re stored in a tightly sealed container. When you’re ready to eat, reheat directly from the freezer.
What are some additional toppings for wings?
Consider adding sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or even crushed peanuts for some added crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
Zaxby’s Teriyaki Wings offer a tasty journey into flavorful eating. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can recreate that beloved experience right at home. Whether for game day, a casual dinner, or just because it’s a Wednesday, these wings bring joy and satisfaction to the table.
So gather your ingredients, rally your friends or family, and embark on this culinary adventure. You’ll find that home-cooked wings are not just a dish; they are an experience to savor. Enjoy your cooking!