Start by rinsing the chicken wings under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure that your wings get crispy in the oven. Place the wings in a large mixing bowl and season generously with salt and black pepper.
In a separate bowl, combine the honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and water. Whisk them together until smooth. This marinade is the heart of your Fermented Honey Garlic Chicken Wings, adding both flavor and the fermentation element.
Pour the marinade over the seasoned chicken wings, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it sit at room temperature for 6-12 hours.
If you're using an oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). If you have an air fryer, set it to 380°F (193°C).
Once the wings have marinated, transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or into the air fryer basket. Bake in the oven for about 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, or air fry for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Once cooked, remove the wings from the oven or air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle with white sesame seeds for an extra crunch and visual appeal. Serve hot.