Want to learn about Korean chicken wings? These wings are a global sensation known for their crispy exterior, juicy meat, and a delectable mix of sweet, spicy, and savory sauces. But what exactly makes them so special?
From the cultural background that began this to the art of double-frying, there is much to learn about this Epicurean masterpiece. Whether you like bold flavors or just love trying new recipes, these Korean cooking style fried chicken wings are sure to impress.
Stay tuned as we reveal their secrets and guide you through recreating this dish for yourself in your kitchen!
What are Korean Chicken Wings?
Korean chicken wing are a crispy, flavor bomb of a twist on the classic fried chicken, just like Japanese Karaage Chicken. They are double-fried for an ultra-crispy exterior, while the inside is juicy. A light coating of cornflour, salt, and baking soda gives it a blistered texture while adding plain flour makes it chunkier. What sets them apart is the sticky sauce made from Korean red chili pepper paste that brings sweet, spicy, and savory flavors together. This iconic dish is loved because of its irresistible balance of crunch and bold taste, making it a favorite among all dishes in Korean cuisine.
History and Cultural Significance of Korean Chicken Wings
Korean crispy chicken wings, also known as dakgangjeong, have quite an interesting history that shows the adaptability of Korea’s culinary world. Although it is hard to identify the exact date of its creation, its popularity coincided with the 1960s and 1970s, a time when Western influences, in the form of fast-food chains, introduced fried chicken to the country.
Koreans made it their own by adding a bold, sweet, and spicy twist using fermented Korean red chilli paste. It is now integrated into Korean culture, mainly in chimaek culture, where crispy chicken and cold beer meet for a perfect pairing.
Korean wings chicken are not just a meal but mean social bonding, shared experience, and the essence of Korean hospitality. Today, they are a global favorite.
How to Make Korean Chicken Wings at Home
Korean fried wings chicken are a combination of a crunchy, caramelized exterior and sweet, sticky sauce. You can make them variously such as frying, grilling, baking, and using an air fryer. Here is how you can prepare them using different techniques.
Ingredients for Korean Style Chicken Wings
Most of the ingredients are everyday pantry staples, except the essential Korean chilli paste that’s easy to find in most supermarkets or online. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Wings: Use whole wings or pre-cut drumettes and flats. The skin locks in moisture and crisps up beautifully during frying.
- Soy Sauce: It will add savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Honey: It balances the heat and acidity with its natural sweetness.
- Brown sugar: It adds a touch of caramel-like sweetness and enhances the barbecue-like flavor.
- Tomato Ketchup: This brings a tangy, slightly sweet note that complements the sauce.
- Mirin: A Japanese sweet rice wine that enhances the sauce’s depth and richness. Substitute with Sherry if unavailable.
- Gochujang: It is a Korean fermented chilli paste with spicy and flavour-enhancing qualities that help to make this sauce quite genuine.
- Sesame Oil: A nutty aroma impregnating the sauce with even more depth.
- Garlic, ginger, and onion: These will be aromatics sautéd for a robust flavor base after being finely minced.
- Cornflour/Cornstarch: You’ll get that nice crisp on your wings by using cornflour to coat. Mix with plain flour for a thicker coating, if you so prefer.
- Baking Powder: Creates a blistered, ultra-crispy exterior on the wings.
- Salt and Pepper: Add flavor to all other flavors.
Step-by-Step Process for Each Method
1. Frying Method (Traditional Korean Fried Chicken Wings)
Step 1: Prepare the Wings
Pat dry with paper towels so that the chicken wings crisp up. Then season the wings with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Dredge the wings in corn flour mixed with baking powder for that signature crunch.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
You will need a deep fryer or a large pan to heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures crispy and golden-brown chicken wings.
Step 3: Fry the Wings
You should fry the wings in batches for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown. Let the wings drain excess oil on a wire rack after removing them from the pan. Raise the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry again for an extra 2-3 minutes for even crispier wings.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze
In a pan, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, ketchup, mirin, sesame oil, gochujang, garlic, ginger, and onion. Simmer sauce until it reaches a glaze-like consistency.
Step 5: Glaze Wings
Toss crispy wings in the sauce until nicely coated. Sprinkle some sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a finish.
2. Air Fryer Method (Korean Chicken Wings Air Fryer)
Step 1: Prepare the Wings
The wings should be seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Coat the wings in cornflour and baking powder to get that crispy texture without deep frying.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Make sure your air fryer is preheated to 380°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 3: Air Fry the Wings
In the air fryer basket, arrange the wings in a single layer. Once the wings are golden brown and crispy, air fry them for 20-25 minutes on each side.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a pan, combine the sauce, honey, brown sugar, ketchup, fermented chilli sauce, sesame oil, mirin, garlic, ginger, and onion. When the sauce has thickened, reduce it further.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Toss the air-fried wings in the sauce, coating evenly. The dish should be garnished with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
3. Grilling Method (Korean BBQ Chicken Wings)
Step 1: Prepare the Wings
Combine salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and garlic powder when seasoning the wings. Cover the wings with a mixture of corn flour and baking powder to help them crisp up on the grill.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Set your grill’s temperature to medium-high, around 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
Step 3: Grill the Wings
Place the wings onto the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping occasionally, until crispy and cooked through.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a saucepan, whisk together soy condiment, honey, brown sugar, gochujang, sesame oil, mirin, garlic, ginger, and onion. Simmer the sticky Korean BBQ sauce, reducing it until it thickens.
Step 5: Glaze the Wings
During the last 5 minutes of grilling, brush wings with sauce for a sticky, flavorful glaze.
4. Oven-Baked Method (Baked Korean Chicken Wings)
Step 1: Prepare the Wings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensure that the wings are well seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cover the wings with cornflour and baking powder for crispiness.
Step 2: Bake the Wings
On a baking sheet, put the wings on a wire rack. Turn the wings halfway through baking so they become crispy and golden. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a saucepan, mix soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, gochujang, sesame oil, mirin, garlic, ginger, and onion. Once the sauce has thickened to a glossy consistency, remove it from the heat.
Step 4: Toss the Wings
The wings should be fully coated with sauce after they have been baked.
5. Slow Cooker Method (Korean Chicken Wings Marinade)
Step 1: Prepare the Wings
Season wings with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Dredge wings in corn flour and baking powder to coat for crispiness.
Step 2: Slowly Cook the Wings
Put the wings in the slow cooker, cooking on low for 3-4 hours until they are tender and juicy.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Prepare a sauce using soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, gochujang, sesame oil, mirin, garlic, ginger, and onions. Reduce the sauce until thickened.
Step 4: Coat the Wings
Once the wings are cooked, toss them in the sauce and cook for another 20–30 minutes to give them time to absorb the flavor.
Whether you are making spicy Korean chicken wings in the air fryer or enjoying BBQ Korean chicken wings from the grill, these methods ensure you a crispy and flavorful treat.
How to Store The Best Korean Chicken Wings
If you have leftover Korean spicy chicken wings or want to prepare them ahead of time, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and crispy. Follow these simple steps to store your wings and enjoy them later without compromising flavor or texture.
Cool First: Let the wings cool down to room temperature before storing them. This will prevent condensation that may make them soggy.
Airtight Container: Keep the wings in an airtight container. If possible, keep the wings separate from the sauce to maintain crispiness.
Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for 3-4 days; make sure the container is tightly sealed to preserve flavor and moisture.
Optional Freezing: For longer-term storage, freeze the wings for up to 3 months. Wrap the wings tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. If desired, reheat it at your favorite crispiness in an oven or air fryer.
With these easy storage suggestions, the Korean barbecue chicken wings will maintain flavor and some freshness for days!
Tips and Tricks for Making Perfect Korean BBQ Chicken Wings
Dry the Wings Thoroughly: Pat wings dry and squeeze out excess moisture. For extra crispiness, refrigerate them uncovered on a baking rack for up to 6 hours, then bring to room temperature before cooking.
Use a Baking Rack: Place the wings on a baking rack over foil-lined baking sheets. This allows air circulation and keeps the wings from sitting in grease.
Don’t Skip Baking Powder: Baking powder, not soda, is key to crisp skin. It draws out moisture and speeds up browning for a golden finish.
Broil for Extra Crunch: Bake at 400°F, then broil briefly for a final crisp. Avoid burning by keeping an eye on it.
Stick with Gochujang: This chilli paste offers sweet heat and complex flavor which is perfect for authentic wings.
Customize the Heat: Add more gochujang for spice lovers or reduce it for a milder taste.
What Sides to Serve with Crunchy Korean Chicken Wings?
Crispy Korean BBQ chicken wings are versatile and go well with various sides, whether served as a main dish or an appetizer. Their bold flavors and crispy texture allow for endless side dish options to complement the experience. Here are some fantastic pairing ideas:
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As an Appetizer
Whether serving Korean spicy chicken wings as an appetizer or finger foods, here are some other small Asian-inspired bites that would make good accompaniments:
Egg Rolls: Crunchy and savory, these are the classic rolls that are the perfect balance to spicy wings.
Wontons, Crab Rangoons: Crispy fried bite-sized stuff with creamy or savory inside for a delightful crunch.
Potstickers: An ever-popular pan-seared dumpling with a base soft and chewy while the edges are crispy.
Asian Chicken Wraps: Fresh lettuce wraps, with savory chicken and veggies, make for a refreshing side.
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As a Main Dish
When Korean wings chicken take centre stage, you’ll want hearty and balanced sides to round out the meal:
Steamed White Rice: Simple and neutral, perfect for soaking up the flavorful wings sauce.
Brown Rice or Quinoa: Nutty flavors and textures that balance the spice.
Cauliflower or Broccoli Rice: Great for a lighter, low-carb option.
Pineapple Rice: Sweet and tropical, this complements the spicy and tangy overtones of the wings.
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Stir-Fried Vegetables
Mix-and-Match Veggies: Get a colorful and healthy side dish by stir-frying broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, or snap peas.
Roasted Veggies: Go with roasted broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, or even squash to give your plate a deep, caramelized flavor.
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Fresh Salads
Crunchy Asian Salad: A mix of cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame dressing adds a refreshing contrast.
Pineapple or Mandarin Salad: Sweet, juicy fruits marry well with the strong heat of the wings.
Cucumber Salad: Chilled and crunchy, it helps neutralize the spice.
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Salads/Warm Soups
Miso Soup: A light, umami-filled starter.
Thai Noodle Soup or Wonton Soup: Hearty, and full of the perfect comfort accompaniment.
Curried Butternut Squash Soup: Rich and velvety, with an edge of sweetness to take off the wings’ spiciness.
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Fruits
Pineapple (Raw or grilled): With its inherent sweetness, this helps in toning down the spiciness.
Mixed Fruit Salad: A medley of refreshing fruits like melons, berries, and grapes can be a delight.
Why You Will Love This Korean Chicken Wings Recipe
Crispy, flavorful, and irresistibly coated in a spicy-sweet gochujang sauce, these chicken Korean wings are a perfect combination of ease, health-conscious preparation, and bold, addictive flavors.
Signature Korean Flavors
Packed with bold flavors from gochujang, soy sauce, and honey, these wings deliver a tantalizing mix of spice, sweetness, and savory goodness.
Healthier Option
Baked instead of fried, these wings have less fat and calories while retaining crispy skin and juicy meat.
Effortless to Prepare
Season, bake, and sauce. Ingredients are easily available, and they are hassle-free for any level of skill.
Crowd-Pleaser
From parties and game nights to family gatherings, this recipe is effortlessly scalable to feed a whole crowd.
Few Ingredients
It requires just a handful of pantry staples and one speciality ingredient, including gochujang, making it convenient and easy to whip up anytime.
Make-Ahead Friendly
Prepare the wings and sauce in advance for a quick and seamless mealtime.
Versatile Dish
Enjoy them as a main course, appetizer, or snack—these wings fit every occasion and are sure to impress!
Addictive Taste
This sticky, spicy, somewhat sweet glaze makes these wings a dish everyone will crave over and over again.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, this guide has inspired you to try making Korean Chicken Wings at home! The sweet, spicy, and sticky goodness of these delicious treats makes them a crowd-pleaser no matter what the occasion may be. Experiment with different cooking methods and side dishes to make the recipe truly your own. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, these wings are sure to become a staple on your menu. Don’t forget to combine these wings with your favorite sides for a full meal.
For more delicious and authentic Asian recipes, try exploring Negi & Nori and leap into the diverse worlds of Japanese and Korean flavors right at your table.
Frequently Asked Question
Why are fried Korean chicken wings so crispy?
Korean fried chicken wings get their signature crunch from a double-frying process and dredging in potato or corn starch beforehand, giving it that thin, crunchy exterior with a juicy interior.
What cuts of chicken are best for Korean wings?
While wings are traditional, drumsticks work too, or even boneless, like tenders. For the juiciest, go bone-in and skin-on.
Can I freeze Korean chicken wings?
Yes! Freeze cooked wings for up to three months and store the sauce separately. Simply reheat the wings in an oven or air fryer, then toss with warmed sauce before serving.
What is Gochujang?
Gochujang is a fermented Korean red chili pepper that is made from fermented soybeans, glutinous rice, and chili peppers. It’s essential for authentic Korean chicken wings.
What sets Korean-style wings apart from other fried chicken?
Korean wings are all about simplicity in the coating, potato or corn starch and frying technique, with bold and complex flavors coming from sauces such as gochujang-based glazes.
What sauces go well with Korean wings?
Gochujang glazed, soy-garlic sauced, or even just honey sesame are traditional kinds. Leftover sauce is great for dipping.
