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The first bite of these Spicy Korean Chicken Wings with Gochujang Sauce takes you on a flavorful journey that will ignite your taste buds. As the aroma of toasty sesame oil and garlic fills the air, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement—it’s pure comfort food that brings people together. Picture this: game nights or casual get-togethers transformed into a culinary adventure, all with just one irresistible dish.

These wings offer the perfect balance of crispy exterior and juicy tenderness, generously coated in a fiery, sticky sauce that harmonizes sweet and spicy notes. Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is a surefire way to elevate your dining experience. Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up on a whim! Let’s dive into how to create these finger-licking delights that are bound to become the life of the party!

Why are Spicy Korean Chicken Wings with Gochujang Sauce a Must-Try?

Irresistible flavor: The bold blend of gochujang, garlic, and honey creates a lip-smacking sauce that’s both sweet and spicy, making every bite unforgettable.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these wings are sure to be the highlight of any party, leaving your guests raving.
Crispy perfection: Baking instead of frying results in a crunchy, golden exterior without the guilt!
Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have restaurant-quality wings ready in under an hour.
Versatile dish: Whether served as an appetizer or main dish, they pair wonderfully with refreshing salads or stir-fried vegetables.
For more exciting ideas, check out our Serving Suggestions for complementing dishes!

Spicy Korean Chicken Wings Ingredients

For the Wings

Chicken Wings – Main protein source; provides a juicy and tender base for glazing. Opt for fresh wings for the best flavor and texture.
Vegetable Oil – Helps to achieve crispiness when baking the wings. Can substitute with canola or olive oil.
Salt – Enhances flavor. Use kosher salt for even distribution.
Black Pepper – Adds mild heat and depth. Freshly ground is preferable for a stronger flavor.

For the Gochujang Sauce

Gochujang (Korean chili paste) – Central flavor component, bringing spice and sweetness. Can substitute with sriracha for a less authentic but still spicy flavor.
Soy Sauce – Adds saltiness and depth of flavor. Use low-sodium versions for a healthier option.
Honey – Natural sweetener that balances the heat of gochujang. Maple syrup can substitute in a pinch.
Rice Vinegar – Provides acidity to enhance overall flavor. Apple cider vinegar can be a substitute.
Garlic – Freshly minced for stronger flavor; adds aromatic notes.
Sesame Oil – Adds a rich, nutty flavor. Can be replaced with olive oil, but will lose some traditional flavor.

For Garnish

Sesame Seeds – Adds crunch and visual appeal. Optional, but enhances presentation.
Green Onions – Fresh flavor addition; can substitute with chives for milder flavor.

Gather these ingredients for your Spicy Korean Chicken Wings with Gochujang Sauce, and let the cooking adventure begin!

How to Make Spicy Korean Chicken Wings with Gochujang Sauce

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to a crispy 425°F (220°C) to ensure those wings achieve the perfect crunch.
Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, then toss them in a bowl with vegetable oil, salt, and black pepper until they’re lovingly coated.
Bake Wings: Arrange your wings on a wire rack over a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, flip the wings, then bake for another 20-25 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.
Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Cook over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce has thickened beautifully.
Toss Wings in Sauce: Once the wings are out of the oven and sizzling, transfer them to a bowl and pour the thick sauce over them. Toss gently until they’re fully coated in that sticky goodness.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for a delightful finish. Serve immediately to enjoy the wings at their crispiest!

Optional: A splash of lime juice before serving adds a zesty kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Korean Chicken Wings with Gochujang Sauce are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can marinate the wings in the gochujang sauce mixture up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken. Additionally, you can bake the wings a day ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8-10 minutes for that deliciously crispy texture. For optimal flavor retention, toss the wings in the sauce just before serving. This way, you can enjoy restaurant-quality wings with minimal effort, making family meals or parties even easier!

What to Serve with Spicy Korean Chicken Wings with Gochujang Sauce?

To create the perfect spread for enjoying your delectable wings, consider these delightful pairings that enhance flavor and texture.

Cool Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad that balances the heat of the wings with its crispness and light dressing.
Savory Rice: Fluffy jasmine or sticky rice soaks up the wings’ sauce, providing a filling, satisfying foundation for your meal.
Spicy Kimchi: This traditional Korean side brings an extra kick of flavor with fermented notes that beautifully contrast the sweet wings.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: Stir-fried bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas add color and crunch, creating a vibrant and nutritious companion dish.
Creamy Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy elements of coleslaw work wonders to offset the spicy glaze, delivering a pleasant crunch that rounds out your plate.
Chilled Soba Noodles: These cold noodles tossed in sesame sauce provide a nutty flavor and chewy texture, making them a perfect companion to your spicy wings.
Korean Beer or Soju: To wash it all down, pair your wings with a light Korean beer or soju for a refreshing complement that enhances your meal experience.
Mochi Ice Cream: For dessert, indulge in sweet mochi ice cream. Its chewy texture encapsulates delicious flavors, offering a delightful contrast to the spicy wings.

These pairings equip your gathering with a bold, flavorful feast that will satisfy and impress everyone at the table!

Storage Tips for Spicy Korean Chicken Wings

Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain texture, place a paper towel inside the container to absorb excess moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncoated wings (before saucing) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge prior to baking for best results.

Reheating: To revive leftover wings, place them in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 8-10 minutes for crispy results. Avoid reheating in the microwave to prevent sogginess.

Avoid Saucing Early: If you decide to freeze wings, do not coat them with the gochujang sauce beforehand, as it will alter the texture upon thawing.

Spicy Korean Chicken Wings with Gochujang Sauce Variations

Feel free to customize these wings and elevate their flavor experience even further!

Milder Heat: Reduce the amount of gochujang or mix in some sriracha for a flavorful twist without the fire.
Zesty Finish: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the wings just before serving to brighten up the flavors with a tangy twist.
Crispy Drumsticks: Try substituting chicken wings with drumsticks for a heartier bite and a fun change of texture.
Coconut Aminos: Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos to make these wings soy-free while still maintaining a delicious umami flavor.
Sweet & Spicy: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the sauce for an extra layer of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the heat.

For a fun twist on serving, consider mixing up the sauce with different ingredients.

Sesame Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts, like peanuts or cashews, while mixing with the sauce for an added crunch that elevates the texture.
Garlic Lovers: For a more robust flavor, double the amount of garlic in the sauce to create an aromatic burst in every bite.
Hot & Spicy: If you’re looking for a real kick, add some red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chilies to the sauce for an extra heat boost.

Helpful Tricks for Spicy Korean Chicken Wings

Pat Dry: Ensure the chicken wings are thoroughly dried before seasoning. This step removes moisture and helps achieve that coveted crispy texture.
Cooking Rack: Use a wire rack over your baking sheet when baking. This allows hot air to circulate around the wings, enhancing crispiness on all sides.
Sauce Timing: Toss the wings in sauce immediately after baking. This keeps them crispy and allows the glaze to adhere perfectly to each wing.
Garnish Smart: Don’t skip the sesame seeds and green onions; they add not just flavor, but also beautiful visual appeal to your Spicy Korean Chicken Wings with Gochujang Sauce.
Reheat Right: If you have leftovers, reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy.

Spicy Korean Chicken Wings with Gochujang Sauce Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken wings should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Opt for fresh chicken wings as they provide the juiciest and most tender texture when cooked. I often choose wings that have a nice amount of fat, which helps keep them moist during baking.

How do I store leftover chicken wings?
Very simply! Place your leftover wings in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, I recommend inserting a paper towel inside the container to absorb excess moisture.

Can I freeze Spicy Korean Chicken Wings with Gochujang Sauce?
Yes, but with a twist! It’s best to freeze the uncoated wings before saucing. You can store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking to preserve their texture and flavor.

What should I do if my wings aren’t crispy enough?
If you find your wings lacking in crispiness, there are a couple of tricks. Make sure to pat them dry thoroughly before seasoning, as moisture will hinder crisping. Also, using a wire rack over the baking sheet allows airflow around the wings, enhancing their crispiness. If they still aren’t crispy, you could broil them for a couple of minutes at the end for that perfect finish.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, while this recipe is a delightful treat, if someone in your household has allergies or dietary restrictions, be mindful of the ingredients. Gochujang typically contains gluten, so you may want to seek out a gluten-free version or substitute with sriracha. Additionally, always double-check honey if you’re cooking for someone who avoids animal products, as it is not vegan.