Air Fryer Korean Chicken Wings Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with these incredibly crispy air fryer Korean chicken wings that deliver restaurant-quality flavor right in your kitchen! These sticky, sweet, and spicy wings combine the perfect balance of gochujang heat with honey sweetness, creating an addictive glaze that’ll have everyone coming back for more.
What makes this recipe truly special is how the air fryer creates that coveted crispy exterior while keeping the meat juicy and tender inside.
Unlike my popular buffalo chicken wings recipe, these Korean-style wings bring an exciting Asian twist that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Ready to transform your wing game forever?
Table of Contents
What Are Air Fryer Korean Chicken Wings?
Ever wondered why Korean chicken wings have taken the culinary world by storm? These aren’t just any ordinary wings – they’re a perfect fusion of Korean flavors and American comfort food! The secret lies in the glossy, caramelized coating that’s both sweet and fiery.
As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these wings definitely prove that point! Ready to become the wing master of your household?
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Korean Chicken Wings Recipe
The Perfect Crispy-to-Juicy Ratio These air fryer Korean chicken wings deliver that satisfying crunch you crave without any greasy mess. The circulating hot air creates an incredibly crispy skin that rivals deep-fried wings, while the meat stays perfectly juicy and tender.
Budget-Friendly Restaurant Flavors at Home Skip the expensive takeout orders! Making these wings at home costs a fraction of restaurant prices while delivering the same authentic Korean flavors. You’ll save money and impress your family with your culinary skills.
Irresistible Sweet and Spicy Glaze The star of this recipe is the addictive Korean glaze made with gochujang, soy sauce, honey, and garlic. It creates a beautiful glossy coating that’s sticky, sweet, and has just the right amount of heat. Unlike my honey garlic wings, these pack more complex flavors that’ll keep you reaching for more.
Ready to make restaurant-quality Korean wings in your own kitchen? Let’s get cooking!
How to Make Air Fryer Korean Chicken Wings
Quick Overview
This recipe transforms ordinary chicken wings into extraordinary Korean-style masterpieces using just an air fryer. The key to success is the double-cook method and that incredible Korean glaze.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Korean Chicken Wings
For the Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Korean Glaze:
- 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Wings
Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin. In a large bowl, toss the wings with baking powder, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until evenly coated.
Step 2: First Air Fry Session
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Place the seasoned wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 3: Make the Korean Glaze
While the wings cook, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Thicken the Glaze
Add the cornstarch slurry to the simmering glaze and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until it thickens to a glossy consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 5: Second Air Fry Session
Increase air fryer temperature to 400°F (204°C). Cook the wings for an additional 8-10 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Glaze the Wings
Transfer the hot wings to a large bowl and immediately pour the Korean glaze over them. Toss gently until all wings are evenly coated with the glossy sauce.
Step 7: Final Crisp
Return the glazed wings to the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to set the glaze and add extra crispiness.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
What to Serve Air Fryer Korean Chicken Wings With
Asian-Inspired Sides:
- Steamed jasmine rice or Korean short-grain rice
- Asian cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing
- Kimchi for an authentic Korean experience
- Pickled daikon radish
Complementary Vegetables:
- Roasted baby bok choy with garlic
- Stir-fried snow peas and carrots
- Korean spinach salad (sigeumchi namul)
Refreshing Beverages:
- Ice-cold Korean beer or light lager
- Cucumber mint agua fresca
- Iced green tea with honey
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Korean Chicken Wings
Use Baking Powder for Extra Crispiness
The secret to restaurant-quality crispy skin is baking powder, not baking soda. It raises the pH level of the chicken skin, helping it brown and crisp up beautifully.
Don’t Skip the Drying Step
Thoroughly pat wings dry before seasoning. Any moisture will prevent proper crisping and create steam instead of that coveted crunch.
Adjust Spice Level to Your Preference
Start with 2 tablespoons of gochujang if you’re sensitive to heat. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away once it’s mixed.
Make Double Batches of Glaze
The Korean glaze is incredibly versatile and stores well. Make extra to use on grilled chicken, pork, or even as a dipping sauce for vegetables.
Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer
Cook wings in batches if necessary. Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation and results in unevenly cooked wings.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The glaze may lose some stickiness but the flavor remains delicious.
Freezing Instructions: Freeze cooked wings in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze wings before glazing and add fresh glaze when reheating.
Reheating Methods:
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness
- Oven: Bake at 375°F for 8-10 minutes on a wire rack
- Avoid microwave: This will make the wings soggy
Pro Tip: If reheating glazed wings, brush with a little extra glaze before reheating to refresh the flavors.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (4 wings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 |
| Protein | 24g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Saturated Fat | 4g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 890mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 10g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry thoroughly. Frozen wings will add extra cooking time and may not crisp up as well.
What can I substitute for gochujang if I can’t find it?
Mix 2 tablespoons sriracha with 1 tablespoon miso paste and 1 teaspoon brown sugar. While not identical, it provides similar sweet-spicy flavors.
How do I know when the wings are fully cooked?
Wings are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! The glaze can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Gently reheat before using.
Why are my wings not crispy enough?
Ensure wings are completely dry before seasoning, don’t overcrowd the air fryer, and make sure your air fryer is properly preheated.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook the wings in batches to avoid overcrowding. The glaze recipe scales up perfectly.
What’s the best way to serve these for a party?
Keep wings warm in a slow cooker on low heat, or serve immediately and let guests know more batches are coming!
Additional Tips for Success
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Gochujang alternatives: Sriracha mixed with brown sugar and soy sauce
- Rice vinegar substitute: Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
- Honey alternatives: Maple syrup or brown sugar
Flavor Variations:
- Add 1 tablespoon of pineapple juice for tropical sweetness
- Include 1 teaspoon of five-spice powder for depth
- Mix in 1 tablespoon of Korean pear juice for authentic flavor
Make-Ahead Tips: Season wings and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor penetration. The glaze can be prepared days in advance and reheated when needed.
These air fryer Korean chicken wings are guaranteed to become your new favorite wing recipe. The combination of crispy texture and bold Korean flavors creates an irresistible dish that’s perfect for game day, parties, or any time you’re craving something special. Give this recipe a try and watch as it becomes a regular request in your household!
