There’s something truly exhilarating about the combination of spicy and tangy flavors that dance in your mouth with every bite of these Sticky Gochujang Wings. As the warm aroma fills your kitchen, it’s impossible not to feel an immediate sense of comfort and excitement. I discovered this recipe on a whim, searching for a way to bring a little bit of Korean flair to my dinner table, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer.
Picture this: juicy chicken wings coated in a rich gochujang glaze that’s sweet, spicy, and utterly irresistible, paired with a creamy kimchi ranch that adds an unexpected twist to the classic dipping sauce. Whether it’s game day, a cozy family dinner, or just a craving for something homemade and delicious, these wings are sure to impress.
This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s also about ease. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can elevate your weeknight meals from ordinary to extraordinary. So grab your apron and let’s dive into making these mouthwatering Sticky Gochujang Wings with Kimchi Ranch that your taste buds won’t soon forget!
Why are Sticky Gochujang Wings With Kimchi Ranch a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavors: The fusion of spicy gochujang and creamy kimchi ranch creates a unique taste sensation, making every bite an adventure.
Quick preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time and simple ingredients, you’ll have a delectable dish ready in no time.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these wings are guaranteed to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish paired with rice or veggies for a complete meal.
Air fryer or oven: Whether you prefer the convenience of an air fryer or the classic oven method, this recipe adapts to your cooking style effortlessly. Experience this flavor explosion, and don’t forget to check out my tips for perfectly crispy chicken wings to elevate your cooking further!
Sticky Gochujang Wings Ingredients
Get ready for an explosion of flavor with these Sticky Gochujang Wings!
For the Chicken Wings
• 750g chicken wings – Choose fresh wings for the best texture and flavor.
• 50g corn flour – This helps achieve the crispy texture that every wing lover craves.
• 1 tsp baking powder – A little secret ingredient that boosts the wings’ crunchiness.
• Generous pinch fine sea salt – Enhances the savory taste of the chicken.
• Generous pinch pepper – Adds a subtle kick to complement the flavors.
For the Marinade
• 1 Tbsp sesame oil – Infuses a lovely nutty flavor into your wings.
• 1 1/2 tsp soy sauce – Balances out the sweetness with its umami goodness.
• 3 cloves grated garlic – Offers a robust aroma that elevates your dish.
• 3cm piece ginger, finely grated – Adds a zesty hint to the marinade.
• 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar – Sweetens and caramelizes beautifully when cooked.
• 2 Tbsp gochujang – The star of the show, giving that signature spicy kick!
• 1 1/2 Tbsp water – To thin out the marinade for easy coating.
For the Kimchi Ranch
• 1/4 cup sour cream – Provides creamy richness and a slight tanginess.
• 2 Tbsp buttermilk – Helps thin the ranch for a perfect dipping consistency.
• 1 Tbsp mayo – Adds extra creaminess and depth of flavor.
• 1 spring onion, finely chopped – Freshness that brightens up the ranch.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder – A sprinkle brings more garlic love to the dip.
• 1 Tbsp chopped parsley – For a pop of color and herbal freshness.
• 30g kimchi, finely chopped – The delightful unexpected twist in your dipping experience.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s spice up your dinner table with these delightful Sticky Gochujang Wings and creamy kimchi ranch!
How to Make Sticky Gochujang Wings
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Prepare the wings: Start by trimming the chicken wings—remove the tips and slice through the joint to separate them into drumettes and wingettes. This helps with even cooking and makes them easier to handle.
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Marinate the wings: In a small bowl, mix together the sesame oil, soy sauce, grated garlic, grated ginger, brown sugar, and gochujang for the marinade. Microwave the mixture until the sugar dissolves. Pour the marinade over the wings, ensuring they’re well-coated, and let them sit for at least 15 minutes or ideally overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor.
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Coat the wings: Combine the corn flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Once marinated, dust the wings in this corn flour mixture to create that crispy outer layer when cooked.
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Air fryer method: Place the wings in the air fryer basket, set it to 185°C (365°F), and cook for 10 minutes. Afterward, turn the wings and increase the temperature to 200°C (392°F) and cook for an additional 10 minutes until they are crispy.
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Oven method: Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Place the wings on a wire rack over a baking tray to allow airflow. Bake for 30-35 minutes, turning them halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
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Make the glaze: While the wings are cooking, combine gochujang, sesame oil, grated ginger, brown sugar, and water in a bowl. Microwave until the sugar is dissolved and you’ve got a smooth glaze ready to drizzle.
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Prepare the kimchi ranch: In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, buttermilk, mayo, chopped spring onion, garlic powder, parsley, and kimchi. Stir well until everything is nicely blended into a creamy dip.
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Serve the wings: Once cooked, transfer the wings to a bowl, drizzle the Gochujang glaze over them, and toss to coat every piece in that delicious sticky sauce. Serve them hot with the kimchi ranch on the side for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Sticky Gochujang Wings
Marination magic: Allow the chicken wings to marinate overnight for a deeper, richer flavor that will enhance the overall taste of your Sticky Gochujang Wings.
Crispy coating: Dust wings thoroughly with the corn flour mixture to achieve extra crunch. Don’t skip this step; it’s key for that desirable texture!
Air fryer energy: If using an air fryer, avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can result in uneven cooking and less crispy wings.
Timing is key: Keep an eye on the wings while baking in the oven. Ovens vary, so adjust cooking time as necessary for perfect crispiness.
Balance with dip: The creaminess of the kimchi ranch balances the spice of the gochujang beautifully. Don’t be stingy with the dip—it’s the perfect complement!
Embrace these tips for the ultimate Sticky Gochujang Wings experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Sticky Gochujang Wings with Kimchi Ranch are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can marinate the chicken wings up to 24 hours in advance, which enhances the flavor significantly. Simply mix the marinade, coat the wings, and refrigerate them in an airtight container until you’re ready to cook. The kimchi ranch can also be prepared up to 3 days in advance; just keep it chilled in the fridge to maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, cook the wings as instructed—either in the air fryer or oven—and toss them in the Gochujang glaze just before serving. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Sticky Gochujang Wings With Kimchi Ranch?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides and pairings that truly complement these deliciously sticky wings.
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Crispy Fried Rice: The savory flavors of fried rice make for a satisfying contrast to the spicy wings and add a comforting element to the meal.
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Fresh Cucumber Salad: A light, crisp cucumber salad provides a refreshing crunch and balances the heat from the gochujang beautifully.
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Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet and salty fries add a delightful texture and depth to your plate, perfectly paired with the tangy kimchi ranch.
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Spicy Korean Noodles: For a fusion flair, serve with spicy Korean noodles; their chewy texture and zesty flavor make each bite a heavenly delight.
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Pickled Vegetables: The tanginess of pickled veggies can cut through the richness of the wings, offering a perfect acidic counterpoint.
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Beer or Soju: Complement your meal with a cold beer or a glass of soju, enhancing the vibrant flavors while keeping things relaxed and enjoyable.
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Cheesy Corn Bake: This creamy, cheesy dish adds a comforting richness and pairs wonderfully with the spicy notes of the wings.
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Classic Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a fresh and tangy element, making each bite of the wings even more satisfying.
No matter what you choose, these pairings set the stage for a delightful feast that makes your Sticky Gochujang Wings truly shine!
How to Store and Freeze Sticky Gochujang Wings
Fridge: Store leftover Sticky Gochujang Wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked wings in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen wings, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. This helps maintain the flavor and texture.
Reheating Tips: Reheat wings from the fridge in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy.
Sticky Gochujang Wings Variations
Feel free to get creative with these tips to customize your tasty wings and elevate your dining experience!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute corn flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish without worries.
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Sweet & Spicy: Add a splash of honey or maple syrup to the gochujang marinade for an extra layer of sweetness that beautifully balances the spice.
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Extra Crunchy: For a delightful twist on texture, coat the wings with crushed cornflakes before air frying or baking for an added crunch.
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Spicy Twist: Amp up the heat by adding chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade. Each bite will be irresistibly fiery!
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the kimchi ranch for a refreshing twist that will brighten up the flavors.
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Creamy Alternatives: Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, probiotic-rich dip that still delivers creaminess alongside the kimchi.
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Baked Version: Skip the frying entirely by gently brushing the wings with olive oil before baking for a lighter, yet still delicious, option.
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Tangy Kick: Incorporate a splash of vinegar or lemon juice into the kimchi ranch for a zesty pop that balances the richness beautifully.
Get inspired and tailor these wings to your taste; there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy these lovely bites!
Sticky Gochujang Wings With Kimchi Ranch Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken wings?
Absolutely! Look for fresh chicken wings that have a pinkish hue with minimal dark spots. The best wings are firm to the touch, and avoid any that have an off smell. If possible, opt for organic or free-range wings for better flavor and texture.
How long can I store leftover Sticky Gochujang Wings?
You can store your leftover Sticky Gochujang Wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes to get that crispy texture back!
Can I freeze these wings?
Very! To freeze Sticky Gochujang Wings, let them cool completely, then lay them out in a single layer on a baking tray. Place the tray in the freezer until they are frozen solid (about 1-2 hours), then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. These can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
What should I do if my wings aren’t crispy?
No worries! If your wings come out less crispy than you’d like, check a couple of things. First, make sure to dust them well in the corn flour mixture before cooking, as this creates that desired crunch. If they still lack crispiness, increase the cooking time slightly or ensure they have enough space in the air fryer or oven for proper airflow.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Absolutely! If you have pets, avoid giving them the Sticky Gochujang Wings due to the seasoning, especially the gochujang, which can be spicy. For allergies, check for ingredients like soy sauce or garlic. If you’re serving these to guests, it’s always a good idea to check for dietary restrictions beforehand!
How do I prepare the kimchi ranch for varying preferences?
To cater to taste preferences, you can easily adjust the kimchi ranch. Start by mixing the base of sour cream, buttermilk, and mayo. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of kimchi or substitute it with a different kind of pickled vegetable. To switch it up, add in a splash of lemon juice or different herbs based on your liking. Remember, the more the merrier in terms of flavors!
Sticky Gochujang Wings With Kimchi Ranch for Flavor Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the wings by trimming and separating into drumettes and wingettes.
- In a bowl, mix sesame oil, soy sauce, grated garlic, ginger, brown sugar, and gochujang for marinade.
- Marinate the wings for at least 15 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Coat wings in corn flour mixture for a crispy outer layer.
- For air fryer: Cook wings at 185°C (365°F) for 10 minutes, flip, then cook at 200°C (392°F) for another 10 minutes.
- For oven: Bake wings at 200°C (392°F) on a wire rack for 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Make the glaze by combining gochujang, sesame oil, ginger, brown sugar, and water; microwave until smooth.
- In a bowl, combine sour cream, buttermilk, mayo, spring onion, garlic powder, parsley, and kimchi for kimchi ranch.
- Serve wings hot, drizzled with glaze and kimchi ranch on the side for dipping.