Name: Korean Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken wings; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce; 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic; 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger; 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chile paste) (or sambal oelek, or sriracha, plus additional to taste); 2 teaspoons sesame oil; Chopped green onions (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish)

When it comes to chicken wings, there’s a world of flavors to explore, but none quite hit the mark like Korean Air Fryer Chicken Wings. These delicious bites are sticky, spicy, and packed full of umami flavor, making them the perfect appetizer or main dish for any gathering. The air fryer brings out the crispy texture without the need for excessive oil, making them a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Trust me, once you try these wings, you’ll want to make them a regular on your dining table!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These Korean Air Fryer Chicken Wings are not just a one-time dish; they’re a flavor-packed experience that you’ll crave over and over again. The combination of sweet maple syrup, savory soy sauce, and a hint of spice from gochujang creates a mouthwatering glaze that coats each wing perfectly. Plus, the air frying method ensures that the wings are crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. They come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, game day snacks, or impressing guests at a party.

What to Buy

To make these Korean Air Fryer Chicken Wings, you’ll need to gather a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound chicken wings
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic
2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red chile paste) or sambal oelek, or sriracha, plus additional to taste
2 teaspoons sesame oil
Chopped green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you dive into the cooking process, make sure you have the following gear on hand:

Air fryer – the star of the show, ensuring crispy wings without the added oil.
Mixing bowl – for combining your marinade ingredients.
Tongs – for flipping and serving the wings with ease.
Measuring spoons – to get those ingredient quantities just right.
Sharp knife – for chopping green onions and preparing any additional toppings.

Mastering Korean Air Fryer Chicken Wings: How-To

Now that you have your ingredients and gear ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to create the perfect Korean Air Fryer Chicken Wings:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the kosher salt, low sodium soy sauce, pure maple syrup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, gochujang, and sesame oil. Whisk until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Wings

Add the chicken wings to the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or tongs to coat each wing thoroughly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the wings to a resealable bag, and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for ensuring your wings cook evenly and get that beautiful crispy texture.

Step 4: Cook the Wings

Remove the wings from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Place the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step 5: Air Fry

Cook the wings for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model. You want the wings to be golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, carefully remove the wings from the air fryer. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation. Serve with extra gochujang or your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

Seasonal Twists

Feeling creative? Here are some seasonal twists you can try with your Korean Air Fryer Chicken Wings:

Fall: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar and a sprinkle of cinnamon to the marinade for a warm, autumnal flavor.
Winter: Incorporate a bit of orange juice and zest for a citrusy brightness that complements the rich flavors.
Spring: Mix in some fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for a refreshing twist.
Summer: Toss in some pineapple juice and chunks for a sweet and tangy glaze.

Pro Tips & Notes

For extra crispy wings, pat them dry with paper towels before marinating to remove excess moisture.
Feel free to adjust the level of spice by adding more or less gochujang according to your taste preference.
If you like a sticky glaze, reserve some of the marinade before adding the wings and brush it on during the last few minutes of cooking.
Serve with a side of pickled vegetables to balance out the rich flavors of the wings.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover Korean Air Fryer Chicken Wings (which is rare, but can happen!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Storing: Place cooled wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. They will last for about 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen wings in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. For refrigerated wings, reheat at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

Handy Q&A

Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! While wings are traditional, you can use drumsticks or even boneless chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for different cuts.

What if I don’t have gochujang?

If gochujang isn’t available, sambal oelek or sriracha can be excellent substitutes. They will give you a similar heat, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.

Can I make the wings ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the wings a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.

What should I serve with Korean Air Fryer Chicken Wings?

These wings pair beautifully with rice, a crisp salad, or even some fresh veggies and dipping sauces. You can also serve them with beer or a fruity cocktail for a complete experience!

Hungry for More?

If you’re loving these Korean Air Fryer Chicken Wings and want to explore more Asian-inspired dishes, why not try some homemade sushi rolls or a comforting bowl of ramen? The world of flavors is vast and exciting, and there’s so much more to discover.

These Korean Air Fryer Chicken Wings are sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing (or not!). With every bite, you’ll savor the sweet, spicy, and savory notes that make these wings irresistible. So fire up that air fryer and get ready for a culinary adventure!