If you're in the mood for wings that pack a punch, look no further than these Korean Spicy Garlic-Butter Chicken Wings. With their crispy texture and bold flavors, they're sure to become a favorite. Perfect for game day or a casual dinner, these wings are guaranteed to impress.
The secret to these wings is in the details. The chicken wings form the heart of the dish, providing a juicy and tender base. A mixture of all-purpose flour and cornstarch gives the wings their crispiness, while salt and black pepper bring out their natural flavors. The unsalted butter ensures a rich and creamy sauce, and garlic adds that unmistakable aromatic punch. Gochujang, a Korean chili paste, brings a unique blend of spicy, sweet, and savory notes. Soy sauce deepens the umami flavor, while honey adds a touch of sweetness to balance the heat. Rice vinegar contributes a slight tang, and sesame oil rounds out the sauce with a nutty aroma. Finally, green onions and sesame seeds provide a fresh, crunchy garnish.
These wings pair beautifully with a light, refreshing salad to balance out the richness. Try serving alongside a Korean cucumber salad or some pickled vegetables. For a more substantial meal, consider adding steamed rice and sautéed greens.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent your wings from sticking and make cleanup easier. In a bowl, mix together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and black pepper. Dredge each chicken wing in this mixture, making sure it's well-coated. Give each wing a little shake to remove any excess coating.
Arrange the coated wings on your prepared baking sheet. Pop them into the oven and let them bake for 40-45 minutes. Halfway through, flip the wings to ensure even cooking and crispiness on both sides. While the wings are baking, let's move on to the sauce.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it's melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it until it's fragrant—this should take about a minute. Stir in the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Let this mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to meld all the flavors together.
Once your wings are beautifully golden and crispy, remove them from the oven. Toss them in the saucepan, making sure each wing is thoroughly coated with that delicious sauce. For a finishing touch, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top before serving.