If you love classic BBQ wings but want to spice things up (literally), these smoky gochujang BBQ wings might just be your new obsession. Think deep, slow-smoked flavor meets sweet and spicy Korean-style glaze. With a crunchy, tangy slaw to cool it all down. It’s fusion in the best way possible! Southern technique, Korean kick, backyard-grill approved.
Why Gochujang?
Gochujng is a fermented Korean chili paste that brings heat, umami, and a touch of sweetness. It’s not overwhelmingly spicy. It’s the kind of flavor that builds and lingers in the best way. When paired with smoke and char from the grill, it transforms regular wings into something unforgettable.
- Prep the Wings
Pat the wings dry (this helps them crisp). Toss them with olive oil, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Let them sit while you prep your grill or smoker.
- Set Up for Smoking
If you’re using a smoker, heat it to 250°F and toss in a handful of woodchips. For a charcoal grill, set up a two-zone fire and add soaked wood chips to the hot side. Gas grill? Use a smoker box or wrap wood chips in foil with holes.
Place wings on the cooler side of the grill. Cover and smoke for about 1.5 hours, flipping halfway through. Internal temp should hit 175°F for juicy, tender meat.
- Make the Gochujang BBQ Sauce
While the wings are smoking, stir all the sauce ingredients together in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until thick and glossy. Set aside.
- Pickle the Slaw
Combine rice, vinegar, sugar, salt, and sesame oil in a bowl. Add cabbage, daikon, and scallions. Toss to coat and chill in the fridge. This slaw gets better the longer it sits.
- Finish the Wings
Once the wings are smoked through, brush them generously with the gochuhjang BBQ sauce and move them to the hot side of the grill. Sear for 1-2 minutes per side to carmelize the glaze. Watch closely, it’ll char quickly.
- Serve it Up
Pile the wings high and serve with a scoop of that crunchy, tangy, scallion slaw. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if you’re feeling extra. Cold beer or sparkling water on the side? Strongly recommended.
These wings are a hit for summer cookouts, but honestly, they’re great any time you want to show off a little. Just be prepared, people will ask for the recipe.
8 Comments
This recipe was a hit at our weekend barbecue! The chicken was so tender and flavorful, and the marinade had just the right amount of spice. The bell peppers and onions added a nice crunch. Everyone loved it, and I’ll definitely be making this again!
5 out of 5
I tried these skewers last night, and they turned out amazing! The marinade infused the chicken with incredible flavor, and the grilling gave it a perfect char. Served them with tzatziki and pita bread – absolutely delicious!
5 out of 5
I completely agree! I made these skewers for dinner last weekend, and they were such a hit. The marinade really brings out the best flavors, and the tzatziki pairing was perfect. This recipe is definitely going into my regular rotation!
5 out of 5
Same here! The flavors from the marinade were fantastic, and the grilling gave the chicken that delicious charred taste. I served mine with warm pita and a fresh cucumber salad – it was a winner. Can’t wait to make them again!
5 out of 5
These grilled chicken skewers were easy to make and tasted fantastic. The lemon and garlic marinade really made the flavors pop. I loved how juicy the chicken was, and the veggies added great texture. My whole family enjoyed them!
4 out of 5
I’m always looking for new grilling recipes, and this one did not disappoint! The marinade was so flavorful, and the chicken came out juicy and perfectly cooked. A perfect dish for summer cookouts. Highly recommend trying this recipe!
5 out of 5
This recipe was simple to follow and yielded such delicious results. The chicken was moist, and the marinade gave it a nice kick without being too spicy. Paired it with a fresh salad, and it made for a perfect meal. Five stars!
4 out of 5
The recipe was good, but it didn’t quite wow me. The marinade had nice flavors, but I found the spice level a bit too mild for my taste. The chicken was tender, but the vegetables could have been more charred. It’s a decent dish, but I might tweak the seasoning next time to give it more punch.
5 out of 5