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Korean-style grilled wings with refreshing cucumber-kimchi salad

These Korean-style grilled wings are a delightful high-protein dish that showcases the vibrant flavours of Korean cuisine. Marinated in a savoury blend of pear juice, reduced-salt soy sauce, and gochugaru, the chicken wings are grilled to perfection, offering a tantalising combination of heat and sweetness. The addition of fresh ginger and garlic elevates the dish, making it a standout choice for any gathering or casual dinner.

Ideal for a weekend barbecue or a satisfying midweek meal, these wings pair beautifully with a refreshing cucumber-kimchi salad. With their crispy skin and tender meat, they not only provide a protein-packed option but also a taste of the exotic. Serve them alongside steamed rice and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a complete, wholesome experience that brings the essence of Korean flavours to your table.

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Ingredients for Korean-style grilled wings with cucumber-kimchi salad

  • 60 ml pear juice or apple juice

  • 45 ml reduced-salt soy sauce or tamari

  • 30 g gochugaru (Korean hot pepper flakes) or 7.5 g crushed red pepper flakes

  • 30 ml toasted sesame oil

  • 15 g finely grated fresh ginger (from one 5 cm piece)

  • 5 g light brown sugar

  • 2 garlic cloves, coarsely chopped

  • 900 g chicken wings, flats and drumettes attached or separated

  • 10 g kosher salt, divided

  • 4 Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced

  • 240 ml kimchi, thinly sliced

  • 30 ml rice vinegar

  • 4 spring onions, thinly sliced, divided

  • toasted sesame seeds and steamed rice (for serving)

How to make Korean-style grilled wings with cucumber-kimchi salad

  1. Blend the pear juice, soy sauce, gochugaru, sesame oil, ginger, brown sugar, and garlic in a blender until smooth.

  2. Season the chicken wings on all sides with 1 teaspoon of salt. Transfer the wings to a large resealable bag.

  3. Pour two-thirds of the marinade over the chicken in the bag, seal it, and toss to coat the wings.

  4. Transfer the remaining marinade to a small bowl and chill it in the fridge. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for at least 20 minutes or refrigerate overnight for best results.

  5. Prepare the grill for medium heat or heat a grill pan over medium heat. Grill the wings in batches if necessary, turning occasionally, until the skin is crisp and lightly charred, about 15–20 minutes.

  6. Meanwhile, allow the reserved marinade to come to room temperature. In a large bowl, toss the cucumbers, kimchi, vinegar, all but a small handful of scallions (set aside for topping), and the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt. Let the mixture sit for 10–20 minutes.

  7. Top the salad with sesame seeds.

  8. Transfer the grilled wings to a medium bowl. Add the reserved marinade and toss to combine.

  9. Serve the wings alongside the cucumber-kimchi salad and rice, garnishing with the reserved scallions on top.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 30 Oct 2025 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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