Gusto TV Korean Fried Chicken and Grilled Corn Recipe - Crispy Wings with Spicy-Sweet Sauce and Charred Corn

Korean Fried Chicken and Grilled Corn Recipe

This Korean Fried Chicken and Grilled Corn recipe combines golden, crispy chicken wings coated in a spicy-sweet Korean sauce with smoky, charred corn for a vibrant and flavorful meal. Featured on A is for Apple 2, this dish delivers the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and crunch, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or entertaining friends. The combination of sparkling water in the batter, Korean red pepper paste in the sauce, and smoky grilled corn creates a playful yet sophisticated take on a classic comfort-food favorite.

The Inspiration

Korean fried chicken, or “yangnyeom chicken,” has become a global favorite due to its ultra-crispy exterior and bold, flavorful sauces. The inspiration for this recipe comes from modern Korean street food, where perfectly fried wings are coated in sauces that range from sweet to fiery. The show A is for Apple 2 highlights approachable, flavor-packed recipes that can be recreated at home, and this dish embodies that philosophy.

Adding grilled corn as a side introduces a smoky, slightly spicy contrast that complements the wings. The cayenne and olive oil coating enhances the natural sweetness of fresh corn, while the char from the grill adds depth. Together, the crispy, saucy wings and the grilled corn create a dynamic combination of textures and flavors, perfect for sharing with family or friends.

Ingredients

Grilled Corn

2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
2 tablespoons (30ml) cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon (0.5ml) salt
4 ears of corn, shucked

Method

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, cayenne and salt.
Brush oil mixture over the corn.
Heat grill pan over high heat.
Once corn is properly coated with oil and spices, place on hot grill.
Cook on all sides for 2-3 minutes each.
Once corn is slightly charred all around, remove from grill.
Keep warm, and reserve for plating.

Ingredients

Korean Fried Chicken

Oil for frying (peanut, canola or vegetable)
2/3 cup (160ml) cornstarch
2/3 cup (160ml) all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
1 teaspoon (5ml) baking powder
1 teaspoon (5ml) salt
½ teaspoon (3ml) ground black pepper
1 cup (240ml) chilled sparkling water
2 lbs. (900g) chicken wings

Sauce

1 garlic clove, finely grated
2 teaspoons (10ml) finely grated ginger
½ cup (120ml) soy sauce
2 tablespoons (30ml) brown sugar
3 tablespoons (45ml) Korean red pepper paste
1 tablespoon (15ml) sesame seeds
Grilled corn (see recipe)

Method

Preheat frying oil to 350 degrees.
In a large mixing bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
Add chilled sparkling water and whisk until batter is smooth.
Piece by piece, lightly dust wings with flour, and then dip in the batter.
Once wings are properly battered, place in the oil.
Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Once the wings are fully cooked, remove from the oil.
Place wings on a paper towel to remove excess liquid.
Repeat process until all chicken wings have been cooked.
To make the sauce, in a separate mixing bowl whisk together garlic, ginger, soy sauce, brown sugar and Korean red pepper paste.
Toss crispy wings in the sauce until completely coated.
Serve wings hot and garnish with sesame seeds.
Serve warm grilled corn (see recipe) on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Korean Fried Chicken and Grilled Corn is best served immediately while the wings are hot and crispy and the corn is smoky and tender. Pair with chilled beverages such as beer, sparkling water, or a lightly sweetened iced tea to balance the heat of the sauce. For a full meal, serve with pickled vegetables or a crisp cabbage slaw to cut through the richness of the wings. The grilled corn can be sliced off the cob or served whole, making it fun and interactive for family dinners or casual gatherings. These bold, flavor-packed dishes are perfect for entertaining—whether for game day, summer cookouts, or weeknight indulgences, they deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

Final Thoughts

This Korean Fried Chicken and Grilled Corn recipe is a celebration of texture, spice, and flavor. Featured on A is for Apple 2, it brings together crispy fried wings, sweet and spicy sauce, and smoky grilled corn in a way that’s both visually striking and delicious. The combination of crunchy, juicy, and charred elements ensures that every bite is satisfying. With this recipe, home cooks can enjoy restaurant-quality Korean fried chicken without leaving the kitchen. Ideal for dinner parties, casual weeknight meals, or entertaining guests, this dish proves that bold flavors and approachable techniques can coexist beautifully.

Find more recipes from A is for Apple here!