Name: Korean Fried Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, cut into 1 inch pieces); 1 large egg (beaten); ½ cup cornstarch; vegetable oil vegetable oil (for frying); 3 tablespoons butter (unsalted); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (minced); ¼ cup honey; ¼ cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 tablespoons gochujang; green onions; toasted sesame seeds; red chilis (sliced)

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I still remember the first time I made Korean Fried Chicken at home. It was one of those evenings where I craved something crispy, spicy, and utterly satisfying. I thought about ordering takeout, but then I realized I could whip up this delicious dish right in my kitchen. The aroma of frying chicken filled the air, and soon enough, my family gathered around the kitchen, drawn in by the enticing scent. Watching them eagerly anticipate the first bite made the whole experience even more special. With every crunch, I could see their eyes light up. This Korean Fried Chicken has become a staple in our home, loved for its crispy coating and flavorful sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! So, let’s dive into how to bring this restaurant favorite right to your dining table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
32 g

Diet:
Whole30, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
12-inch Cast Iron Skillet, Glass Mixing Bowl Set (3 piece)

The Beauty of This Korean Fried Chicken

It’s Irresistibly Crispy

The secret lies in using cornstarch instead of flour. This simple swap creates a lighter, crispier coating that holds up beautifully even when tossed in sauce. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite of that satisfying crunch.

Flavor Explosion

This recipe is not just about the crunch; it’s bursting with flavor. The combination of ginger, garlic, and the unique kick from gochujang gives this dish its signature taste. Each piece of chicken is coated in a velvety sauce that balances sweet, spicy, and savory notes perfectly.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, Korean Fried Chicken fits right in. It’s a crowd-pleaser that impresses without requiring hours of work in the kitchen. Serve it with some rice and vegetables, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Freeze

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. You can prepare the sauce a few days in advance and store it in the fridge. Plus, the fried chicken freezes beautifully. Just make sure to freeze it without the sauce to maintain its crunchiness, and it can be your go-to meal on busy nights.

A Healthier Alternative

This recipe allows you to control the ingredients, making it a healthier alternative to typical takeout. You can adjust the sweetness, spice, and even use chicken thighs for a juicier bite. This way, you can indulge in your cravings without the guilt!

Family Fun

Making Korean Fried Chicken can also be a fun family activity. Involving your kids in the process of dredging and frying gives them the opportunity to learn in the kitchen. It’s a great way to bond while creating something delicious together.

What You Need for Korean Fried Chicken

For this Korean Fried Chicken, the ingredients play a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each component complements the others, ensuring a dish that is delectable and satisfying. Let’s explore what you need to get started.

2 pounds of chicken breasts (boneless and skinless, cut into 1 inch pieces) – The star of this recipe, the chicken will absorb all those delicious flavors beautifully.
1 large egg (beaten) – This acts as a binding agent for the cornstarch, ensuring a crispy coating.
½ cup cornstarch – This is the key to that extra crunch!
Vegetable oil (for frying) – Essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
3 tablespoons butter (unsalted) – Adds a rich flavor to the sauce.
4 cloves garlic (minced) – Provides aromatic depth to the dish.
1 tablespoon fresh ginger (minced) – Adds a zesty kick that complements the other flavors.
¼ cup honey – Sweetness that balances the heat.
¼ cup brown sugar – Enhances the caramelization and adds more depth of flavor.
2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium) – Brings in that essential umami flavor.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Adds acidity for a balanced taste.
1 tablespoon sesame oil – Delivers that nutty flavor characteristic of Korean cuisine.
2 tablespoons gochujang – This Korean chili paste is a must for heat and flavor!
Green onions – For garnish and a fresh touch.
Toasted sesame seeds – Adds crunch and visual appeal.
Red chilis (sliced) – Optional, but they give an extra kick!

How to Make Korean Fried Chicken

Creating your own Korean Fried Chicken is a rewarding experience that’s easier than you might think. The steps are straightforward, and soon enough, you’ll have a plate full of crispy, flavorful chicken ready to enjoy. Let’s get started!

Toss the chicken pieces through the egg first, ensuring they’re evenly coated. This step is critical for the cornstarch to stick later on.
Prepare your frying pan by adding about 3 inches of vegetable oil and heat it to 375°F. You want the oil hot enough to give the chicken a beautiful golden crust.
Add the coated chicken to the pan in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd. Fry each batch for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown.
Once fried, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
In another skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds or until aromatic.
Stir in the brown sugar and honey, cooking for about 1 minute until the mixture becomes a smooth sauce.
Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and gochujang to the skillet. Cook for another 30 seconds, letting those flavors meld together.
Gently add the fried chicken to the skillet, tossing well with the sauce to ensure even coating.
Finally, serve garnished with green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and sliced red chilis for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Things Worth Knowing

Double frying
Oil temperature is critical. If it’s too hot, the chicken burns; too cool, and it becomes greasy.
Make the sauce ahead of time. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing the chicken without sauce keeps it crispy. Store it in an airtight container for up to three months.

Change It Up

Feeling adventurous? There are many ways to put your own twist on Korean Fried Chicken. Here are some ideas to make this dish uniquely yours.

Experiment with spices: Add more gochujang for extra heat, or play with spice blends to find your perfect flavor.
Switch up the chicken: Try using chicken thighs for a juicier alternative to breasts.
Pair with different sides: Serve with fresh vegetables or a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.
Add a citrus twist: A squeeze of lime or lemon juice can brighten up the dish immensely.
Change the frying method: If you prefer a healthier option, try making this in an air fryer for a lighter version.
Make it a meal: Serve it with rice and pickled vegetables for a complete Korean feast.

What to Pair With Korean Fried Chicken

When it comes to serving Korean Fried Chicken, the options are endless! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful.

Steamed white rice: A classic pairing that balances the spiciness of the chicken.
Pickled vegetables: These add a refreshing crunch that complements the fried chicken beautifully.
Asian slaw: A crisp, tangy slaw made with cabbage and carrots will add texture and flavor.
Kimchi: For an authentic touch, serve alongside traditional kimchi, enhancing the meal with its bold flavors.
Beer or soda: Pair your meal with a cold beverage to wash it down and quench your thirst.
Ideal for gatherings: This dish is fantastic for sharing, making it perfect for parties or family dinners.
Seasonal sides: In summer, fresh salads work beautifully, while hearty root vegetables are perfect for fall.

FAQ

Korean Fried Chicken is distinct because of its double frying technique which results in an incredibly crispy texture. Additionally, it is typically tossed in a flavorful sauce made with ingredients like gochujang, honey, and soy sauce that adds layers of flavor. The balance of sweetness, spice, and savory notes truly sets it apart from traditional fried chicken, which is often seasoned more simply and not sauced.

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For the chicken, after frying, it’s best to freeze it without sauce. This preserves the crispiness. Simply reheat the fried chicken in an air fryer or oven when you’re ready to enjoy it, and then toss it with the freshly warmed sauce for the best results.

When serving Korean Fried Chicken, consider pairing it with steamed rice and pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast. A crisp slaw can also complement the dish well, adding crunch and acidity. For a more authentic touch, serve it with traditional kimchi. These sides not only enhance the meal but also create a balanced plate.

While Korean Fried Chicken is indulgent, you can make it healthier by adjusting the frying method. Consider using an air fryer to cut down on oil while still achieving that crispy texture. Additionally, you can use skinless chicken breasts or thighs, which are lower in fat. The homemade sauce allows you to control the sweetness and spices, making it a more wholesome option than traditional takeout.

Conclusion

This Korean Fried Chicken recipe brings the delightful flavors of Korea right into your kitchen, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. It’s not just about satisfying your cravings; it’s about creating a memorable experience around the table with family and friends. I encourage you to try making this at home – you won’t regret it! Your taste buds will thank you for the delicious, crispy goodness that you can enjoy time and time again.