Korean Fried Chicken
I no longer need to search for the best Korean Fried Chicken or order takeout. With my foolproof recipe and expert tips, I get that signature crunch and flavor at home with less cost and effort. Authentic and perfectly crispy, I can make it anytime I crave it, in just 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Crispy Texture: Achieve the signature crunch of Korean Fried Chicken right at home with simple techniques.
- Flavorful Sauce: The sweet and spicy sauce elevates the dish, providing a burst of flavor with every bite.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course, appetizer, or party snack. It fits various occasions seamlessly.
- Cost-Effective: Save money by making this delicious dish instead of ordering from a restaurant.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Korean Fried Chicken recipe efficiently, having the right tools is essential.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Deep frying pan
- Large shallow bowl
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Tongs or slotted spoon
- Plate for resting chicken
Importance of Each Tool
- Deep frying pan: Allows for even cooking and crisping of the chicken pieces.
- Large shallow bowl: Ideal for coating chicken chunks evenly in cornstarch.
- Whisk: Ensures that your egg mixture is smooth for proper coating on the chicken.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken breast (cut into 1-inch chunks)
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup flour (gluten-free works as well)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 2 eggs (beaten)
– Canola oil for frying
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 3 tablespoons gochujang paste (or chili sauce – add more or less, depending how spicy you prefer it)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 3 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1/3 cup soy sauce
– 1/2 cup water
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 teaspoons sesame oil
How to Make Korean Fried Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients and set aside.
Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations
In a large shallow bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, add the beaten eggs.
Step 3: Heat Oil
Pour about two inches of canola oil into a deep frying pan. Heat it over medium-high heat until hot.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs first, then coat them in the cornstarch mixture. For extra crunch, repeat this step.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully place chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5–7 minutes per batch.
Step 6: Toss with Sauce
Once cooked, remove the chicken from oil and discard excess oil. Add the fried chicken back to the pan and toss it with your prepared sauce until well coated.
Step 7: Serve
Plate your delicious Korean Fried Chicken and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Enjoy!
How to Serve Korean Fried Chicken
Korean Fried Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Whether you are enjoying it during a casual get-together or a family dinner, how you serve it can elevate the meal. Here are some creative ways to serve your crispy chicken.
With Dipping Sauces
- Sweet and Spicy Sauce: A mix of gochujang and honey creates a delightful balance.
- Soy Garlic Sauce: This savory option adds depth with its garlic flavor.
- Creamy Ranch Dip: For those who prefer something milder, this dip pairs nicely.
On a Bed of Rice
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy rice absorbs the sauce well and balances the flavors.
- Fried Rice: Add extra veggies and eggs for a colorful, hearty side.
Accompanied by Pickled Vegetables
- Korean Pickled Radish: These crunchy bites provide a refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken.
- Pickled Cucumbers: Their tangy flavor complements the richness of the chicken.
Garnished with Green Onions
- Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for added color and flavor.
How to Perfect Korean Fried Chicken
To achieve that signature crunch and flavor of authentic Korean Fried Chicken, follow these expert tips. They will help you create perfectly crispy pieces every time.
- Use Cornstarch: A cornstarch coating gives your chicken that desired crunch.
- Double Dredge: Coating the chicken twice ensures a thicker crust that holds up well when frying.
- Rest Before Frying: Letting the coated chicken sit for 10 minutes helps the coating adhere better during cooking.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F) before adding chicken to avoid sogginess.
- Fry in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in small batches for even cooking.
- Drizzle with Sesame Oil: Adding sesame oil at the end enhances flavor complexity.
Best Side Dishes for Korean Fried Chicken
Pairing Korean Fried Chicken with side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some popular options that complement its bold flavors beautifully.
- Kimchi: This traditional fermented dish adds spice and tang, enhancing each bite.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides freshness and a creamy contrast to fried chicken.
- Mandu (Korean Dumplings): These savory dumplings can be steamed or fried for added texture.
- Rice Cakes (Tteokbokki): Chewy rice cakes in spicy sauce make for a delightful pairing.
- Seasoned Spinach (Sigeumchi Namul): Lightly seasoned spinach offers a healthy green option alongside your meal.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad balances out the heat from the chicken with its coolness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Korean Fried Chicken can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Not Using Enough Cornstarch: Cornstarch is key for that crispy texture. Ensure you use the right amount and coat the chicken well.
- Skipping the Resting Time: Allowing the coated chicken to rest helps it stick better and results in a crunchier finish. Don’t rush this step!
- Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken. Work in small batches for the best results.
- Inadequate Oil Temperature: If the oil isn’t hot enough, the chicken won’t crisp up properly. Use a thermometer to check that it’s around 350°F (175°C).
- Ignoring Sauce Balance: The sauce should be balanced in flavor; adjust sweetness or spice according to your preference. Taste as you go!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Korean Fried Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Korean Fried Chicken
- Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Korean Fried Chicken
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake on a wire rack for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
- Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate; heat in short bursts, checking frequently. This method may not retain crispiness.
- Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat and re-fry until warm and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about making Korean Fried Chicken. Here are some common ones:
What makes Korean Fried Chicken different?
Korean Fried Chicken is known for its extra crispy skin and flavorful sauces, often made with gochujang, which adds a unique kick.
Can I make Korean Fried Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and fry it just before serving for maximum crispiness.
What can I serve with Korean Fried Chicken?
Pair it with pickled radish, rice, or a fresh salad to balance out the rich flavors of the chicken.
Is there a healthier version of Korean Fried Chicken?
You can use an air fryer or bake instead of frying, which reduces fat while still giving you that satisfying crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Korean Fried Chicken recipe is not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize it with different sauces or spices based on your taste preferences. Try it today and enjoy this amazing dish right at home!
Korean Fried Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Enjoy homemade Korean Fried Chicken that’s irresistibly crispy! Follow this easy recipe for delicious comfort food that satisfies your cravings today!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breast (cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- Canola oil for frying
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons gochujang paste
- 1/4 cup honey
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce by mixing ketchup, gochujang, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and water in a bowl.
- In a shallow bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs.
- Heat canola oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Coat each chicken piece first in the egg mixture then in the cornstarch mixture (double coating for extra crunch).
- Fry in batches until golden brown (5-7 minutes per batch).
- Toss fried chicken with the prepared sauce until well coated.
- Serve hot garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 287
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
