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. This Korean Fried Chicken is perfect for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Crispy Texture: The double coating of cornstarch ensures a delightful crunch that is hard to resist.
- Customizable Spice Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang to suit your personal taste; make it mild or fiery hot!
- Delicious Sauce: The savory-sweet sauce adds layers of flavor that elevate your chicken dish.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve this dish at parties, as a main course, or even as a snack during movie nights.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your Korean Fried Chicken, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Deep frying pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Tongs
- Plate for resting chicken
Importance of Each Tool
- Deep frying pan: Provides enough space for frying the chicken evenly without overcrowding.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients and preparing the batter and sauce efficiently.
- Whisk: Helps ensure a smooth batter by thoroughly mixing ingredients without lumps.
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 on 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. Whisk until well mixed and set aside. This sauce will give your fried chicken its signature flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Coating
In a large, shallow bowl, whisk together:
1. Cornstarch
2. Flour
3. Salt
4. Ground black pepper
Step 3: Set Up Your Frying Station
Add beaten eggs to another bowl. Pour about two inches of canola oil into your deep frying pan and heat it over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs first:
1. Allow excess egg to drip off.
2. Then transfer the chicken to the cornstarch mixture.
3. Toss until each piece is well coated.
Repeat this process by dipping again in beaten eggs followed by cornstarch for extra crunch.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully add coated chicken pieces into the hot oil in batches:
1. Cook until golden brown and crispy.
2. Remove cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 6: Toss with Sauce
Once all pieces are fried, discard excess oil from the pan:
1. Add fried chicken back to the pan.
2. Pour in the prepared sauce.
3. Toss until well coated and heated through.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer your delicious Korean Fried Chicken to a serving platter:
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired and enjoy!
How to Serve Korean Fried Chicken
Korean Fried Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience! Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, serving it right can elevate your meal.
With Dipping Sauces
- Spicy Mayo: A creamy and spicy blend that complements the crispy chicken perfectly.
- Honey Mustard: Sweet and tangy, this sauce adds a delightful twist to each bite.
Over Rice
- Steamed White Rice: The classic choice, providing a neutral base that balances the flavors of the chicken.
- Fried Rice: For an exciting twist, serve your chicken over fried rice mixed with vegetables and eggs.
As Part of a Platter
- Korean BBQ Platter: Combine your fried chicken with other Korean BBQ favorites like bulgogi and grilled vegetables for a feast.
- Snack Platter: Pair with chips, pickled radishes, and edamame for a fun casual meal.
Topped with Garnishes
- Green Onions: A sprinkle adds freshness and crunch.
- Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds enhance the visual appeal and provide a nutty flavor.
How to Perfect Korean Fried Chicken
Perfecting Korean Fried Chicken is all about technique. Follow these tips to achieve that signature crunch and flavor.
- Use Cornstarch: This key ingredient creates an ultra-crispy coating that sets Korean Fried Chicken apart from others.
- Double Dip: For extra crunch, dip the chicken pieces in egg after coating in cornstarch, then coat again in cornstarch.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil hot enough (around 350°F) for frying to ensure a crispy exterior without greasy results.
- Rest Before Frying: Letting the coated chicken sit for about 10 minutes helps the batter adhere better during frying.
- Batch Cooking: Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
Best Side Dishes for Korean Fried Chicken
Pairing sides with your Korean Fried Chicken can enhance its flavors and make for a satisfying meal. Here are some great suggestions:
- Kimchi: This fermented side dish adds spice and tang, complementing the savory flavors of the chicken.
- Pickled Radishes: Crunchy and mildly sweet, these help cleanse the palate between bites of rich fried chicken.
- Korean Potato Salad: Creamy and slightly sweet, it provides a comforting contrast to the crispy chicken.
- Coleslaw: A fresh slaw with a tangy dressing balances out the richness of fried chicken beautifully.
- Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed greens or broccoli add color and nutrients to your meal.
- Mandu (Korean Dumplings): These savory dumplings can be steamed or fried for extra indulgence alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Korean Fried Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the perfect crispy chicken.
- Skipping the double coating: Many people dip the chicken only once in the egg and flour mixture. Double coating is essential for achieving that signature crunch.
- Not resting the chicken: Failing to let the coated chicken rest before frying can lead to a soggy texture. Allow it to sit for at least 10 minutes for better results.
- Using too low oil temperature: If your oil isn’t hot enough, your chicken will absorb more oil and become greasy. Ensure the oil is heated to around 350°F (175°C) before frying.
- Overcrowding the pan: Adding too much chicken at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Fry in batches for optimal crispiness.
- Rushing the sauce: A quick sauce may lack depth of flavor. Allow your sauce ingredients to simmer together for a richer taste that complements the chicken.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Korean Fried Chicken in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Korean Fried Chicken
- Place cooled fried chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Korean Fried Chicken
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until crispy.
- Microwave: Use this method only if necessary, as it may make the chicken less crispy. Heat on medium power in short increments until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil, flipping occasionally until heated and crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about making Korean Fried Chicken that might help you get started.
What makes Korean Fried Chicken different?
Korean Fried Chicken is known for its light, crispy batter and flavorful sauces, often featuring gochujang or sweet sauces, setting it apart from regular fried chicken.
Can I make Korean Fried Chicken gluten-free?
Yes! You can use gluten-free flour in place of regular flour and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
How spicy is Korean Fried Chicken?
The spice level can vary based on how much gochujang paste you add. Adjust it according to your preference for heat!
Is Korean Fried Chicken healthy?
While it’s higher in calories due to frying, you can make healthier choices by baking instead of frying or using lean cuts of chicken.
Can I customize the sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to add additional spices or adjust sweetness and heat levels according to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
Korean Fried Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different sauces and spice levels, making it perfect for any occasion. Try making this recipe at home; it’s sure to satisfy your cravings!
Korean Fried Chicken
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Korean Fried Chicken is a game-changer for anyone craving crispy, flavorful chicken without the hassle of takeout. With a quick preparation time of just 30 minutes, this recipe delivers an authentic taste that rivals your favorite restaurant version. The secret to its irresistible crunch lies in a double coating of cornstarch, while a savory-sweet sauce elevates each bite. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or cozy nights in, you can customize the spice level to suit your taste. Whether served with steamed rice or enjoyed as a snack with dipping sauces, this dish will surely impress!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breast (cut into chunks)
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 cup flour (gluten-free optional)
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- Canola oil for frying
- 3 tablespoons gochujang paste
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- Minced garlic and seasonings
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce by mixing all sauce ingredients in a bowl and setting aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper.
- Beat eggs in a separate bowl.
- Dip chicken pieces in eggs, then coat with the cornstarch mixture; repeat for extra crunch.
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan and fry the coated chicken until golden brown and crispy.
- Toss fried chicken with the prepared sauce until well-coated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
