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 can achieve that signature crunch and flavor at home with less cost and effort. Authentic and perfectly crispy, this dish is ideal for game nights, family dinners, or any occasion when you want to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a busy weeknight.
• Crispy Texture: The unique coating method ensures each piece of chicken is perfectly crispy and delicious.
• Versatile Flavor: Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of gochujang paste, catering to all taste preferences.
• Homemade Goodness: Skip takeout and enjoy fresh, homemade Korean Fried Chicken that rivals your favorite restaurant.
• Great for Sharing: This dish serves four, making it perfect for gatherings or family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin preparing your Korean Fried Chicken, gather all essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or slotted spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep frying pan: Provides ample space for frying multiple chicken pieces at once, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing dry ingredients thoroughly, which helps achieve a consistent 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: ketchup, gochujang paste, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, water, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, cornstarch, and sesame oil. Mix well until fully combined and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a large, shallow bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, add the beaten eggs.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Pour about 2 inches of canola oil into a deep frying pan and heat it over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken piece into the beaten eggs first. Then coat it in the cornstarch mixture until well covered. Repeat this process for each piece of chicken. If time allows, let them rest on a plate for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add chicken chunks to the hot oil in batches. Fry until golden brown and crispy—about 6–8 minutes per batch. Use tongs to turn them occasionally for even cooking.

Step 6: Toss with Sauce

Once cooked, remove chicken from the oil and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels. Discard excess oil from the pan but leave any residue for flavor. Add cooked chicken back into the pan with prepared sauce. Toss until evenly coated.

Step 7: Serve

Transfer Korean Fried Chicken to a serving plate. For an added touch, sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Korean Fried Chicken

Korean Fried Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Perfectly crispy and flavorful, this dish can be served in a variety of ways that enhance its deliciousness.

With Traditional Sides

• Pickled Radish: A crunchy, tangy side that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Kimchi: Spicy fermented vegetables that add depth and complexity to your meal.
• Steamed Rice: Soft rice provides a neutral base that complements the spicy sauce.

As a Snack

• Chicken Wings: Serve smaller portions as appetizers at parties or gatherings.
• Dipping Sauces: Offer a selection like ranch, garlic, or extra gochujang for added flavor.

Garnished with Fresh Ingredients

• Green Onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for freshness and color.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and crunch when scattered over the chicken.

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How to Perfect Korean Fried Chicken

To achieve that authentic taste and texture, follow these expert tips for making your Korean Fried Chicken truly memorable.

• Use Cornstarch: This gives the chicken its signature crunch. The cornstarch coating seals in moisture while frying.
• Double Dipping: Dip the chicken pieces in eggs and then coat them in cornstarch twice. This creates an even thicker crust.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. This prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil and keeps it crispy.
• Rest After Frying: Let the fried chicken rest before tossing it in sauce. This helps maintain crispiness.
• Customize Spice Level: Adjust the gochujang in your sauce according to your heat preference for a personalized kick.

Best Side Dishes for Korean Fried Chicken

Pair your delicious Korean Fried Chicken with these delightful side dishes to create a complete meal experience.

1. Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds coolness and crunch, balancing out the heat of the chicken.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to savory flavors, perfect for dipping.
3. Stir-Fried Vegetables: Colorful stir-fried veggies provide essential nutrients and add visual appeal to your meal.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a classic side that complements fried dishes well with its soft texture.
5. Mandu (Korean Dumplings): Serve these savory dumplings either steamed or fried for an additional Korean touch.
6. Rice Paper Rolls: Fresh rolls filled with veggies and protein can be served on the side for a light option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Korean Fried Chicken at home is easy, but a few common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Resting Time: Letting the coated chicken rest is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. If you skip this step, the coating can become soggy during frying.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in greasy chicken. Fry in small batches to maintain high heat.
• Ignoring Oil Temperature: Using oil that isn’t hot enough will prevent proper frying. Use a thermometer to ensure your oil reaches about 350°F (175°C).
• Not Double Coating: A single layer of batter may not provide enough crunch. Always double coat your chicken for that extra crispiness and flavor.
• Using Cold Chicken: Cold chicken straight from the fridge can lower the oil temperature. Allow your chicken to come to room temperature before frying for even cooking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Korean Fried Chicken in an airtight container.
• It stays 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.
• Frozen fried chicken can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Korean Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and cover with a paper towel. Heat on medium power for short bursts, about 1-2 minutes; this may not keep it crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until warmed through and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Korean Fried Chicken that you might find helpful.

Can I make Korean Fried Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour in the recipe for a delicious gluten-free version.

What is the secret to crispy Korean Fried Chicken?

The secret lies in double coating the chicken and allowing it to rest before frying. This ensures a golden, crunchy exterior.

How spicy is Korean Fried Chicken?

The spiciness can be adjusted by modifying the amount of gochujang paste used in the sauce. Use less for mild or add more for extra heat.

Can I bake Korean Fried Chicken instead?

While frying gives an authentic taste and texture, you can bake it at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes if you prefer a healthier option.

What sides go well with Korean Fried Chicken?

Korean Fried Chicken pairs wonderfully with pickled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad to balance its richness.

Final Thoughts

This Korean Fried Chicken recipe is all about achieving that perfect crunch and flavor right at home. It’s versatile enough for any occasion—be it game day or family dinner—and you can easily customize it with your favorite sauces or spice levels. Give it a try; you’ll love how simple yet satisfying homemade fried chicken can be!