There’s a special thrill that comes from tasting something that transports you straight to a bustling street food market—excitement, spice, and a sizzling crunch all wrapped up in one dish. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with my Korean Fried Chicken! Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine, this dish takes the humble chicken thigh and elevates it to something truly spectacular.
Imagine tender pieces of chicken, perfectly fried to a golden crisp, and tossed in a deliciously spicy-sweet Gochujang sauce that clings just right. Whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or treating yourself after a long day, this recipe shines on any table. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up at home, making takeout feel like a thing of the past. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Why is Korean Fried Chicken so irresistible?
Unmatched Crunch: The combination of flour and cornstarch creates a genuinely crispy exterior that perfectly contrasts the moist chicken inside.
Flavor Explosion: The Gochujang sauce packs a spicy-sweet punch, bringing that authentic Korean street food vibe right into your kitchen.
Easy Preparation: With seven straightforward steps, you’ll be serving up gourmet flavors in no time—perfect for home cooks at any skill level.
Versatile Dish: Ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in, this chicken pairs beautifully with rice or even as a delicious snack!
Quick Clean-Up: Frying is efficient, and you’ll also love how the vibrant colors and aromas fill your home, making every moment worthwhile.
Korean Fried Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs – a juicy choice that stays moist during frying.
• Flour – helps form a crispy coating that locks in flavor.
• Large eggs – act as a binder, ensuring the coating adheres perfectly.
• Cornstarch – provides an extra crunch that elevates the texture.
For the Cooking
• Vegetable oil – ideal for frying; it has a high smoke point for perfect crisping.
For the Sauce
• Korean Gochujang red pepper paste – brings that signature spicy-sweet flavor, making the chicken unforgettable.
• Rice vinegar – adds a tangy brightness that balances the richness of the dish.
• Brown sugar – enhances the sauce with its warm sweetness, creating depth.
• Soy sauce – contributes umami, giving your Korean Fried Chicken a savory kick.
For Garnish
• Sesame seeds – sprinkle on top for a nutty finish and decorative touch.
How to Make Korean Fried Chicken
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Prepare: Cut the boneless skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. This uniform size ensures they fry evenly, yielding that delightful crunch and juicy interior everyone loves.
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Coat: In a mixing bowl, coat the chicken pieces evenly with flour. This step is essential for creating a crispy outer layer that will hold up beautifully while frying.
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Dip: Next, dip each floured chicken piece into the beaten eggs. This binding process is key, as it helps the cornstarch adhere beautifully to the chicken surface.
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Roll: Roll the egg-dipped chicken pieces in cornstarch. This will add an extra crunch you won’t want to miss. Make sure they’re thoroughly coated for the best texture!
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Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Carefully fry the coated chicken pieces until they are golden brown, about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
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Mix: In a separate bowl, combine Gochujang, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Whisk until smooth; this delightful sauce will elevate your chicken and add balanced flavor.
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Toss: Once the chicken is perfectly fried, toss it in the prepared sauce until every piece is well coated. The vibrant colors and aroma will be irresistible!
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Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a nutty touch and visual appeal. This simple step brings a nice crunch and completes the dish.
Optional: Serve with a side of pickled vegetables for an extra zesty kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Korean Fried Chicken
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Korean Fried Chicken fresh for the best taste, but if necessary, it can be left out for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal flavor, reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze the fried chicken for up to 2 months. Place in a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Make sure to enjoy your Korean Fried Chicken warm for the ultimate experience!
Expert Tips for Korean Fried Chicken
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Perfect Frying Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that coveted crispiness without being greasy.
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Cornstarch Coating: Don’t rush the rolling process! Make sure each chicken piece is fully coated in cornstarch for the ultimate crunch when fried.
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Rest Before Serving: Let the fried chicken rest for a few minutes before tossing it in the sauce. This allows the coating to firm up and maintain its crunch, ensuring a delightful texture with your Korean Fried Chicken.
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Customize the Spice: For a milder flavor, adjust the amount of Gochujang in the sauce. Taste as you go to find your perfect level of heat and sweetness.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve your Korean Fried Chicken with fresh vegetables or a cool dipping sauce. This keeps the meal balanced and adds a refreshing contrast to the decadent chicken.
Korean Fried Chicken Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this delicious dish to suit your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add more Gochujang for an extra spicy variation that will delight those who crave heat. The more, the merrier with flavor!
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Honey Garlic: Substitute an additional tablespoon of brown sugar with honey for a sweet twist that complements the savory sauce beautifully.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and cornstarch to create a lighter, gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy without sacrificing crunch.
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Crispy Baked Version: Choose to bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for a healthier option. Lightly spray the coated chicken pieces with oil for an equally crispy texture.
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Herb-Infused: Toss some fresh herbs, like chopped cilantro or basil, into the sauce for added depth and a refreshing flavor twist that makes each bite special.
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Sesame Soy Sauce: Mix in a drizzle of toasted sesame oil with the sauce for a richer flavor profile that adds an aromatic finish to each piece of chicken.
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Tangy Citrus: Add a splash of freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice to the sauce for an uplifting zing that perfectly balances the richness of the fried chicken.
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Vegetable Add-Ins: Consider tossing in sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli with the fried chicken for a heartier, more colorful dish that’s full of goodness!
Make Ahead Options
These Korean Fried Chicken pieces are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish any night of the week! You can coat the chicken pieces in flour and store them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator, which helps maintain their crispiness. Additionally, you can prepare the Gochujang sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days—the flavors will develop beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the coated chicken until golden and toss it in the sauce, ensuring you achieve that signature crunch and flavor without the last-minute rush. Enjoy effortless gourmet dining right at home!
What to Serve with Korean Fried Chicken?
Elevate your meal by pairing this flavorful dish with sides that perfectly complement its spicy-sweet essence and crunchy texture.
- Steamed Rice: A neutral base that soaks up the delicious Gochujang sauce, making every bite even more satisfying.
- Kimchi: This traditional side adds a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the fried chicken.
- Sesame Cucumber Salad: Fresh and crisp, this salad provides a refreshing palate cleanser to balance the dish’s intensity.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs well, while the crunch echoes the chicken’s texture, creating delightful contrasts.
- Spicy Mayo Dipping Sauce: A creamy complement that enhances the heat, perfect for those who love an extra kick with their chicken.
- Korean Pickled Radishes: Bright, tangy, and crunchy, these provide a crisp contrast to the tender chicken and cut through the richness.
- Cold Beer or Soju: These drinks enhance the experience, offering a refreshing counterbalance to the spicy and flavorful chicken.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, this light and rich treat provides a perfect, sweet ending to a bold meal that delights the taste buds.
Korean Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Korean Fried Chicken?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe. They remain juicy during frying and have a wonderful flavor that enhances the dish. If you prefer, you can also use chicken breasts, but be cautious not to overcook them, as they tend to dry out more easily.
How should I store leftover Korean Fried Chicken?
Very! To store your leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes to restore the crispiness and flavor. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken soggy.
Can I freeze Korean Fried Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze your fried chicken for up to 2 months. To do so, allow the chicken to cool completely and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
What should I do if the chicken doesn’t get crispy?
Very! If your chicken isn’t achieving that desired crispiness, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken—ideally around 350°F (175°C). Also, ensure that each piece is evenly coated in flour, egg, and cornstarch. Let the chicken rest briefly after frying to retain that crunch when tossed in the sauce.
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe contains common allergens, including eggs, soy (from soy sauce), and gluten (from flour and cornstarch). If you need alternatives, consider using gluten-free flour and cornstarch, and tamari instead of soy sauce. Always check individual ingredient labels for any further allergens, especially if serving to guests.
Crispy Korean Fried Chicken That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare: Cut the boneless skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces.
- Coat: In a mixing bowl, coat the chicken pieces evenly with flour.
- Dip: Dip each floured chicken piece into the beaten eggs.
- Roll: Roll the egg-dipped chicken pieces in cornstarch.
- Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.
- Mix: In a bowl, combine Gochujang, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Whisk until smooth.
- Toss: Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until well coated.
- Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.