Name: Korean Fried Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces); 1/2 cup All-purpose flour; 2 Eggs; 1/2 cup Cornstarch; 1/3 cup Gochujang red pepper paste; 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar; 1/3 cup Light brown sugar; 2 tablespoons Soy sauce; 1/2 teaspoon Ground ginger; Vegetable or Canola oil (for frying); Green onions (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish); Rice (for serving)

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There’s something magical about the crackle and crunch of Korean Fried Chicken. It transports me back to evenings spent in bustling markets, where the scent of fried goodness fills the air. The first time I tasted this delightful dish was during a family gathering, and each bite was bursting with flavor and nostalgia. The crispy exterior and juicy interior create the perfect harmony that makes this dish irresistible. Whenever I prepare Korean Fried Chicken at home, it feels like a special occasion, even on the busiest weeknights.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
28 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
8 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Dutch Oven, Deep-Frying Thermometer

What We Adore About This Korean Fried Chicken

A Fusion of Flavors

The bold flavors of Korean Fried Chicken come from the careful combination of ingredients that elevate it beyond regular fried chicken. With a sticky and spicy sauce made from gochujang red pepper paste, this dish delivers a kick that’s perfectly balanced with sweetness from light brown sugar.

Perfectly Crispy Every Time

The secret to achieving that signature crunch lies in the frying technique. Coating the chicken with a mixture of all-purpose flour and cornstarch creates a light, airy crust that becomes irresistibly crispy when fried. Plus, the method of frying in batches ensures each piece gets the attention it deserves.

A Community Favorite

This dish has a way of bringing people together. Whether I’m serving it at a casual dinner or a festive gathering, Korean Fried Chicken is always a hit. It encourages sharing, laughter, and, of course, second helpings! No one can resist reaching for another piece.

Quick and Easy to Make

Although it may seem intimidating, making Korean Fried Chicken at home is quite straightforward. With just a few key ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can recreate the magic of your favorite Korean restaurant in your own kitchen.

Garnish for a Touch of Elegance

The finishing touches of sliced green onions and sesame seeds not only add visual appeal but also bring a delightful crunch and freshness to each bite. It’s these little details that make the dish truly special.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a family dinner, game night, or a cozy evening with friends, Korean Fried Chicken fits right in. It’s a versatile dish that suits any occasion, making it a staple in my cooking repertoire.

What to Buy for Korean Fried Chicken

When it comes to Korean Fried Chicken, the ingredients are what make it truly shine. Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. The key players here include the rich and spicy gochujang red pepper paste, which gives the chicken its signature flavor, along with light brown sugar to add a hint of sweetness.

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces: This cut of chicken is perfect as it remains juicy and tender during frying.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: This is used to create a crispy coating.

2 eggs: They help the flour adhere to the chicken.
1/2 cup cornstarch: This adds extra crispiness to the coating.
1/3 cup gochujang red pepper paste: The star ingredient that adds flavor and spice.

2 tablespoons rice vinegar: This adds a tangy touch to the sauce.
1/3 cup light brown sugar: Provides sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds depth and umami flavor.
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Enhances the flavor profile with warmth.

Vegetable or Canola oil for frying: Essential for achieving that crispy texture.
sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish: These add color and freshness.
Rice for serving: A perfect accompaniment to soak up the delicious sauce.

Cooking Instructions for Korean Fried Chicken

Let’s dive into the delightful process of making Korean Fried Chicken. Follow these steps to achieve that golden, crispy perfection that you’ll crave time and time again. Trust me, the result is worth every moment spent cooking!

Start by setting up your breading station. In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, crack the eggs and lightly beat them. In a third bowl, pour the cornstarch. This setup makes breading the chicken easy and organized.
Take the cut pieces of chicken and coat them in the flour, ensuring they are fully covered. This step is crucial for creating the crispy outer layer.

Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs. Allow any excess egg to drip off, then coat the chicken pieces again, this time in the cornstarch for that extra crunch.
In a separate bowl, mix together the gochujang red pepper paste, rice vinegar, light brown sugar, soy sauce, and ground ginger. Stir until well combined and set aside; this will be your delicious sauce.
In a deep Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s essential to get the oil hot enough for the chicken to fry properly.

Fry the chicken in batches for about 3 to 4 minutes or until each piece is golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature.
Once cooked, transfer the chicken pieces to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This keeps the chicken crispy.
After frying all the chicken, toss the pieces in the prepared sauce. Make sure each piece gets generously coated for maximum flavor.

Finally, transfer the chicken to a serving platter and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful finish.
Serve your Korean Fried Chicken alongside rice, and enjoy the crispy, spicy goodness!

Things Worth Knowing

Frying Temperature: Keeping the oil at the right temperature (around 375 degrees Fahrenheit) is crucial for achieving crispy chicken.

Batch Cooking: Fry the chicken in small batches to prevent lowering the oil temperature, ensuring even cooking.
Resting Time: Allow the fried chicken to rest on paper towels for a minute to drain excess oil and maintain crispiness.
Flavor Enhancement: Marinating the chicken in the sauce for a few minutes before serving can intensify the flavors.

Recipe Tips about Korean Fried Chicken

Making Korean Fried Chicken is a rewarding experience, and with these tips, you can elevate your dish further. Here are some valuable insights to ensure everything goes perfectly.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat in an oven to restore crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze the fried chicken for up to a month. Just make sure to freeze it in a single layer before transferring it to a freezer bag.

Pairing: Serve Korean Fried Chicken with a side of pickled vegetables or a refreshing salad to balance the richness.
Serving Temperature: This dish is best served hot and fresh but can also be enjoyed cold for a picnic-style meal.
Variations: Experiment with different sauces such as sweet chili or teriyaki for a unique twist on flavor.

What Goes Well With This Korean Fried Chicken

Pairing your Korean Fried Chicken with the right sides can elevate your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to complement this dish:

Steamed Rice: A bowl of fluffy steamed rice is a classic pairing that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
Korean Pickled Radishes: These tangy pickles provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fried chicken.

Vegetable Stir-Fry: A vibrant stir-fry with seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal.
Korean Slaw: A crunchy slaw with sesame dressing makes a delightful and crunchy side.
Beer and Soju: If you enjoy beverages, pair your meal with a light beer or traditional soju for an authentic experience.

Seasonal Salads: Light salads with fresh greens can balance the heat and richness of the chicken.

FAQ

Korean Fried Chicken stands out due to its unique double frying method, which creates an incredibly crispy texture while keeping the meat juicy. The use of gochujang red pepper paste in the sauce adds a distinct spicy and sweet flavor that sets it apart from traditional fried chicken. The coating is usually lighter and crunchier, resulting in a delightful eating experience that’s both rich and satisfying. This dish often comes with various dipping sauces, enhancing the flavor further, making it a favorite among fried chicken lovers.

While Korean Fried Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare certain components in advance. For instance, you can marinate the chicken in the sauce a few hours before frying to allow the flavors to penetrate. Additionally, you can pre-bread the chicken and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry. Just keep in mind to fry the chicken right before serving to retain its crispy texture. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in an oven for best results.

The flavor of Korean Fried Chicken can be enhanced by pairing it with various dipping sauces. Popular options include a sweet and spicy dipping sauce made with gochujang, honey, and soy sauce. A tangy vinegar-based sauce also complements the richness of the chicken. Additionally, a simple sesame oil and vinegar dip can provide a refreshing contrast. Feel free to get creative by mixing and matching flavors to find the perfect sauce combination that suits your palate!

While Korean Fried Chicken is undeniably delicious, it is typically high in calories and fat due to the frying process. However, you can make it healthier by using lean chicken cuts and opting for a light batter. Baking instead of frying could also be an alternative for those looking to reduce fat content. The key is to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Pairing it with fresh salads or steamed vegetables can also enhance the nutritional aspect of the meal.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Korean Fried Chicken is a dish that combines irresistible crunch with bold flavors, making it a standout choice for any meal. Whether you’re enjoying a casual dinner at home or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress. So why not give it a try tonight? You won’t be disappointed!

Korean Fried Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Korean Fried Chicken delivers a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings!

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 8

Total Time 28

Course Dinner

Cuisine Korean

Servings 6 servings

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

Dutch Oven
Deep-Frying Thermometer

Ingredients

2 pounds Chicken thighs boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup All-purpose flour
2 Eggs
1/2 cup Cornstarch
1/3 cup Gochujang red pepper paste
2 tablespoons Rice vinegar
1/3 cup Light brown sugar
2 tablespoons Soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon Ground ginger
Vegetable or Canola oil for frying
Green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds for garnish
Rice for serving

Instructions

Start by setting up your breading station. In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, crack the eggs and lightly beat them. In a third bowl, pour the cornstarch. This setup makes breading the chicken easy and organized.

Take the cut pieces of chicken and coat them in the flour, ensuring they are fully covered. This step is crucial for creating the crispy outer layer.
Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs. Allow any excess egg to drip off, then coat the chicken pieces again, this time in the cornstarch for that extra crunch.
In a separate bowl, mix together the gochujang red pepper paste, rice vinegar, light brown sugar, soy sauce, and ground ginger. Stir until well combined and set aside; this will be your delicious sauce.

In a deep Dutch oven, heat about 2 inches of oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. It’s essential to get the oil hot enough for the chicken to fry properly.
Fry the chicken in batches for about 3 to 4 minutes or until each piece is golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature.
Once cooked, transfer the chicken pieces to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This keeps the chicken crispy.

After frying all the chicken, toss the pieces in the prepared sauce. Make sure each piece gets generously coated for maximum flavor.
Finally, transfer the chicken to a serving platter and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful finish.
Serve your Korean Fried Chicken alongside rice, and enjoy the crispy, spicy goodness!