Tag: Crispy chicken

Korean Fried Chicken is a popular chicken dish from Korea known for its signature extra-crispy exterior and flavorful coating. This unique texture is achieved through a double-frying method, which renders out the fat and creates an incredibly crunchy crust that stays crisp even when tossed in a sweet and spicy sauce, typically made with gochujang.

There’s something uniquely irresistible about perfectly crispy, deeply flavorful Korean fried chicken. That golden crunch, juicy interior, and sweet and spicy glaze often feel like a special treat best enjoyed at a restaurant. But what if you could achieve that authentic, extra-crispy goodness at home? It’s not only possible—it’s surprisingly straightforward. Many home cooks feel intimidated by making korean fried chicken from scratch, fearing complex techniques or specialized ingredients. At Recipesmondial, we believe cooking should be an enjoyable, stress-free experience.

Get ready to banish those doubts. Our easy Korean fried chicken recipe is designed to guide you through every step, ensuring a spectacular result every time. This dish brings restaurant-quality flavor into your home with approachable step-by-step cooking guidance. We’ll show you exactly how to create that signature crispy coating and whip up an addictive sweet and spicy gochujang sauce that will have your family asking for more. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s your ticket to discovering how flavorful meals made easy can transform your mealtime.

Whether you’re looking for simple dinner recipes or want to impress with a new, exciting dish, this korean fried chicken recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for family-friendly meals or as a delightful treat for yourself. This recipe shows that delicious beginner-friendly recipes can be both exciting and achievable. So, if you’re ready to build confidence in the kitchen and enjoy the incredible taste of homemade korean fried chicken, let’s dive in.

Why Will You Love This Korean Fried Chicken Recipe?

Ready to make your new favorite Korean fried chicken at home? This recipe is designed just for you, simplifying a typically complex dish without sacrificing flavor. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to achieve restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen.

Cooking should be enjoyable, not stressful. That’s why this recipe provides clear, step-by-step guidance, making it perfect even for beginners. Leave complex, overwhelming instructions behind and say hello to a delicious meal and newfound cooking confidence!

Here’s why this easy Korean fried chicken recipe will quickly become a cherished addition to your family-friendly meals:

• Unbeatable Crunch: We reveal the secret to an extra-crispy crunch that lasts. Our double-fry method locks in an incredible texture that is sure to impress everyone at your table.
• Irresistible Flavor: The addictive sweet and spicy gochujang sauce perfectly coats each piece of chicken, delivering a bold flavor combination that defines this popular dish.
• Simple Steps for Success: You don’t need to be an expert chef to master this recipe. Our clear, approachable instructions break down every step, so you can cook with confidence from start to finish.
• Perfect for Everyone: This recipe is a fantastic choice for family dinners or entertaining friends. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation.
• Confidence in Every Bite: By following our reliable recipe and practical tips, you’ll turn simple ingredients into a truly stunning dish. This success helps build your skills and inspires more creativity in the kitchen.

More than just a list of steps, this recipe from Recipesmondial is your guide to creating simple yet impressive dishes. It’s designed to help you prepare quick, reliable meals with ease. We hope you enjoy the entire process of making this incredibly delicious Korean fried chicken!

What Ingredients Do You Need for Korean Fried Chicken?

Ready to make incredibly crispy and flavorful Korean fried chicken at home? It’s easier than you might think! This guide breaks down the simple ingredients for both the extra-crispy chicken and its irresistible sweet and spicy sauce. We’ll show you how to make this delicious, family-friendly meal simple and enjoyable.

For the Crispy Chicken Batter

The secret to that signature crunch is the batter. Our recipe uses common ingredients to deliver professional-level results, so you won’t feel overwhelmed—even if you’re a beginner.

• Chicken: 2.5-3 pounds chicken wings and drumettes, separated (about 12-15 pieces). Pat them very dry before starting.
• All-purpose flour: 1 cup. This forms the essential base of the crispy coating.
• Cornstarch: 1/2 cup. This is the key to an extra-crispy texture. While many traditional Korean fried chicken recipes use potato starch for a lighter crust ^[1], cornstarch is a fantastic and accessible alternative.
• Baking powder: 1 teaspoon. It helps create a light, airy, and bubbly crust.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon. For perfectly seasoning the chicken and batter.
• Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon. Adds a subtle peppery kick.
• Cold water: 1 cup (approximately). Using very cold water prevents gluten from developing, ensuring a lighter batter.
• Egg: 1 large (optional). An egg adds richness and helps the chicken brown beautifully.
• Vegetable oil: 6-8 cups (for deep frying). Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like canola, peanut, or sunflower oil.

Quick tip for budget cooking: Chicken thighs or boneless chicken pieces also work well. Just be sure to adjust the frying time accordingly.

For the Sweet & Spicy Gochujang Sauce

This sauce is what defines the Korean fried chicken experience, perfectly balancing sweet, savory, and spicy notes. Better yet, it comes together using common pantry staples for an unforgettable flavor.

• Gochujang (Korean chili paste): 1/4 cup. This fermented paste is the heart of the sauce. Look for it in the international aisle of most grocery stores.
• Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes): 1 tablespoon (optional, for extra heat). Adjust the amount to your personal spice preference.
• Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons. Adds crucial savory, umami depth. Use low-sodium if preferred.
• Mirin (sweet rice wine): 2 tablespoons. Provides sweetness and a subtle tang. Rice vinegar can be a good substitute if needed.
• Rice vinegar: 1 tablespoon. This brightens the sauce and cuts through its richness.
• Brown sugar: 2 tablespoons. For essential sweetness. Honey or maple syrup also work well as substitutes.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic makes a significant difference in the final flavor.
• Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated (optional). Adds a fresh, zesty note.
• Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon. This aromatic oil is essential for an authentic Korean taste.
• Water or chicken broth: 1/4 cup. Helps thin the sauce to the perfect consistency for glazing.
• Cornstarch slurry: 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water. This will thicken the sauce so it coats the chicken perfectly.

Garnish (optional, but highly recommended for presentation and flavor):

• Toasted sesame seeds.
• Chopped green onions.

You’ll love how these simple ingredients combine to create a flavor that rivals your favorite takeout. Get ready to enjoy this delicious meal with confidence!

How to Make Korean Fried Chicken (Step-by-Step)

How to Make Korean Fried Chicken (Step-by-Step)

Ready to make your own irresistible Korean fried chicken? This step-by-step guide will help you create a delicious, extra-crispy batch with confidence.

Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken

Properly preparing the chicken is the key to ensuring maximum flavor and crispiness.

1. Pat the chicken dry: Use paper towels to pat the chicken wings completely dry. Removing excess moisture helps the batter adhere and ensures the final result is extra crispy.
2. Cut wings if needed: If using whole wings, separate them at the joints into drumettes and flats. Cut off and discard the wingtips, as they can burn easily, or save them for making chicken stock.
3. Season generously: Place the dry chicken pieces in a large bowl and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Toss well to ensure every piece is evenly coated.

Step 2: Make the Batter and Coat the Wings

A light, airy batter is essential for creating that signature crispy crunch.

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ cup cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon baking powder. Cornstarch is vital for that extra crispiness!
2. Add wet ingredients: Gradually pour in 1 cup of cold water, whisking until just combined. A few small lumps are fine—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the coating tough.
3. Coat the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the batter and toss gently until each piece is fully and evenly coated.

Tip: You can also use a large resealable bag for coating. Add the chicken and batter, then shake to coat. This makes cleanup even easier!

Step 3: Master the Double-Fry for Ultimate Crispiness

The secret to incredibly crispy Korean fried chicken is the double-fry technique. This two-step process guarantees a light, crunchy coating that stays crisp.

1. Heat the oil: Pour about 4-5 cups of neutral oil (like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil) into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Heat the oil over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a cooking thermometer for accuracy.
2. First Fry (Cooking through): Working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, carefully add the battered chicken to the hot oil. Fry for 6-8 minutes, until light golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Drain and rest: Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on a wire rack to drain. Repeat with the remaining chicken, then let all the chicken rest for at least 10 minutes. This crucial resting period allows moisture to escape, which is key for achieving a super-crispy texture in the second fry. The double-frying technique is known to achieve a lighter, shatteringly crisp coating by rendering out fat and moisture effectively ^[2].
4. Second Fry (Crisping up): Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Return all the chicken to the hot oil and fry for another 3-5 minutes, until deep golden brown and extra crispy.
5. Final drain: Remove the chicken from the oil and place it on the wire rack to drain any excess oil.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t skip the rest between fries. This step is essential for expelling moisture and ensures your chicken stays crispy for longer.

Step 4: Cook the Addictive Gochujang Sauce

This quick and easy sweet and spicy gochujang sauce brings the signature flavor to Korean fried chicken.

1. Combine sauce ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together ¼ cup gochujang (Korean chili paste), ¼ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup honey, 2 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger.
2. Simmer the sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
3. Thicken slightly: Simmer for 3-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from the heat.

Substitution Tip: If you don’t have fresh ginger, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger powder can work in a pinch. However, fresh ginger provides a brighter flavor!

Step 5: Glaze the Chicken and Serve

Now it’s time to bring everything together by coating the crispy chicken in the warm sauce.

1. Toss to coat: Place the hot, crispy chicken in a large bowl. Pour the warm gochujang sauce over it and use tongs to gently toss until every piece is thoroughly coated.
2. Garnish and serve: Transfer the glazed korean fried chicken to a serving platter. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for garnish.

Serve immediately for the best texture. Enjoy your homemade, extra-crispy Korean fried chicken!

Can I make Korean fried chicken in an air fryer?

Yes, absolutely! You can make a delicious and much lighter version of Korean fried chicken using your air fryer. While it’s famous for its double-fried crispiness, this method is a fantastic alternative for home cooks. It’s an easy recipe that’s healthier, uses less oil, and creates less mess.

Making Korean fried chicken in an air fryer is an approachable way to enjoy this popular global comfort food. It allows you to achieve a wonderfully crispy texture without the fuss of deep-frying, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

What to Expect from Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken

While the air fryer version won’t replicate the exact crunch of deep-frying, it offers its own delightful texture. Expect a satisfyingly crisp skin with tender, juicy chicken inside. This technique is an excellent solution for enjoying korean fried chicken at home quickly and simplifies the process, helping you avoid feeling overwhelmed by complex recipes.

Tips for Crispy Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken

To get the best results from your air fryer, follow these simple tips:

• Pat Chicken Dry: Always pat your chicken pieces very dry before coating. Excess moisture can prevent crisping.
• Use Starch Generously: Cornstarch or potato starch is your best friend here. It creates that signature crispy coating.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the chicken in a single layer. This allows hot air to circulate properly around each piece. You might need to cook in batches.
• Lightly Spray with Oil: A quick spray of cooking oil helps achieve an even crispier exterior. This is a crucial step for browning.
• Flip Halfway: Turn the chicken pieces over about halfway through cooking. This ensures even crisping on all sides.
• Consider a Double Cook: For extra crispiness, remove the chicken once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes, then air fry again for 5-7 minutes. This mimics the double-frying technique.

Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken Recipe Simplified Steps

Adapting your korean fried chicken recipe for the air fryer is straightforward. Here are the basic steps:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut your chicken into pieces (wings or boneless thighs work well). Season them lightly.
2. Coat Thoroughly: Toss the chicken in a mix of cornstarch or potato starch, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is fully coated.
3. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to about 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures a quicker crisp.
4. Arrange and Spray: Place chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Give them a light spray with cooking oil.
5. Air Fry to Perfection: Cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. The exact time depends on chicken size and air fryer model. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) [source: https://www.foodsafety.gov/food-safety-charts/safe-minimum-cooking-temperatures].
6. Glaze and Serve: Once cooked, toss the hot chicken with your delicious sweet and spicy gochujang sauce. Serve immediately for the best experience.

Ultimately, this air fryer method is a fantastic way to prepare flavorful meals made easy. It helps you build kitchen confidence by delivering delicious results without the stress and cleanup of deep-frying.

Expert Tips for the Best Homemade Korean Fried Chicken

Making delicious Korean fried chicken at home is a rewarding experience that brings a global comfort food right to your kitchen. To help you achieve an extra-crispy and flavorful result, we’ve gathered some expert tips. These simple tricks will help you cook with confidence and transform basic ingredients into an unforgettable meal.

Here’s how to get the best results for your korean fried chicken recipe:

• Pat Your Chicken Very Dry: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so use paper towels to thoroughly pat your chicken pieces dry before coating them. This crucial step helps the batter adhere better, resulting in a much crispier finish.
• Keep Your Batter Cold: A cold batter, a secret used by many professional chefs, creates a lighter and more airy coating. For the best texture, use ice water when mixing your batter. This not only improves the coating but also prevents the chicken from absorbing too much oil.
• Embrace the Double-Fry Method: The double-fry is the ultimate secret to shatteringly crisp Korean fried chicken. The first fry cooks the chicken through while helping to dry out the crust. Then, a second, hotter fry expels even more moisture to create that signature crunchy exterior and prevent any sogginess ^[3].
• Mind Your Oil Temperature: Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature. If the oil is too cool, your chicken will be greasy; if it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked. Consistency is the key to perfect frying.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Always fry in batches. Overcrowding the pan causes the oil temperature to drop rapidly, which leads to soggy, unevenly cooked chicken. Giving each piece enough space is essential for a proper fry.
• Use Potato Starch: For a distinctively light and delicate crispiness, use potato starch in your batter. This ingredient is key to creating the unique texture that makes Korean fried chicken famous.
• Sauce at the Last Minute: To keep your chicken wonderfully crisp, toss it in the sweet and spicy gochujang sauce right before serving. Saucing it too early will cause the coating to soften.
• Adjust Spice Levels: The beauty of cooking at home is customization. Feel free to adjust the amount of gochujang or gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to make the sauce perfectly suited to your family’s taste.
• Add a Rest Period: Between fries, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This important step allows trapped steam to escape and helps the coating firm up before its second, final fry.
• Garnish for Freshness and Flavor: Elevate your finished dish with simple garnishes. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor, while chopped green onions provide a fresh, vibrant crunch. For even more texture, consider adding crushed peanuts.

By following these simple korean fried chicken tips, you can achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. Enjoy a stress-free cooking experience and get ready to impress everyone with your newfound skills!

What Should I Serve with Korean Fried Chicken?

While Korean fried chicken is a star on its own, the right side dishes can elevate it to a truly amazing meal. These additions help cut through the richness by adding fresh, contrasting flavors and textures. This balance prevents the meal from feeling too heavy and lets you enjoy every bite. Here are some simple and delicious ideas for your next feast.

Classic Korean Pairings

These traditional pairings are a perfect match for any style of Korean fried chicken, offering a delightful contrast in flavor and texture.

• Kimchi: A must-have with almost any Korean dish, kimchi provides a spicy, fermented crunch. There are many varieties, from classic napa cabbage to radish kimchi (kkakdugi), each adding a healthy, tangy kick.
• Pickled Radish (Chicken Mu): These small, sweet, and sour pickled daikon radish cubes are incredibly refreshing. They are meant to cleanse your palate between bites of crispy chicken. They are surprisingly easy to make at home, even for beginners.

Fresh and Flavorful Sides

Light and crisp sides beautifully balance the fried chicken’s richness. These options are quick to prepare and add a welcome touch of freshness.

• Simple Coleslaw: A creamy, cool coleslaw is a perfect match. You can make a traditional Western style or a lighter, vinegar-based Korean version to provide a lovely crunch that cuts through the richness.
• Green Salad with Light Dressing: A mixed greens salad with a tangy dressing is always a good choice. Try a ginger-sesame or a light vinaigrette for a quick and healthy option for your dinner table.
• Cucumber Salad: Sliced cucumbers tossed with a touch of sesame oil, vinegar, and garlic are wonderfully refreshing. This simple side adds a cool counterpoint to the hot, savory chicken.

Complementary Carb Options

While the chicken is filling, adding a simple carbohydrate can turn your snack into a complete meal.

• Steamed Rice: A simple bowl of fluffy white rice is the perfect comforting addition. It soaks up extra sauce and provides a neutral base to balance the chicken’s bold flavors.
• French Fries: For a more Western-style experience, crispy French fries are always a hit. Serve them plain or with a sprinkle of Korean seasoning for a family-friendly favorite.

Perfect Beverages

The right drink completes the Korean fried chicken experience.

• Soft Drinks: Classic choices like cola or lemon-lime soda offer a sweet fizz that pairs well with fried foods.
• Korean Beer or Soju: For adults, cold beer (Maekju) is a traditional pairing. The combination is so popular it has its own name: “Chimaek” (chicken and maekju). Soju, a clear distilled spirit, is also a common choice for an authentic experience. ^[4]

Serving Korean fried chicken with a few thoughtful sides elevates the entire meal. These simple additions help create a more satisfying and balanced dining experience, giving you the confidence to craft a memorable feast every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Sources

1. https://www.seriouseats.com/the-food-lab-korean-fried-chicken-recipe
2. https://www.seriouseats.com/the-food-lab-how-to-fry-crispy-chicken-wings-and-more
3. https://www.seriouseats.com/the-food-lab-how-to-fry-crispy-chicken-wings-best-korean-fried-chicken-recipe
4. https://english.visitkorea.or.kr/enu/ATR/SI_EN_3_6.jsp?cid=1978248