Spicy, Sweet, and Crispy Korean Fried Chicken Recipe

Are you craving something crispy, flavorful, and just the right amount of spicy? This Korean Fried Chicken recipe is the perfect solution! Packed with a sweet and spicy sauce that clings to perfectly fried, crunchy chicken, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a casual gathering with friends. This recipe will truly bring a delicious twist to your table.

How to Make Korean Fried Chicken?

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Marinate Time: 1 hour | Cook Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4-5

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Breading:

- - 2 chicken breasts (cut into long, thick strips)
  - 1/2 cup buttermilk
  - Salt and pepper (to taste)
  - 1 tablespoon crushed garlic
  - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  - 1/2 cup cornstarch
  - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  - 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  - Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Sauce:

- - 1 tablespoon gochujang paste
  - 1 tablespoon honey
  - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  - 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  - 1 clove garlic (minced)
  - 1 teaspoon chopped ginger
  - 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  - 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  - 2 scallions (cut into thin strips)
  - 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
  - 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes

Instructions

1. Place the chicken strips in a bowl and add buttermilk, crushed garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well, cover the bowl, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the chicken to absorb all the flavors.

2. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning throughout the breading mixture.

3. Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat and add enough vegetable oil for deep frying. Dredge the marinated chicken strips in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Once the oil is hot (about 350°F), carefully place the breaded chicken in the pan. Fry for 3-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use kitchen tongs to remove the chicken and set it aside on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Frying chicken to use for making Korean Fried Chicken.

4. In a saucepan over medium heat, add vegetable oil and sesame oil. Add the chopped garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the gochujang paste, honey, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Place the fried chicken in a large bowl. Pour the sauce over the chicken and toss gently to coat each piece evenly. Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, and chili flakes before serving.

Korean Fried Chicken Tips and Variations

Use wings or drumsticks. If you prefer, you can use chicken wings or drumsticks instead of chicken breast strips.
Make it spicier. For those who love an extra kick, add more chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
For a healthier alternative, try air frying the chicken instead of deep frying for a lighter version.
Serve with sides. Korean fried chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice, pickled radish, or a crisp green salad.

Health Benefits of Korean Fried Chicken

While fried chicken is often considered indulgent, this recipe offers several nutritional benefits:

Protein-rich: Chicken breast provides a good amount of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
Ginger and garlic: Both ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties and boost the immune system.
Spices: Gochujang and chili flakes contain capsaicin, known to aid metabolism.

A plate of Korean Fried Chicken with kimchi on the side.

Try Korean Fried Chicken Today!

This Spicy, Sweet, and Crispy Korean Fried Chicken recipe is truly an experience that will give you an authentic taste of Korea! With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. So, give it a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below.

Love this recipe? Share it with your friends on social media and tag us at @zulaykitchen with #kitchenhappiness!

Kitchen Tools You Need

Mixing bowls: For marinating the chicken and preparing the breading.
Frying pan: A deep frying pan or skillet works best for frying the chicken.
Tongs: Essential for handling the chicken safely while frying.
Saucepan: To prepare the delicious Korean-style sauce.
Paper towels: For draining excess oil after frying.

Shop some of these kitchen tools at Zulay Kitchen to make your cooking experience even better!

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A bowl of Korean Fried Chicken for dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Korean Fried Chicken

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Boneless chicken thighs work just as well and provide a juicier texture. Simply cut them into strips and follow the same marination and breading process.

What is gochujang paste, and where can I find it?

Gochujang is a Korean fermented chili paste that adds a sweet, spicy flavor. You can find it in most Asian grocery stores or online.

How do I make the chicken extra crispy?

Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Using cornstarch in the breading also helps achieve that signature crunch.