When the craving for something crispy and flavorful hits, there’s nothing quite like the allure of Korean Fried Chicken. Imagine the crunch of a perfectly golden, buttermilk-coated piece of chicken, just waiting to be tossed in a luscious gochujang sauce that’s both spicy and sweet. I first discovered this culinary treasure while searching for ways to jazz up my dinner routine, and let me tell you—this dish quickly became a staple in my kitchen. Perfect for family gatherings or an indulgent weeknight meal, this fried chicken promises a satisfying crunch with every bite, while the sticky, savory glaze makes it utterly irresistible.
Whether you’re looking to impress friends or simply treat yourself to a comforting dish, this recipe delivers on both taste and ease. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the delightful world of Korean Fried Chicken, where bold flavors meet delightful textures!
Why is Korean Fried Chicken so irresistible?
Crispy Texture: Every bite offers a satisfying crunch, thanks to the buttermilk coating that locks in moisture and flavor.
Spicy-Sweet Harmony: The gochujang sauce perfectly balances heat and sweetness, providing a unique twist that keeps you coming back for more.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively get-together, this dish is sure to impress and delight everyone at the table.
Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s easy to whip up this gourmet dish without a hassle.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with steamed rice or stuff it into bao buns for a delightful fusion experience, making it a versatile meal choice.
Dive into this flavor-packed experience and discover why it’s a beloved favorite!
Korean Fried Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Sliced into strips for even cooking and maximum tenderness.
• Buttermilk – Tenderizes the chicken while adding a deep flavor; you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a splash of vinegar.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor and is essential for seasoning.
• White Pepper – Adds a subtle heat and earthiness; can be replaced with black pepper for a different profile.
• Garlic Salt – Provides savory depth; fresh minced garlic is a great substitute if you have it on hand.
For the Crispy Coating
• Plain Flour – Forms the base of the crispy coating; no suitable substitute for achieving the desired texture.
• Ground Black Pepper – Adds an extra kick; use white pepper for milder flavor.
• Celery Salt – Introduces a unique flavor component; you can omit or substitute with regular salt if needed.
• Dried Thyme – Imparts warm earthy notes; replace with oregano for a twist.
• Paprika – Contributes beautiful color and mild flavor; smoked paprika enhances the taste further.
• Baking Powder – Helps achieve a light and crispy texture; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Chilli Flakes – Adds the perfect amount of heat; adjust based on your personal spice preference.
• Oil for Frying – Facilitates cooking and creates that signature crispy exterior; avocado oil is recommended, but vegetable oil can work too.
For the Sauce
• Gochujang Paste – The key ingredient for that spicy and slightly sweet Korean flavor; essential for authentic Korean Fried Chicken.
• Honey – Balances the spice with sweetness; maple syrup is an acceptable substitute.
• Brown Sugar – Adds caramel notes to the sauce; white sugar can be used in a pinch.
• Soy Sauce – Provides saltiness and umami; consider tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
• Garlic and Ginger – Freshly minced for depth and aroma; dried versions may lack robustness.
• Sesame Oil – Adds nuttiness; use sparingly due to its strong flavor.
• Spring Onions – Provides a fresh garnish for crunch; chives can be a good stand-in.
• Sesame Seeds and Chilli Flakes – Finish the dish with these; toasted sesame seeds are recommended for extra richness.
How to Make Korean Fried Chicken
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Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine chicken strips, buttermilk, salt, white pepper, and garlic salt. Cover and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to tenderize and infuse flavor.
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Prepare Oil: Heat a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat and pour in enough vegetable oil to reach about 2 inches deep. The oil is ready when a bread cube sizzles upon contact.
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Mix Coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, ground black pepper, celery salt, dried thyme, paprika, baking powder, and chilli flakes until evenly distributed.
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Coat Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator, allowing any excess buttermilk to drip off. Dredge each strip in the flour mixture, ensuring a good coating on all sides.
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Fry Chicken: Carefully lower the coated chicken strips into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 3-5 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through; you want a beautifully crispy exterior!
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Keep Warm: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack or a tray lined with paper towels. Keep it warm in a low oven while you fry the remaining strips.
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Make Sauce: In a separate saucepan, combine the gochujang paste, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
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Combine: Toss the warm, crispy fried chicken in the gochujang sauce until well coated. Serve hot, garnished with chopped spring onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chilli flakes.
Optional: Serve with steamed rice or tucked inside bao buns for a delightful twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Korean Fried Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists that will inspire your creativity in the kitchen!
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Air Fryer: For a healthier version, cook the chicken in an air fryer, adjusting the time for desired crispness.
This method yields a remarkably light and crispy coating, cutting down on excess oil without sacrificing flavor. -
Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts for thighs to enjoy extra moisture and richer flavor.
The tender, juicy meat pairs wonderfully with the crunchy coating and spicy sauce, elevating your dish. -
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
This ensures everyone can savor the same indulgent taste without missing out on the fun! -
Crispy Baked Version: For a lighter take, bake the coated chicken in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes.
This results in a crusty coating while reducing the need for frying oil! -
Flavor Boost: Add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for an extra kick.
Adjust according to your spice tolerance and you’ll enjoy a deeper, more complex flavor profile. -
Sweet Mango Sauce: Create a twist by pairing with a sweet mango sauce rather than the traditional gochujang.
The fruity notes will bring a fresh dimension to your fried chicken experience! -
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the gochujang sauce for a unique flavor boost.
This adds freshness that beautifully complements the rich, spicy glaze, making every bite a delightful adventure! -
Stuffed Bao Buns: Serve the coated chicken inside soft bao buns along with pickled veggies for a fun fusion meal.
This creates an unexpected yet comforting experience that will surely impress your guests!
What to Serve with Korean Fried Chicken?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing this crispy, indulgent dish with delightful sides that complement its bold flavors.
- Steamed Rice: A fluffy base to soak up the luscious gochujang sauce, balancing spice with a soothing texture.
- Asian Slaw: Crunchy vegetables tossed in a tangy sesame dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken, adding vibrancy to your meal.
- Kimchi: This traditional fermented side brings a tangy, spicy kick that amplifies the flavor profile of your fried chicken. Perfect to awaken your taste buds!
- Pickled Vegetables: Sweet and tangy pickled veggies cut through the richness of the chicken, enhancing the overall dining experience with their crispness.
- Garlic Noodles: These flavorful noodles offer a satisfying chew, perfectly seasoned to pair with the spicy chicken and add a comforting element to the dish.
- Cold Beer or Soju: A chilled beverage helps balance the heat of the gochujang sauce, creating a refreshing complement to each crispy bite.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy dish contrasts beautifully with the savory flavors of the chicken, rounding out your meal perfectly.
- Cucumber Salad: Lightly seasoned, this salad adds a delightful crunch and bright flavor, providing a refreshing palate cleanse between bites.
Make Ahead Options
These crispy Korean Fried Chicken strips are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in buttermilk with seasonings up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse and the chicken to become incredibly tender. Additionally, you can mix the dry coating ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply dredge the marinated chicken in the coating, fry until golden brown, and toss with the gochujang sauce. This way, you can achieve that signature crunch and irresistible flavor just when you need it, saving time on busy weeknights without sacrificing quality!
How to Store and Freeze Korean Fried Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Korean Fried Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day to maintain flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Sauce Storage: Keep any leftover gochujang sauce in a separate container in the fridge for up to a week; this helps maintain the chicken’s crispiness when serving later.
Expert Tips for Korean Fried Chicken
• Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying—around 350°F (175°C) is ideal for a crispy exterior without excess grease.
• Batch Frying: Avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure every piece cooks evenly and crisply.
• Let it Rest: For the crispiest results, let the fried chicken drain on a wire rack rather than paper towels, which can trap moisture and make it soggy.
• Sauce Timing: Toss the chicken in the gochujang sauce just before serving. This keeps the crispy texture intact and elevates the overall flavor of your Korean Fried Chicken.
• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of chilli flakes in the coating or the sauce according to your heat preference, ensuring everyone can enjoy this spicy delicacy.
Korean Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I highly recommend using chicken breasts sliced into strips for even cooking. If you prefer more flavor and moisture, chicken thighs are a great alternative. Just be sure to trim any excess fat and remove the skin if you’d like a lighter dish.
How should I store leftover Korean Fried Chicken?
Store any leftover Korean Fried Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 1 day. To maintain its famous crispy texture, avoid storing the chicken and sauce together. Instead, keep the sauce in a separate container to prevent sogginess.
Can I freeze Korean Fried Chicken?
Very much so! To freeze, first, lay the fried chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. This step takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the chicken to a freezer-safe bag. Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen or thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why is my chicken not crispy?
If your chicken isn’t coming out crispy, there are a couple of things to check. Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F or 175°C). If it’s too cool, the chicken will absorb oil, resulting in greasiness. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan while frying; this allows each piece to have enough space to crisp up properly. For optimum crunchiness, drain the fried chicken on a wire rack instead of paper towels.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version of Korean Fried Chicken, swap out the plain flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and use tamari in place of soy sauce. These substitutes will help you enjoy the same delicious taste without the gluten, and I often make this variation for family gatherings!
Is Korean Fried Chicken safe for pets?
While your dog might give you pleading eyes while cooking, it’s best to avoid sharing. Ingredients like garlic and certain spices in the gochujang sauce can be harmful to pets. Always consult your vet if you’re considering sharing any new food with your furry friends.
Crispy Korean Fried Chicken that Will Blow Your Taste Buds Away
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine chicken strips, buttermilk, salt, white pepper, and garlic salt. Cover and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Heat a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat and pour in oil to reach about 2 inches deep.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the plain flour, ground black pepper, celery salt, dried thyme, paprika, baking powder, and chilli flakes.
- Remove the marinated chicken and dredge each strip in the flour mixture, ensuring a good coating.
- Carefully lower the coated chicken strips into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 3-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a wire rack or paper towels and keep warm in a low oven.
- In a saucepan, combine gochujang paste, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Toss the fried chicken in the gochujang sauce until well coated. Serve hot, garnished with spring onions and sesame seeds.