Korean Fried Chicken Recipe: 5 Steps to Crispy Bliss

Name: Korean Fried Chicken Recipe: 5 Steps to Crispy Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken wings; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup cornstarch; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying); 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

By:

Christina R. Jones

July 29, 2025

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Oh my goodness, have you ever tasted Korean fried chicken? It’s like a crunchy, flavorful hug for your taste buds! Seriously, this dish has taken the food world by storm, and for good reason. The crispy texture paired with the spicy-sweet sauce creates an explosion of flavors that just dances on your palate. Trust me, once you have a bite, you’ll be hooked!

Let me tell you a little story. The first time I tried Korean fried chicken was at this cozy little spot downtown. I remember biting into that perfectly fried wing, and the crunch was just heavenly. The sauce was a delightful mix of spice and sweetness that made me want to dive right in for another piece. I thought, “I need to recreate this magic in my own kitchen!” So, after lots of experimenting, I came up with my very own korean fried chicken recipe that I can’t wait for you to try!

This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Whether you’re hosting a game night or just treating yourself to something special, this Korean fried chicken is sure to impress. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

Alright, let’s get down to the good stuff – the ingredients! You’ll want to gather everything you need for this korean fried chicken recipe to make your cooking process smooth and fun. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 lbs of chicken wings
1 cup of all-purpose flour
1 cup of cornstarch
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of onion powder
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
2 cups of vegetable oil (for frying)
1/2 cup of gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1/4 cup of honey
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
1 teaspoon of sesame oil

Make sure to check your pantry for these items before you start! Fresh ingredients make all the difference in achieving that authentic flavor. Trust me, you’ll want every bit of that gochujang goodness in your sauce!

How to Prepare Korean Fried Chicken Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the fun part – making this korean fried chicken recipe come to life! I promise, once you get the hang of these steps, you’ll be frying up wings like a pro. Each part is crucial to that crispy perfection we’re aiming for, so let’s get started!

Preparing the Chicken

First things first, you’ll want to prep those chicken wings. Make sure they’re thawed if they were frozen – nobody likes biting into ice! Pat them dry with paper towels; this helps the coating stick and keeps things crispy. Now, in a big bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. This combo is where the magic begins!

Once that’s all combined, take each chicken wing and coat it generously in the flour mixture. I like to do this in batches to ensure every wing gets an even coating. Just toss them in the bowl, get your hands a little messy, and make sure they’re well coated. You want each wing to be almost dusted like it’s wearing a delicious little jacket!

Frying the Chicken

Okay, let’s heat things up! In a deep pan, pour in 2 cups of vegetable oil. You’ll want to heat that oil to about 350°F (175°C). A handy trick is to drop a little bit of the flour mixture into the oil – if it sizzles right away, you’re good to go! Now, carefully add the coated chicken wings in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 8-10 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are cooked through. Trust me, the smell will be irresistible!

Remember to be careful with hot oil. Use a splatter guard if you have one, and keep a close eye on the temperature. If the oil gets too hot, it can burn the coating, and nobody wants that! Once they’re done, use a slotted spoon to remove the wings and let them drain on paper towels. This little step is key to keeping them crispy!

Making the Sauce

Now for the pièce de résistance – the sauce! In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of gochujang, 1/4 cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth and well combined. The gochujang adds that signature spicy kick, while the honey balances it out perfectly with sweetness. Oh, it’s so good!

Feel free to taste the sauce and adjust it to your liking. Want it spicier? Add a bit more gochujang. Prefer it sweeter? Drizzle in a touch more honey. You’re the chef here, so make it your own!

Tossing and Serving

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Take those beautifully fried wings and toss them in the sauce, making sure each piece gets a lovely coating. I like to do this in a large bowl – it gives you plenty of room to shake, rattle, and roll! You want them coated but not drowning, so don’t be shy, but don’t go overboard either.

Once they’re all sauced up, it’s time to present your masterpiece! Serve them hot, garnished with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and some chopped green onions if you want to get fancy. These little touches add a pop of color and flavor that’s just perfect. Trust me, your guests (or family) will be begging for more!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to whip up this delicious korean fried chicken recipe, here are some pro tips to ensure you achieve that perfect crispy goodness every single time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference!

Let the Chicken Rest

After frying, don’t rush to toss your chicken in the sauce right away. Let those wings rest for a few minutes on paper towels. This step allows them to cool slightly, which helps the coating stay crispy when you finally toss them in that amazing sauce. I know it’s tempting, but patience is key here!

Adjusting the Spice Level

If you’re sensitive to spice or have guests who are, don’t sweat it! The beauty of this korean fried chicken recipe is that you can tweak the gochujang to suit your taste. Start with the recommended amount, and add more little by little until you reach your desired heat. Remember, it’s always easier to add spice than to take it away!

Double Fry for Extra Crispiness

For an ultra-crispy exterior, consider double frying your chicken wings! After the first fry, let them rest for about 5 minutes, then fry them again for an additional 2-3 minutes. This technique creates that addictive crunch that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

Use Fresh Ingredients

Always opt for fresh ingredients when making your sauce. Fresh garlic or green onions can elevate the flavor profile even more. Plus, fresh gochujang can really enhance that authentic taste. If you can, try to find a good-quality brand for the best results!

Experiment with Sauces

Don’t be afraid to get creative with the sauce! While I love the classic gochujang blend, you can mix in other flavors like ginger or sesame seeds for a twist. Feel free to experiment until you find your ultimate version of this chicken. Cooking should be fun and exciting, after all!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create mouthwatering Korean fried chicken that’ll have everyone raving. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a quick look at the typical nutritional values for this korean fried chicken recipe. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they’ll give you a good idea of what you’re biting into:

Calories: 400
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 25g

These wings pack a flavorful punch while still being relatively balanced. Just keep in mind portion sizes if you’re keeping an eye on your intake! But honestly, who could resist a few extra pieces of this crispy goodness?

FAQ Section

Got questions? No problem! I’ve gathered some common queries about this korean fried chicken recipe to help you out. Let’s get into it!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of wings?

Absolutely! While chicken wings are traditional for Korean fried chicken, you can definitely use chicken breasts. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on them to ensure they’re cooked through and crispy!

What if I can’t find gochujang?

No worries! If gochujang is hard to come by, you can substitute it with a mix of miso paste and a little bit of hot sauce for heat. It won’t be the same, but it’ll give you a nice flavor kick. Just adjust the quantities to your taste, and don’t be afraid to experiment!

How do I store leftovers?

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy texture. Microwaving might leave them soggy, so I’d recommend avoiding that if you can!

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can definitely make the sauce a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before tossing it with your fried chicken. The flavors will even deepen a bit as it sits, making it even more delicious!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it can be! Just make sure to use a gluten-free all-purpose flour and check that your gochujang is gluten-free as well. Many brands offer gluten-free options nowadays, so you can still enjoy this tasty dish without any worries!

Hopefully, these answers help you feel more confident about making this delicious korean fried chicken recipe. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out – I’m here to help!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you why this korean fried chicken recipe is going to become your new favorite! First off, that crispy texture is simply unbeatable. Each bite gives you that satisfying crunch that makes you want to keep going back for more. Seriously, it’s like a party in your mouth!

Next, the preparation time is super quick. You can whip up this dish in just about 50 minutes, and trust me, it’s worth every minute spent. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings with friends! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to impress your guests with a dish that tastes like it’s been ordered from a fancy restaurant.

And let’s talk about that sauce! The combination of gochujang, honey, and soy sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s both sweet and spicy. You can adjust it to your liking, making it as mild or fiery as you want. It’s such a delightful medley that you might find yourself licking the bowl clean!

Plus, this recipe is super versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or as party snacks, it fits right in. Pair it with some pickled radishes or a side of rice, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. Your friends will be asking for the recipe in no time!

So, if you’re looking for a dish that’s crispy, quick, and packed with flavor, this Korean fried chicken is the answer. Get ready to wow your taste buds and those around you!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got this delicious korean fried chicken recipe ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to really elevate your meal! Trust me, the right sides can make all the difference and turn a great dish into a truly memorable feast.

First up, I highly recommend serving your crispy wings with some pickled radishes. Their sweet and tangy crunch complements the spicy-sweet sauce perfectly. Plus, they add a beautiful pop of color to your plate! You can either buy them from the store or make your own quickly by soaking radish slices in a mix of vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt.

Another fantastic pairing is a side of steamed rice. The fluffy texture and mild flavor of rice balance out the boldness of the Korean fried chicken. You can even drizzle a little extra sauce over the rice for a tasty twist!

If you want to keep it fresh, consider a simple salad with crisp greens tossed in a light sesame dressing. The freshness will contrast beautifully with the richness of the fried chicken, making every bite feel balanced and delightful.

Also, don’t forget about kimchi! This fermented staple brings a spicy kick and a tangy flavor that pairs incredibly well with fried chicken. It’s a classic combination that’ll have your taste buds dancing!

Lastly, serve up some cold beers or a refreshing iced tea to wash it all down. The effervescence of beer cuts through the richness of the chicken, and iced tea adds a refreshing touch as you enjoy this delightful meal.

With these serving suggestions, your Korean fried chicken experience will be nothing short of amazing. So gather your friends or family, serve it up, and get ready for an unforgettable feast!

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