Korean Fried Chicken Recipe

Description

Korean Fried Chicken is one of South Korea's most iconic comfort foods, famous for its incredibly crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat. Unlike traditional fried chicken, Korean-style chicken is double-fried, creating a light, crunchy coating that stays crisp even after being tossed in a rich, flavorful sauce.

This authentic recipe features bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a seasoned batter, fried until perfectly golden, and glazed with a sticky Korean sauce made from gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, honey, and sesame oil. Whether you're serving it for dinner, game day, or a weekend gathering, this homemade Korean Fried Chicken delivers restaurant-quality flavor every time.

Preparation Time: 25 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Rest Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Servings: 4 people

Difficulty: Easy

Why You Will Love This Korean Fried Chicken

• Ultra crispy with the classic double-fried technique.
• Juicy and tender inside.
• Sweet, spicy, and savory Korean glaze.
• Better than takeout.
• Great for parties and family dinners.
• Beginner-friendly recipe.
• Authentic Korean flavors.
• Perfect with rice, pickled radish, or beer.

How to Make Korean Fried Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and ginger.

Allow it to rest for 10 minutes.

2. Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl combine:

Cornstarch

All-purpose flour

Baking powder

Cold water

Egg

Mix until a smooth batter forms.

3. Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken piece into the batter.

Coat evenly.

Shake off any excess batter.

4. First Fry

Heat oil to 340°F (170°C).

Fry the chicken for about 6–7 minutes until lightly golden.

Transfer to a wire rack.

Let rest for 5 minutes.

5. Second Fry

Increase oil temperature to 375°F (190°C).

Fry again for 2–3 minutes until extra crispy and deep golden brown.

Drain on a wire rack.

6. Make the Sauce

In a saucepan combine:

Gochujang

Ketchup

Soy sauce

Honey

Brown sugar

Garlic

Rice vinegar

Sesame oil

Cook over medium heat for about 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

7. Coat the Chicken

Add the crispy chicken to a large bowl.

Pour the warm sauce over the chicken.

Toss gently until evenly coated.

8. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Serve immediately while crispy.

Tips for Perfect Korean Fried Chicken

• Double frying creates maximum crispiness.
• Dry the chicken thoroughly before coating.
• Use cornstarch for a lighter crust.
• Do not overcrowd the fryer.
• Toss in sauce just before serving.
• Maintain proper oil temperature for even frying.

Delicious Recipe Variations

Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken

Skip the gochujang and use extra soy sauce, garlic, and honey.

Extra Spicy Chicken

Add Korean chili flakes (gochugaru).

Honey Butter Chicken

Coat the fried chicken with honey butter instead of spicy sauce.

Cheese Korean Fried Chicken

Top with grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese powder.

Boneless Chicken Bites

Use boneless chicken breast instead of thighs.

What to Serve with Korean Fried Chicken

• Steamed white rice
• Pickled Korean radish
• Kimchi
• Coleslaw
• French fries
• Korean potato salad
• Cucumber salad
• Cold noodles

How to Store Leftover Korean Fried Chicken

Allow the chicken to cool completely.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat in an oven or air fryer until crispy.

Can Korean Fried Chicken Be Frozen?

Yes.

Freeze the fried (unsauced) chicken for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven until hot and crispy before tossing with fresh sauce.