Best Korean Fried Chicken Recipe

Korean fried chicken is famous for its ultra-crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful interior. Coated in a mouthwatering, sweet, spicy, and sticky sauce, it’s a must-try for any fried chicken lover. This recipe will guide you through making authentic Korean fried chicken at home, complete with tips for achieving the perfect crunch!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs chicken wings or drumettes
• 1 cup cornstarch (or potato starch)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 egg
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a large bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg with cold water.
3. Dip the chicken pieces into the egg mixture, then coat evenly with the flour mixture. Set aside.

Step 2: Double Fry for Extra Crispiness

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the chicken in batches for about 7-8 minutes or until lightly golden.
3. Remove from oil and drain on a wire rack.
4. Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry the chicken again for another 2-3 minutes until crispy and deep golden brown.
5. Drain excess oil and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and ginger, then sauté for about 30 seconds.
3. Stir in gochujang, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, ketchup, and sesame oil.
4. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened, then remove from heat.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

1. Toss the crispy fried chicken in the prepared sauce until evenly coated.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

FAQs

1. Why is Korean fried chicken so crispy? Korean fried chicken is double-fried, which removes excess moisture and creates an extra crunchy texture.

2. Can I use boneless chicken? Yes! You can use boneless chicken thighs or breast, cut into bite-sized pieces.

3. What can I serve with Korean fried chicken? It pairs well with pickled radish, coleslaw, or steamed rice.

4. Can I bake or air-fry the chicken instead? Yes! To air-fry, cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.

Notes & More

• For extra heat, add more gochujang or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• If you don’t have cornstarch, potato starch works great as a substitute.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in an oven for best results.

Now you’re ready to make the best homemade Korean fried chicken! Enjoy!