Korean Fried Chicken

Introduction

Korean Fried Chicken elevates the familiar fried chicken experience with impossibly crisp skin, juicy interiors, and addictive sauces. What makes this dish a true crowd-pleaser is its contrast of textures and the complex flavors packed into every bite—sweet, spicy, garlicky, and savory. Korean Fried Chicken is the ultimate centerpiece for gatherings, game days, or a memorable dinner feast.

What Makes Korean Fried Chicken Irresistible

Unlike American fried chicken, the Korean version uses a double-frying technique that yields an ultra-thin, crackling crust. The chicken stays incredibly succulent due to a quick marination, while the final toss in a sticky, punchy glaze insures every piece is bursting with flavor. Serve it hot, with sides of pickled radish and your favorite bubbly beverage.

Prepping Your Chicken for Perfection

Flavor begins long before the frying. For best results, use fresh, bone-in chicken wings or drumettes. Chop garlic, ginger, and green onions for the marinade—speed things up with a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper to create uniform pieces and cut down on prep time. Marinate the chicken in a mix of soy sauce, rice wine, ginger, and a pinch of sugar for at least 30 minutes.

For even frying, pat the chicken dry and dredge in a blend of cornstarch and flour. This ensures the signature light and shatteringly crisp coating.

The Art of Frying Korean Chicken

Korean Fried Chicken shines with its double-frying process—fry the chicken once for doneness and a second time for maximum crunch. Use a reliable nonstick skillet like the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch to avoid sticking and to maintain even heat. Monitor oil temperature with a digital thermometer such as the ThermoPro TP19H Digital Meat Thermometer for Cooking so every piece is perfectly crisped and juicy.

If you want a lighter version, an air fryer like the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Grey can achieve a beautifully crispy result with minimal oil. Line your basket with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll to help prevent sticking and ease cleanup.

Saucing Your Korean Fried Chicken

The sauce transforms your crispy chicken into a flavor bomb. The classic recipe uses a blend of gochujang (Korean chili paste), ketchup, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and a splash of rice vinegar. Whisk the sauce together until smooth, and after frying, toss the chicken in the sauce (or serve it on the side if you want to preserve maximum crunch).

Serving Suggestions & Sides

For an authentic experience, serve your Korean Fried Chicken with crunchy pickled radishes and fresh cabbage slaw (prepare veggies effortlessly with your Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper). Present the feast on a disposable Pureegg Plastic Table Cloth Disposable 10 Pack, White for stress-free entertaining and cleanup. Don’t forget icy drinks to balance the heat!

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe serves 4–6, with each serving (depending on portion size and use of sauce) ranging from 350–450 calories. While indulgent, Korean Fried Chicken is best enjoyed as a special treat!

Korean Fried Chicken—The Ultimate Crispy, Saucy Delight (Recap)

Korean Fried Chicken delivers crunch, juiciness, and bold flavor with every bite. Double frying and a luscious glaze take it to the next level, making it ideal for wow-worthy gatherings or comfort food nights.

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, ginger, garlic, green onions, 2 tbsp soy sauce, rice wine, and sugar. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge).
2. Pat chicken pieces dry. In a new bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Dredge chicken in the mixture to coat completely.
3. Heat 2 inches of oil in your SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch to 340°F. Fry the chicken in batches for 6–8 minutes until just cooked. Remove and drain on a rack. Raise oil temp to 375°F, fry chicken again for 2–3 more minutes until golden and shatteringly crisp.
4. Meanwhile, combine all sauce ingredients in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 2–3 minutes until glossy and combined.
5. Toss chicken pieces in the warm sauce (or serve sauce as a dip, if desired). Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
6. Arrange on a platter and serve immediately with pickled radish, slaw, and your favorite chilled beverage.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating)

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes–1 hour 30 minutes (including marinate)