Plate of crispy Korean Fried Chicken with dipping sauce and side dishes.

Korean Fried Chicken

ByCasey Monroe

why make this recipe

Korean Fried Chicken is a delicious and crispy dish that has become popular around the world. Its unique flavor comes from a perfect blend of seasonings and frying techniques that make each bite irresistible. With its crunchy exterior and juicy interior, this chicken can serve as an excellent appetizer or a tasty main meal. Plus, it’s fun to make at home!

how to make Korean Fried Chicken

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs, quartered
  • 1/2 yellow onion, grated
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fine salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 cups oil for frying, or as needed
  • 3/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup self-rising flour
  • 1 teaspoon white sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup very cold water, or as needed

Directions:

  1. In a medium bowl, stir together chicken, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper until the chicken is coated.
  2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours to overnight.
  3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 340 degrees F (171 degrees C).
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together cornstarch, flour, sugar, pepper, and salt.
  5. Gradually whisk in cold water until the mixture resembles a smooth batter.
  6. Use tongs to remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the batter; stir to coat the chicken completely and discard the marinade.
  7. Working in batches, fry the chicken in hot oil for 4 minutes, then transfer the chicken to a cooling rack.
  8. Increase the oil temperature to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C), then fry the chicken again until golden brown and crispy for 3 to 4 minutes.
  9. Transfer to a wire rack to drain. Enjoy!

how to serve Korean Fried Chicken

Serve Korean Fried Chicken hot and crispy. You can enjoy it plain or toss it in a spicy sauce for extra flavor. Pair it with pickled radishes or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the crunchiness. It’s also great as finger food for parties or casual gatherings.

how to store Korean Fried Chicken

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until heated through and crispy again.

tips to make Korean Fried Chicken

  • Make sure to refrigerate the chicken for several hours to help it absorb the flavors and become more tender.
  • Use very cold water when making the batter; this helps create a crispy texture.
  • Fry the chicken in small batches to ensure that the oil temperature stays consistent.

variation

You can try adding different spices or sauces to the batter for a unique twist. Spicy gochujang sauce can add a nice kick, or you can toss the fried chicken in a sweet soy-garlic glaze for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but thighs generally yield a juicier and more flavorful result.

2. Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the chicken, but it may not be as crispy. Bake at 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

3. How do I make the chicken spicy?
Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the marinade or the batter for a spicy kick.