Go Back
+ servings
Korean Fried Chicken

Irresistible Korean Fried Chicken with Sweet-Spicy Crunch

This Korean Fried Chicken recipe offers a sweet-and-spicy sauce and a crunchy texture that rivals takeout, perfect for indulgent nights in.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 wings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 4 cups Vegetable Oil For frying; use enough to fully submerge the chicken wings.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances flavor; distribute evenly during seasoning.
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper Adjust according to taste preference.
  • 1 cup Baking Powder Essential for an extra crispy coating.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Provides savory undertones.
  • 2 pounds Chicken Wings The star of the dish; avoid skinless pieces.
  • 1 tablespoon Freshly Grated Ginger Adds warmth and zest.
  • 1 cup Cornstarch Crucial for creating that flaky, crunchy texture.
For the Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Brings richness to the sauce.
  • 4 small Dried Red Chilis Infuses heat; customize according to spice tolerance.
  • 1 tablespoon Freshly Minced Ginger Boosts the sauce's flavor profile.
  • 4 cloves Garlic, Minced Adds depth; fresh cloves recommended.
  • 3 tablespoons Gochujang Sets the sauce apart with authentic spice.
  • 1/2 cup Ketchup Balances flavors with sweetness.
  • 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar Provides acidity.
  • 1/4 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce Adds umami.
  • 1/4 cup Honey Natural sweetener.
  • 1/4 cup Packed Brown Sugar Enhances sweetness.
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Cocktail Peanuts Optional crunch factor.
  • 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds For visual appeal.
  • 2 tablespoons Green Onion, Sliced Adds a fresh finish.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Deep pot
  • Slotted spoon
  • Candy Thermometer
  • Saucepan
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels. In a large mixing bowl, combine kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, baking powder, and garlic powder. Toss the dried wings in the seasoning mixture and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to approximately 300°F (150°C). Carefully place the marinated wings in the oil, frying them for about 10-15 minutes until light golden. Transfer them to a wire rack to rest.
  3. Increase the temperature of the oil to 375°F (190°C) for the second fry.
  4. Carefully add the rested wings back into the oil in batches and fry for about 5-7 minutes until deep golden brown and ultra-crispy.
  5. While the chicken is frying, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and freshly grated ginger, sauté for 1-2 minutes. Then incorporate gochujang, ketchup, rice vinegar, low-sodium soy sauce, honey, and brown sugar. Stir until well-blended and simmer for 5 minutes.
  6. Once the wings are golden brown, remove them and drain on a wire rack. Toss them in the saucepan with the sauce until thoroughly coated.
  7. Plate the chicken wings and sprinkle with cocktail peanuts, sesame seeds, and sliced green onions. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1wingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 28gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gCalcium: 15mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure chicken wings are patted dry before marinating for maximum crispiness. Monitor oil temperature for best results.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!