Korean Fried Chicken: 1 Incredible Recipe

Name: Korean Fried Chicken: 1 Incredible Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings or drumsticks; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying); For Marinade:; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; For Sauce:; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste); 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

by Fenna Saul

October 7, 2025

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Korean Fried Chicken Incredible has completely changed my weeknight dinners. I first experienced this dish at a tiny restaurant in Koreatown, and the shatteringly crisp exterior followed by the tender, juicy chicken was an absolute revelation. The sweet and spicy glaze clinging to each piece was so addicting, I knew I had to recreate that amazing Korean Fried Chicken taste at home. The aroma alone, a mix of garlic, ginger, and that signature gochujang, fills my kitchen and makes my family rush to the table. If you’re looking for an easy incredible Korean Fried Chicken recipe that rivals takeout, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Incredible Korean Fried Chicken

Get ready to fall in love with this amazing Korean Fried Chicken! It’s a true showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

Unforgettable Taste: Experience that signature crispy exterior and juicy interior with a perfectly balanced sweet and spicy glaze. It’s truly delicious!
Quick Prep Time: Even with marinating, the active prep is minimal, making it manageable for busy weeknights.
Budget-Friendly Feast: Making this at home is significantly cheaper than ordering incredible Korean Fried Chicken takeout.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore this flavorful dish, making it perfect for gatherings or a special family meal.
Crispy Texture Guaranteed: The double-frying technique ensures an incredibly crispy Korean Fried Chicken that stays that way.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of gochujang, honey, and soy sauce creates a deeply satisfying Korean Fried Chicken flavor profile.
Impress Your Guests: Serve this authentic Korean Fried Chicken and watch their faces light up with delight!

Ingredients for Incredible Korean Fried Chicken

Gather these ingredients for a truly amazing Korean Fried Chicken experience. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create this delicious dish with these components!

2 pounds chicken wings or drumsticks – the foundation for that incredible Korean Fried Chicken taste.
1 cup all-purpose flour – creates the base for our crispy coating.
1/2 cup cornstarch – essential for that shatteringly crisp Korean Fried Chicken texture.
2 teaspoons baking powder – helps achieve maximum crispiness.
1 teaspoon salt – enhances all the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – adds a subtle warmth.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – for a little savory depth.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder – complements the garlic.
2 cups vegetable oil (for frying) – use a neutral oil for best results.
For Marinade:
1/4 cup soy sauce – the salty base of our marinade.
2 tablespoons rice vinegar – adds a touch of tanginess.
1 tablespoon sesame oil – for that distinct nutty aroma.
4 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic is key for authentic flavor.
1 tablespoon ginger, grated – adds a zesty kick.
For Sauce:
1/4 cup honey – provides sweetness for that classic Korean Fried Chicken glaze.
2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste) – the heart of the spicy and savory Korean Fried Chicken flavor.
1 tablespoon soy sauce – balances the sauce’s sweetness.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar – cuts through the richness.

How to Make Incredible Korean Fried Chicken

Now for the magic! This is where we turn simple chicken into an absolutely amazing Korean Fried Chicken masterpiece. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be rewarded with the best crispy Korean Fried Chicken you’ve ever tasted.

Marinate Chicken

First, let’s get our chicken ready for its flavor transformation. In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add your chicken pieces, making sure each one is coated in this aromatic marinade. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 45 minutes. This step is crucial for infusing that authentic Korean Fried Chicken taste!

Prepare Coating

While the chicken is marinating, it’s time to create the secret to its incredible crunch. In a separate medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Give it a good whisk until everything is thoroughly mixed. This dry coating is what will give us that signature shatteringly crispy Korean Fried Chicken texture we all crave.

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Heat Oil and Fry Chicken

Get your frying station ready! In a heavy-bottomed pot or a deep fryer, pour in about 2 cups of vegetable oil. Heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully remove the marinated chicken from the fridge, letting any excess marinade drip off. Dredge each piece generously in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Gently place the coated chicken into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid crowding the pot. Fry for about 7-8 minutes until it’s a pale golden color. Remove the chicken and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Now, crank up the heat to 375°F (190°C). Fry the chicken again for another 2-3 minutes until it’s deeply golden brown and incredibly crispy. This double-frying is the key to that amazing Korean Fried Chicken texture! For more information on safe frying practices, you can check out resources on deep frying safety.

Make the Korean Fried Chicken Sauce

While the chicken is having its second fry, prepare the star of the show: the sauce! In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, gochujang (Korean red chili paste), soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Stir constantly until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. You’ll smell the delicious sweet and spicy aroma filling your kitchen – that’s the signature Korean Fried Chicken flavor developing!

Finishing Touches

Once your chicken is perfectly fried and crispy, it’s time to bring it all together. Place the hot, double-fried chicken into a large, clean bowl. Pour the warm Korean Fried Chicken sauce over the top. Toss gently but thoroughly until every piece of chicken is beautifully coated in that glossy, irresistible glaze. For an extra touch, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or some finely chopped green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy your amazing Korean Fried Chicken! If you’re looking for more amazing recipes, check out our recipes section.

Pro Tips for the Best Incredible Korean Fried Chicken

Want to elevate your Korean Fried Chicken game? These tips will help you achieve that restaurant-quality crunch and flavor right at home. Making this dish incredible is all about a few key techniques that truly make a difference.

Always use fresh chicken for the best texture.
Ensure your oil temperature is accurate for both frying stages.
Don’t overcrowd the pot; fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and achieve maximum crispiness.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after the second fry before saucing.

What’s the secret to perfectly crispy Korean Fried Chicken?

The secret lies in the double-frying technique. Frying twice at slightly different temperatures ensures the coating cooks through and becomes incredibly crispy, giving you that amazing Korean Fried Chicken texture.

Can I make Korean Fried Chicken ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. However, for that signature crispiness, it’s best to fry and sauce the chicken right before serving. The coating won’t stay as crisp if fried too early.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Korean Fried Chicken?

Avoid using cold chicken directly from the fridge for coating, as it can cause the coating to clump. Also, resist the urge to stir the chicken too much during frying, as this can break the coating and lead to sogginess.

Best Ways to Serve Incredible Korean Fried Chicken

This incredible Korean Fried Chicken is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with a few classic Korean sides. Serving it hot and fresh is key to enjoying that amazing Korean Fried Chicken experience. For a truly authentic meal, try serving it alongside some simple steamed white rice to soak up any extra delicious sauce. A refreshing pickled radish (danmuji) is also a fantastic contrast to the richness and spice. You could also serve it with a light, crisp Korean cucumber salad or some quick-pickled onions for a bright, palate-cleansing element. These pairings make for an unforgettable and delicious Korean Fried Chicken feast! For other delicious meat dishes, consider our Turkey Meatloaf Recipe.

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Nutrition Facts for Incredible Korean Fried Chicken

This recipe for incredible Korean Fried Chicken is a treat best enjoyed in moderation. Here are the estimated nutritional values per serving, giving you a snapshot of this delicious dish.

Calories: 450 kcal
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 750mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Incredible Korean Fried Chicken

Even though this incredible Korean Fried Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, you might have leftovers. To store, let the chicken cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled chicken pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store them in your freezer for up to 3 months. This helps preserve the flavor and texture for future enjoyment of this delicious dish. For other great appetizer ideas, try our Boat Dip Rotel Ranch Dip.

Reheating is key to bringing back some of that amazing Korean Fried Chicken crispiness. The oven is your best bet! Spread the leftovers on a baking sheet and reheat at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crisped up again. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain any semblance of crispiness, as it tends to make the chicken soggy. Enjoy your reheated incredible Korean Fried Chicken!

Frequently Asked Questions About Korean Fried Chicken

What makes Korean Fried Chicken so incredibly crispy?

The magic behind that amazing Korean Fried Chicken texture is a two-step frying process. First, the chicken is fried at a slightly lower temperature to cook it through. Then, it’s fried again at a higher temperature, which creates that signature shatteringly crisp coating. This double-fry method is what truly makes this dish incredible and a favorite for Korean Fried Chicken lovers. If you’re interested in other crispy dishes, consider our Crispy Roasted Cauliflower.

Can I make Korean Fried Chicken less spicy?

Absolutely! The spiciness of Korean Fried Chicken comes primarily from the gochujang in the sauce. You can reduce the amount of gochujang or substitute it with a milder chili paste. For an even milder version, you can opt for a sweet Korean Fried Chicken glaze using honey and soy sauce, skipping the gochujang altogether. This allows you to customize the flavor to your preference.

Is authentic Korean Fried Chicken healthier than American fried chicken?

While both are fried, authentic Korean Fried Chicken often uses a lighter batter, typically relying on flour and cornstarch, and the double-frying technique can sometimes result in less oil absorption compared to heavier batters. However, the delicious glazes can add significant sugar and sodium. Portion control is still key for this amazing Korean Fried Chicken dish.

Where can I find ingredients for Korean Fried Chicken?

Most ingredients for this incredible Korean Fried Chicken recipe can be found at your local grocery store. Things like soy sauce, honey, and flour are standard. For gochujang (Korean red chili paste) and rice vinegar, you might need to visit an Asian grocery store or the international aisle of a larger supermarket. These specialty items are essential for achieving that authentic Korean Fried Chicken taste. For a similar flavor profile in a different dish, check out our Korean BBQ Meatballs.

Variations of Korean Fried Chicken You Can Try

While this incredible Korean Fried Chicken recipe is amazing as is, don’t be afraid to get creative! Exploring different variations can lead to new favorite flavors and cooking methods. Whether you’re looking for a healthier option or just want to switch things up, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

Air Fryer Korean Fried Chicken: For a lighter take, try making this in your air fryer. Toss the coated chicken with a little oil and air fry until golden and crispy. You’ll still get a fantastic crunch, making it an easier way to enjoy amazing Korean Fried Chicken without all the oil.
Spicy Korean Fried Chicken with Gochugaru: Want an extra kick? Add some gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to the dry coating or the sauce for an intensely spicy Korean Fried Chicken experience. Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance!
Sweet and Savory Korean Fried Chicken: If you prefer less heat, focus on the sweet and savory aspects. Increase the honey in the sauce and consider adding a touch of brown sugar for an even richer, sweeter glaze that Korean Fried Chicken lovers adore.
Garlic Soy Korean Fried Chicken: Skip the gochujang for a different flavor profile. A sauce made with plenty of garlic, soy sauce, honey, and a hint of ginger creates a deeply savory and delicious variation that’s incredibly addictive.