Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken

This Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together crispy, tender chicken with a rich, sticky sauce. Its bold flavors make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a gathering with friends. The use of Gochujang gives this dish its unique spicy-sweet profile, making it a standout choice for those who love Korean cuisine.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken:
• For the Sauce:
• For Garnish
• How to Make Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Heat the Oil
• Step 3: Coat the Chicken
• Step 4: Fry the Chicken
• Step 5: Make the Sauce
• Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken
• With Kimchi
• On a Bed of Rice
• In Tacos
• As Appetizers
• With Fresh Salad
• How to Perfect Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken
• Reheating Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken so special?
• Can I use other types of meat?
• How can I adjust the spice level?
• What sides pair well with Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: This recipe guarantees a crunchy exterior due to the cornstarch coating.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of Gochujang, honey, and sesame oil creates a mouthwatering sauce that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Quick Preparation: With only 45 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this dish on busy weeknights.
• Versatile Pairing: Serve it with kimchi or a garden salad for a balanced meal that suits various tastes.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and glossy sauce make this dish visually appealing for any dining setting.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results for your Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken, having the right tools is essential. Here are some items you’ll need to prepare this recipe effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Tongs
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: A good frying pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
• Tongs: Using tongs makes it easy to turn the chicken pieces in hot oil safely without burning yourself.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to efficiently marinate chicken and mix your sauce without mixing flavors.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1/2 pound chicken breast, cut into small pieces
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 10 tablespoons cornstarch or potato starch
• 2 eggs
• Oil for frying

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, mix the chicken with ginger, salt, pepper, and rice vinegar. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes to enhance flavor.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for frying.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Dip each chicken piece into the egg to coat thoroughly. Dredge the egg-coated chicken in cornstarch or potato starch, shaking off excess flour gently.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add chicken pieces to the hot oil using tongs. Fry in batches so as not to overcrowd the pan. Turn every 2 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked (about 8-10 minutes). Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In another pan over low heat, combine Gochujang, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.

Step 6: Combine Chicken with Sauce

Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss gently until evenly coated. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and stir one final time before serving.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot alongside a fresh garden salad or kimchi on the side for an authentic Korean experience. Enjoy your delicious Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken!

How to Serve Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken

Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Kimchi

• Spicy Kick – The tangy and fermented flavors of kimchi complement the sweet and spicy chicken perfectly, adding an extra layer of taste.

On a Bed of Rice

• Hearty Meal – Serve the fried chicken over steamed rice to soak up the sauce, creating a satisfying and filling dish.

In Tacos

• Fusion Delight – For a fun twist, use the chicken as a filling for tacos. Top with fresh cilantro and lime for added freshness.

As Appetizers

• Party Pleaser – Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and serve with toothpicks. It’s perfect for gatherings or game day snacks.

With Fresh Salad

• Light & Refreshing – Pair the chicken with a light garden salad to balance its richness. A citrus vinaigrette works well here.

How to Perfect Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken

To achieve the perfect texture and flavor in your Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken, follow these handy tips.

• Use Cornstarch – Dredging the chicken in cornstarch creates an incredibly crispy coating that holds onto the sauce beautifully.
• Marinate Properly – Allowing the chicken to marinate with ginger, salt, and vinegar enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Maintain Oil Temperature – Ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. This helps achieve that golden brown crust while keeping the inside juicy.
• Fry in Batches – Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking. Frying in small batches allows for better oil temperature control.
• Toss Immediately – Coat the fried chicken in sauce right after frying for maximum flavor absorption.

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Best Side Dishes for Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken

Enjoying side dishes with your Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Rice – A classic companion that absorbs all the delicious sauce, making every bite delightful.
2. Korean Potato Salad – Creamy and slightly sweet, this salad balances out the heat from the chicken.
3. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing side that adds crunch and coolness, perfect to counteract spice.
4. Pickled Radish – These crunchy pickles offer a tangy contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
5. Miso Soup – A warm bowl of miso soup complements the meal with its umami flavors.
6. Sesame Noodles – Cold sesame noodles provide a nutty flavor that pairs well with spicy dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will ensure your Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken turns out perfectly. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade – Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor. Don’t skip this step; allow at least 10–15 minutes for the best results.
• Not drying the chicken – If you don’t pat the chicken dry, it won’t fry properly. Ensure all pieces are moisture-free before cooking.
• Overcrowding the pan – Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy chicken. Fry in small batches for optimal crispiness.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency – A thick sauce clings better to the chicken. Stir until your sauce is smooth and slightly thickened before adding the chicken.
• Neglecting to adjust seasoning – Taste your sauce! Every ingredient may vary, so adjust salt or sweetness according to your preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness.

Freezing Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.

Reheating Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10–15 minutes until hot and crispy.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, but note that this may make it less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and cook until heated through, about 5–7 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken so special?

This dish combines crispy fried chicken with a unique sweet and spicy Gochujang sauce, offering a bold flavor experience that’s hard to resist.

Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! While this recipe features chicken breast, you can substitute with thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To make it less spicy, reduce the amount of Gochujang or mix it with ketchup. For more heat, add extra Gochujang or include chili flakes.

What sides pair well with Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken?

Serve it alongside kimchi, rice, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal that complements its bold flavors.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just fry it when ready to serve for maximum freshness.

Final Thoughts

Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken is not just delicious—it’s versatile too! You can customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home kitchen.

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