Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken

This Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken is a delightful dish that combines crispy, tender chicken with a rich, sticky sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests, this recipe offers a balance of sweet and spicy flavors that will leave everyone craving more. The standout quality of this dish is its versatility; whether served as a main course or an appetizer, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.

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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 and Sauce
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken
• Pair with Kimchi
• Fresh Garden Salad
• Steamed Rice
• Pickled Vegetables
• Lettuce Wraps
• Beer or Soju
• 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
• Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
• How spicy is this Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken?
• What sides go well with this dish?
• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
• How do I store leftover Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Bold Flavors: The combination of Gochujang, honey, and brown sugar creates a uniquely delicious sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a party, this dish fits right in.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Gochujang according to your taste.
• Crispy Texture: The cornstarch coating ensures that each piece of chicken is perfectly crispy.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Whisk
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Frying pan: Essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture when frying the chicken.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce.
• Tongs: Help safely turn the chicken during frying without burning your hands.
• Whisk: Ideal for beating eggs to coat the chicken evenly.

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 together the chicken with minced ginger, salt, black pepper, and rice vinegar. Let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

While marinating, heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat until it reaches the right temperature for frying.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. Dip each marinated chicken piece into the egg mixture to coat them completely. Then dredge each piece in cornstarch or potato starch, shaking off any excess coating.

Step 4: Fry the Chicken

Carefully add coated chicken pieces to the hot oil using tongs. Fry in batches while turning every 2 minutes until they are golden brown and fully cooked. Drain them on a paper towel-lined plate afterward.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

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

Step 6: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Once your chicken is fried to perfection, add it to the sauce mixture. Toss everything together until all pieces are evenly coated with sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and give it one final stir before serving hot with either a fresh garden salad or kimchi on the side. Enjoy your delicious Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken!

How to Serve Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken

Serving Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a cozy family meal or a gathering with friends. Here are some delicious serving ideas that will complement this flavorful dish.

Pair with Kimchi

• Kimchi – This traditional Korean side dish, made from fermented vegetables, offers a tangy crunch that balances the sweetness of the chicken.

Fresh Garden Salad

• Garden Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette helps to refresh the palate while enjoying the spicy chicken.

Steamed Rice

• Steamed Rice – Plain white or jasmine rice absorbs the rich sauce and provides a comforting base for the dish.

Pickled Vegetables

• Pickled Vegetables – A side of pickled radish or cucumber adds an extra layer of flavor and acidity that cuts through the richness of fried chicken.

Lettuce Wraps

• Lettuce Wraps – Wrap pieces of chicken in crisp lettuce leaves topped with fresh herbs for a refreshing bite-sized option.

Beer or Soju

• Beverages – Pair your meal with light beer or soju. Both drinks refresh the palate and enhance the overall experience.

How to Perfect Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken

Achieving the perfect Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh chicken and high-quality Gochujang make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Marinate Properly – Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 10–15 minutes enhances its taste and tenderness.
• Heat the Oil Adequately – Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; this will help achieve that crispy texture without making it greasy.
• Fry in Batches – Avoid overcrowding the pan; frying in batches ensures even cooking and prevents temperature drops in the oil.
• Coat Evenly – Ensure each piece of chicken is well-coated in cornstarch or potato starch for maximum crispiness.
• Toss in Sauce Immediately – Combine fried chicken with sauce right after frying for best flavor absorption.

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Best Side Dishes for Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken

Complementing your Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken with great side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of fried chicken.
2. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad with sesame dressing offers a cool contrast to the spicy flavors.
3. Fried Rice – Flavored fried rice packed with vegetables or eggs makes for a hearty addition next to your chicken.
4. Miso Soup – A warm miso soup provides umami depth while enhancing the overall dining experience.
5. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries deliver sweetness that pairs nicely with spicy chicken.
6. Japchae (Korean Glass Noodles) – These stir-fried glass noodles with vegetables provide a delightful chewy texture alongside your meal.
7. Radish Kimchi (Kkakdugi) – The crunchy radish cubes offer another layer of flavor that complements your main dish beautifully.
8. Egg Fried Rice Balls – These bite-sized treats add fun to your meal while being easy to eat alongside fried chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Always let the chicken soak in spices for at least 10–15 minutes.
• Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many pieces at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to ensure each piece gets crispy.
• Using the wrong oil: Some oils have low smoke points. Use an oil like vegetable or peanut oil that can handle high heat for frying.
• Not adjusting sauce thickness: If your sauce is too thick, it won’t coat the chicken well. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to achieve the right consistency.
• Ignoring cooking time: Under-frying the chicken can make it chewy and unsafe. Ensure it’s cooked until golden brown and fully done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken

• Place cooled chicken pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Frozen chicken can be kept for up to 2 months.

Reheating Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and warm for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes, you can experiment with other meats such as pork or tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How spicy is this Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken?

The level of spiciness depends on how much Gochujang you use. Start with less if you prefer milder flavors.

What sides go well with this dish?

This dish pairs well with kimchi, steamed rice, or a fresh garden salad for balance.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce separately, then combine them just before serving.

How do I store leftover Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to two months.

Final Thoughts

Korean Spicy and Sweet Fried Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. You can easily customize it by adding different spices or adjusting sweetness levels. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress your family and friends while offering a taste of authentic Korean cuisine.

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