Sweet & Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving something crispy, saucy, and sensational, you’re absolutely going to fall in love with Sweet & Spicy Korean Fried Chicken. This dish brings together golden, impossibly crunchy chicken wings with a glossy, bold sauce that’s sweet, fiery, and utterly addictive. Every bite is a delicious balance of flavor and texture that makes this recipe a true treat for anyone excited to explore Korean-inspired comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Sweet & Spicy Korean Fried Chicken is that, with just a handful of well-chosen ingredients, you can create outstanding depth of flavor and restaurant-style crunch right at home. Each component has a special role to play in making your chicken unforgettable—don’t forget the garnishes for that final burst of color and flavor!

• Chicken Wings (1 kg): Choose fresh, meaty wings for a juicy, satisfying base.
• Salt and Pepper: A simple seasoning to bring out the natural flavors of the chicken before frying.
• Cornstarch (1 cup): The secret to extra-crispy coating that holds up perfectly under the sauce.
• Oil for Frying: Use a neutral, high-heat oil like vegetable, canola, or peanut for the best fry.
• Soy Sauce (1/4 cup): Delivers savory umami depth to the spicy-sweet sauce.
• Honey (1/4 cup): Adds smooth, floral sweetness that balances the heat beautifully.
• Gochujang (2 tbsp): The iconic Korean chili paste brings just the right amount of kick and fermented complexity.
• Minced Garlic (1 tbsp): For aromatic punch that infuses both sauce and chicken with flavor.
• Grated Ginger (1 tsp): Provides subtle warmth and brightness to the sauce.
• Rice Vinegar (1 tbsp): Lends tanginess to cut through the richness.
• Sesame Oil (1 tbsp): A finishing touch for nutty aroma and authentic Korean taste.
• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle for a pretty finish and gentle crunch.
• Sliced Green Onions: A burst of fresh color and a delicate, oniony bite.

How to Make Sweet & Spicy Korean Fried Chicken

Step 1: Season and Coat the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken wings dry and tossing them with salt and pepper. This simple step locks in flavor and preps the wings for that ultra-crispy texture. Next, coat them evenly in cornstarch, making sure each wing is well-covered so every nook and cranny crisps up perfectly during frying.

Step 2: Fry Until Perfectly Golden

Heat your oil in a deep fryer or a sturdy, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Gently lower the wings into the oil in batches—don’t crowd the pot or you’ll lose that lovely crunch! Cook each batch about 10 minutes until the wings are gorgeously golden and cooked through. Set them aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

In a small saucepan, stir together the soy sauce, honey, gochujang, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Let this mixture bubble gently over medium heat until it thickens just slightly, creating a sensational coating for the chicken. The aroma alone will have you reaching for a spoon to taste!

Step 4: Toss Wings in Sauce

Place the crispy fried chicken wings in a large bowl, pour over the glossy sauce, and toss to coat every piece. This is where the magic happens—the sweet, spicy, sticky sauce clings to the craggy surface of each wing, ensuring every bite is fully loaded with flavor.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish your Sweet & Spicy Korean Fried Chicken with a generous scattering of toasted sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onions. These toppings not only make your dish look beautiful, but also add layers of flavor and texture that tie everything together.

How to Serve Sweet & Spicy Korean Fried Chicken

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a final flourish! Sprinkle your piping hot Sweet & Spicy Korean Fried Chicken with crunchy sesame seeds and a handful of vibrant green onions right before serving. This not only adds that signature Korean flair, but also a delightful layer of freshness with every bite.

Side Dishes

To make it a full meal, serve your wings with steamed white rice, pickled radish, or simple cucumber salad. These light, refreshing sides balance out the rich, bold flavors of the chicken and help cleanse your palate in between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Up your presentation game by piling your Sweet & Spicy Korean Fried Chicken high on a platter, arranging it over a bed of crisp greens, or serving it alongside a decorative bowl of extra sauce for dipping. For parties, skewer bite-sized pieces on toothpicks for the ultimate crowd-pleasing finger food.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have leftovers? Transfer your cooled Sweet & Spicy Korean Fried Chicken to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to line the container with a paper towel to help absorb any extra moisture and keep the wings as crisp as possible.

Freezing

If you want to stock up, freeze the cooked (but unsauced) chicken wings on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to two months. When you’re ready to serve, reheat and toss with fresh sauce for best results.

Reheating

For maximum crunch, reheat leftover wings in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes or until sizzling and hot throughout. Avoid the microwave, which can make the coating soggy—an air fryer works great too! Rewarm the sauce separately and toss just before serving.

FAQs

What’s the best way to make the chicken extra crispy?

Coating your wings thoroughly in cornstarch and frying them in oil at the right temperature is key. Don’t overcrowd the pot, and always let the oil come back up to temperature between batches for optimal results.

Can I use boneless chicken instead of wings?

Absolutely! Boneless thighs or breast pieces work wonderfully as an alternative. Just adjust your frying time—smaller pieces may cook more quickly, so keep an eye out for that beautiful golden crust.

Is there a substitute for gochujang if I can’t find it?

If you’re unable to find gochujang, a mixture of miso paste, chili flakes, and a splash of honey will give you something similar in flavor and complexity. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’s a great stand-in until you can get the real deal!

How spicy is Sweet & Spicy Korean Fried Chicken?

This dish offers a lovely balance of sweetness and heat, but you can easily adjust the spice level. If you prefer things milder, add a bit less gochujang. If you’re a heat-seeker, go ahead and add a little extra!

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes—you can prepare the sauce a day or two in advance and keep it in the fridge. Warm it up gently before tossing it with your chicken for that perfect sticky finish.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve never made Sweet & Spicy Korean Fried Chicken at home before, get ready to be amazed at how such simple steps can yield such wildly craveable results. This is a dish meant for sharing, celebration, or just satisfying your inner fried chicken fanatic—so gather your loved ones and dig in!

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