The combination of crispy fried chicken and bold Korean flavors creates an irresistible dish that’s sure to be a hit. The gochujang-based sauce adds the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, making each bite a flavor explosion.
Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or serving it at a party, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Pair it with steamed rice, pickled radishes, or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Its vibrant color and tantalizing aroma will make it the centerpiece of your table!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings or drumettes
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Oil for frying
For the sauce:
- 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger, grated
Directions:
- In a large bowl, marinate the chicken with buttermilk for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off, and coat each piece in the flour mixture. Set aside on a wire rack.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- To make the sauce, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 4
Origins of Korean Hot Chicken
Korean Hot Chicken, also known as Yangnyeom Chicken, originated in South Korea and has become a globally beloved dish. It features a crispy, double-fried chicken coating and is tossed in a spicy, sweet, and tangy gochujang-based sauce. The word “yangnyeom” translates to “seasoned” or “marinated,” highlighting the bold flavors infused into the dish. This style of fried chicken became popular in South Korea during the late 20th century as a fusion of American-style fried chicken and traditional Korean flavors.
Cultural Significance
Korean Hot Chicken is often enjoyed as a shared meal, served with beer (a pairing famously known as “chimaek,” short for chicken and maekju, the Korean word for beer). It is also a popular late-night comfort food and a staple dish for celebrations, gatherings, and parties in Korea.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
- Gochujang: This fermented Korean red chili paste is the star of the sauce. It brings a deep, spicy, and umami-rich flavor that’s balanced by its slightly sweet undertones.
- Rice Vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the heat and sweetness of the sauce.
- Honey and Brown Sugar: Create a sticky glaze and balance the spice with sweetness.
- Garlic and Ginger: These aromatics enhance the overall flavor profile, adding depth and warmth.
Cooking Tips
- Double Frying Technique: To achieve the perfect crunch, fry the chicken twice. The first fry cooks the chicken through, and the second fry makes the coating extra crispy.
- Marination: Soaking the chicken in buttermilk tenderizes the meat and helps the flour coating adhere better for a crispier texture.
- Sauce Consistency: Simmer the sauce just until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. This ensures it clings perfectly to the chicken.
- Customizing Spice Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang or add cayenne pepper for extra heat. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the gochujang and increase the honey.
Serving Suggestions
Korean Hot Chicken pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed Rice: To balance the bold flavors of the chicken.
- Pickled Radishes: A classic accompaniment that cuts through the richness of the sauce.
- Coleslaw or Salad: For a refreshing crunch and added balance.
- Beer or Soju: For a traditional Korean dining experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for family meals, game-day snacks, or party appetizers.
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its crispy texture and bold flavor make it a favorite among kids and adults alike.
What Makes Korean Hot Chicken Unique?
Korean Hot Chicken stands out for its crispy, double-fried coating and the vibrant, flavorful sauce that’s sticky, spicy, and slightly sweet. Unlike traditional fried chicken, this dish uses gochujang (Korean red chili paste) as its flavor base, offering a unique combination of heat, umami, and sweetness. Its balance of bold flavors and textures makes it an irresistible dish that’s loved worldwide.
Nutritional Benefits
While Korean Hot Chicken is often considered indulgent, it also incorporates ingredients with surprising nutritional value:
- Chicken: A high-protein food that’s lean and packed with essential nutrients like B vitamins and iron.
- Garlic and Ginger: These spices not only add depth to the dish but also have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
- Gochujang: Made from fermented chili paste, gochujang offers gut-friendly probiotics and a depth of flavor without excessive calories.
How to Elevate the Dish
- Add a Twist: Incorporate toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Flavor Enhancers: Include fresh herbs like cilantro or sliced scallions for a fresh contrast to the spicy chicken.
- Dip Options: Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for a fusion twist, or pair with traditional Korean ssamjang (spicy dipping sauce).
History Behind the Double-Frying Technique
The double-frying method, a hallmark of Korean fried chicken, was adopted to create a crispy exterior that stays crunchy even after being coated in sauce. This method originated from South Korea’s adaptation of American fried chicken in the mid-20th century, evolving into the beloved dish we know today. The technique ensures the chicken is light, airy, and perfectly crisp, even hours after cooking.
Ideas for Pairing and Presentation
- Pair It: Serve alongside kimchi fried rice or a fresh vegetable platter for a complete Korean-inspired meal.
- Presentation: Arrange the chicken on a platter, drizzle extra sauce, and garnish with thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a visually appealing dish.
- Beverage Pairing: Complement the flavors with Korean soju, beer, or a refreshing cucumber mint lemonade.
Tips for Beginners
- Prevent Sogginess: Let the chicken rest on a wire rack after frying to prevent sogginess from trapped steam.
- Temperature Control: Maintain the frying oil at a consistent 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.
- Sauce Application: Toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving to keep the coating crisp.
Fun Fact
Did you know that the combination of Korean fried chicken and beer, known as “chimaek,” has its own dedicated fanbase? In South Korea, entire restaurants specialize in serving this duo, and it’s considered a must-try culinary experience when visiting the country.
Common Variations
- Boneless Option: Use chicken thighs or breast strips for a boneless version that’s great for dipping.
- Honey Garlic Chicken: Replace some of the gochujang with honey and garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Extra Spicy: Add fresh chili slices or chili oil to the sauce for those who love a fiery kick.
Conclusion
Korean Hot Chicken is a flavorful fusion of crispy textures, bold spices, and sweet-savory goodness that has won hearts worldwide. Its unique combination of heat and crunch makes it perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or impressing guests.
With its versatile nature, you can easily customize the spice level and pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal. This iconic dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection, delivering unforgettable flavor in every bite!