Introduction to Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up something delicious that everyone will love. That’s where my Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites come in! These little nuggets of joy are not only crispy and spicy but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack after a long day or a dish to impress your loved ones at your next gathering, this recipe is a winner. Trust me, once you try these bites, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites
These Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites are a game-changer for busy weeknights. They come together in just 35 minutes, making them perfect for those hectic evenings when time is tight. The combination of crispy texture and bold flavors will have your family asking for seconds. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or a main dish, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied!
Ingredients for Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these mouthwatering Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breast: Tender and juicy, cut into bite-sized pieces for easy frying.
- All-purpose flour: This forms the crispy coating that gives the chicken its crunch.
- Cornstarch: Helps achieve an extra crispy texture when frying.
- Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Onion powder: Enhances the overall taste with a hint of sweetness.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out the flavors in the chicken and coating.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the seasoning mix.
- Buttermilk: This tenderizes the chicken and helps the coating stick.
- Gochujang: A Korean chili paste that brings the heat and a touch of sweetness.
- Honey: Balances the spice with its natural sweetness, creating a delicious glaze.
- Soy sauce: Adds umami and depth to the sauce.
- Sesame oil: Infuses a nutty flavor that’s characteristic of Korean cuisine.
- Vegetable oil: For frying, choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point.
Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less gochujang, depending on your family’s taste preferences. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find them available for printing! 
How to Make Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Coating
To start, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This mixture is the secret to that crispy coating we all love. The cornstarch is key here, as it helps create an extra crunch. I always make sure to taste a little of the dry mix to ensure the seasoning is just right. Once mixed, set it aside while you prepare the chicken. Trust me, this coating will elevate your Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites!
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Now, it’s time to coat the chicken! First, dip each piece of chicken breast into the buttermilk, ensuring it’s fully submerged. This step is crucial as it tenderizes the meat and helps the coating stick. After that, take the buttermilk-coated chicken and roll it in the flour mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly coated. I like to give it a gentle shake to remove any excess flour. This ensures a perfect crunch when frying. Repeat this process until all the chicken pieces are coated and ready for frying!
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Next, let’s heat the oil! In a deep pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about an inch. Heat it over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of the flour mixture into it; if it sizzles, you’re good to go! Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy chicken. Patience is key here; the right oil temperature will give you that golden, crispy finish!
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Once the oil is hot, gently place the coated chicken pieces into the pan. Fry them in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook each batch for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. I always use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This step keeps them crispy and delicious!
Step 5: Make the Sauce
While the chicken is frying, let’s whip up the sauce! In a separate bowl, combine the gochujang, honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Whisk them together until smooth and well blended. The gochujang gives the sauce its signature heat, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness. I love how these flavors come together to create a sticky, flavorful glaze. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. If you like it spicier, add more gochujang!
Step 6: Toss and Serve
Finally, it’s time to toss and serve! Once all the chicken is fried and crispy, place it in a large bowl. Pour the sauce over the chicken and toss gently until every piece is well coated. The aroma will be irresistible! Serve your Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites hot, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if you like. They’re perfect for sharing, but I won’t judge if you keep them all to yourself!
Tips for Success
- Double fry the chicken for an extra crispy texture.
- Let the coated chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying to help the coating adhere.
- Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature.
- Experiment with different dipping sauces for variety.
- Serve with pickled radish for a traditional Korean touch.
Equipment Needed
- Deep pan or Dutch oven: A heavy-bottomed pot works well if you don’t have a deep pan.
- Slotted spoon: Use a regular spoon if you don’t have one; just be careful when removing the chicken.
- Mixing bowls: Any size will do, just ensure they’re large enough for mixing.
- Meat thermometer: A kitchen thermometer is a great alternative for checking chicken doneness.
- Paper towels: Use a clean kitchen towel if you’re out of paper towels for draining.
Variations of Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites
- Spicy Garlic Version: Add minced garlic to the sauce for an extra punch of flavor.
- Honey Soy Glaze: Replace gochujang with a mix of honey and soy sauce for a milder, sweet option.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Substitute chicken with cauliflower florets for a delicious plant-based version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for those with dietary restrictions.
- Extra Crunchy: For an even crunchier bite, try adding crushed cornflakes to the coating mixture.
Serving Suggestions for Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites
- Pair with a side of creamy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
- Serve with steamed rice or fluffy jasmine rice to balance the spice.
- Offer a cold beer or a fruity soju cocktail for a delightful drink pairing.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs about Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites
Can I make Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and coat it in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry. This way, you can enjoy fresh, crispy bites without the last-minute rush!
What can I serve with Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites?
These bites pair wonderfully with pickled radish, steamed rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a side of dipping sauces like ranch or extra gochujang for added flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great too! They’re juicier and add a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! The spice level can be adjusted by using less gochujang, making it milder for little ones. Plus, the crispy texture is always a hit with kids!
Final Thoughts
Making Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites is more than just cooking; it’s about creating joyful moments in the kitchen. The aroma of frying chicken fills the air, bringing everyone together, eager to taste the deliciousness. Each bite is a burst of flavor, combining spice and sweetness that dances on your palate. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these bites are sure to impress. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do. So roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and dive into this delightful culinary adventure!
Print
Spicy Korean Fried Chicken Bites for Unforgettable Flavor!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Deliciously crispy and spicy, these Korean fried chicken bites are perfect for a flavorful snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip chicken pieces in buttermilk, then coat with the flour mixture.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat.
- Fry the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix gochujang, honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create the sauce.
- Once the chicken is cooked, toss it in the sauce until well coated.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less gochujang.
- For extra crunch, double fry the chicken.
- Serve with pickled radish for a traditional touch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 pieces
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
