Korean crispy chicken, often hailed as a masterpiece of fried food, has taken the culinary world by storm. Known for its irresistible crunch and mouthwatering flavors, this dish has become a global favorite. In this article, we’ll delve into the secrets of Korean crispy chicken, explore what makes it so special, and give you a recipe to try at home. Plus, if you’re in Miami, you can enjoy similar flavors at Salty Flame with their own twist on this iconic dish.

The origins of Korean crispy chicken

The history of Korean crunchy chicken begins in the 20th century, when fried chicken was first introduced to the country. Over time, Korean chefs adapted the dish to create something truly unique: crispy, juicy, and often accompanied by a variety of bold sauces. The main difference between traditional fried chicken and its Korean counterpart is how it is prepared. The chicken is often double-fried, which gives it an extra-crispy texture that stays crunchy even after it is covered in sauce.

What started as a local dish has now become a global sensation, with Korean fried chicken restaurants popping up in major cities around the world. From New York to Seoul, the dish’s popularity continues to grow as more people discover its distinctive texture and flavor.

What makes Korean fried chicken so crispy?

The secret to the crispness of Korean fried chicken lies in the method of frying and the batter used to coat the chicken. Unlike typical Western-style fried chicken, Korean fried chicken is coated in a light batter made from flour, cornstarch, or even potato starch. This helps create a tender, crispy exterior without the heaviness of traditional batter.

In addition, the double frying method is key. After the first fry, the chicken is allowed to rest, which helps release excess moisture. It’s then fried a second time at a higher temperature, which locks in the juiciness while creating an ultra-crispy outer layer. This technique ensures that the chicken remains crispy even after being covered in sauce.

Best Korean crispy fried chicken recipe

Now let’s move on to making the best Korean crispy fried chicken at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving the perfect crunch and flavor:

Ingredients:

– 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)

– ½ cup all-purpose flour

– ½ cup cornstarch or potato starch

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1 teaspoon pepper

– Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the sauce

– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons honey

– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

– Sesame seeds (for garnish)

– Scallions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken: Cut the thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt and pepper. Coat chicken evenly with mixture and let rest for 15 minutes.

2. Brown the chicken: Heat the oil in a large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Cook the chicken in small batches for 6-8 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and set aside on a wire rack. When all the pieces are cooked, increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and cook the chicken again for 2-3 minutes to make it extra crispy.

3. Make the sauce: In a saucepan, combine the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and sesame oil. Simmer over low heat for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

4. Coat the chicken: Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until each piece is evenly coated. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions before serving.

With this recipe, you’ll have the best crispy, flavorful Korean fried chicken in your own kitchen. Whether you like it spicy or sweet, the balance of crunchy exterior and juicy chicken makes it a crowd pleaser.

Tips for perfecting your Korean crispy chicken

If you’d like to master the art of making Korean crispy chicken at home, here are some expert tips:

– Use cold water when making the batter. This slows down gluten formation, resulting in a lighter, crispier coating.

– Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying. This will ensure that the chicken fries evenly and doesn’t get soggy.

– Allow the chicken to rest after the first fry. This is important for maximum crispiness when you fry it a second time.

– Toss the chicken in the sauce just before serving to keep the coating crisp.

Popular Korean fried chicken sauces

Korean fried chicken wouldn’t be complete without its famous sauces. There are countless variations, but some of the most popular include

– Gochujang sauce: A sweet, spicy and savory sauce made with Korean red chili paste. This is the most iconic sauce used on Korean fried chicken.

– Soy Garlic Sauce: A milder option that blends soy sauce, garlic, and sugar for a slightly sweet and savory flavor.

– Honey Butter Sauce: A buttery, sweet glaze that contrasts with the savory crunch of the chicken. 

Each sauce adds a different dimension to the crispy chicken, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways.

Enjoy Korean crispy chicken at Salty Flame

If you’re in Miami and craving the delicious flavors of Korean crispy chicken, look no further than Salty Flame. Our Korean Fried Chicken features crispy chicken thighs with a sweet gochujang glaze, topped with scallions, sesame seeds, Fresno chili, and micro cilantro. The perfect balance of crunch and heat makes this a must-try dish.

For those seeking a milder but equally flavorful option, we offer Sweet and Sour Chicken, made with crispy marinated chicken thighs, vibrant bell peppers, pineapple, scallions, red onion and a house-made sweet and sour sauce. These dishes bring the essence of Korean Crispy Chicken to life, creating a fusion of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

If you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, mastering the art of Korean crispy chicken is easier than you think. With the right techniques and ingredients, you can create a dish that rivals even the best restaurants. And for those in Miami, a trip to Salty Flame will satisfy your cravings with their outstanding Korean fried chicken and sweet and sour chicken.