Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
Sauce
Instructions
Step 1
Start by thoroughly washing the 1 kilogram of chicken thighs. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they are moisture-free, which helps achieve that golden crispy exterior. Next, season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, rubbing the spices in well for an even flavor.
Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step enhances the taste and tenderizes the meat, making it more delicious.
Step 2
In a large bowl, combine 230 grams of all-purpose flour with some additional flour for coating. Dredge each piece of marinated chicken in the flour mixture, making sure to coat all sides thoroughly. This flour coating is essential for achieving that crispy finish when fried.
Step 3
Pour 300 milliliters of milk into a bowl. Dip each floured chicken piece into the milk, then return them to the flour mixture for a second coating. This two-step process ensures a thicker crust that crisps up beautifully when cooked.
Step 4
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot. Carefully place the coated chicken pieces in the oil, frying them until golden brown and crispy on all sides. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on the size of the pieces.
Step 5
While the chicken is cooking, mix together the soy sauce, ketchup, barbecue sauce, sugar, gochujang, minced garlic, and water in a small saucepan. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is well combined. Adjust the amount of gochujang to control the spiciness to your preference.
Step 6
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oil and drain it on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve the crispy chicken hot, drizzled with the prepared sauce, or serve it on the side for dipping. Enjoy your deliciously crispy Korean chicken as a delightful appetizer or snack!
Servings
When it comes to serving your **Crispy Korean Chicken**, the world is your oyster! For a delightful touch, try placing the chicken on a bed of steamed rice 🥡, drizzling it generously with the homemade sauce. You're in for a treat!
Add a side of pickled veggies 🥕 and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for garnish to elevate your dish – it’s all about those little details! You can also serve it with fresh greens or a light salad for a refreshing balance.
Don’t forget to prepare extra sauce for dipping – it’s so good you’ll want to savor every last drop! 🍶
Equipment
You'll need a few mixing bowls of different sizes to prepare your batter and marinade. Make sure to choose bowls that are easy to clean!
A pan with high sides is ideal for frying the chicken to get that perfect golden crust. If you have a deep fryer, use it for consistent frying without the fuss!
To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, a meat thermometer is a must-have tool. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
A good whisk will help create a light and airy batter. Opt for a sturdy one that can handle thick mixtures.
Variations
If you’re looking to explore some **gluten-free** options, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a blend of rice flour and cornstarch. It gives you the same lovely crunch without the gluten! 🌾
For those who are vegan, try using tofu or seitan as a substitute for chicken. Marinate them as you would the chicken for an equally mouthwatering result. Remember, the sauce is naturally vegan, so feel free to drizzle it over your chosen protein! 🌱
Faq
- What if I don’t have chicken thighs?
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts, but thighs, with their higher fat content, offer more flavor and moisture.
- How can I make the chicken extra crispy?
Make sure your batter is cold and your oil is hot enough before frying. This will help create that irresistibly crunchy texture!
- Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes! You can bake the chicken on a lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) until it’s golden and cooked through. Just be aware it may not be as crispy as the fried version.
- How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer for the best results.
- Can I freeze the batter or the chicken?
Yes, the chicken can be marinated and frozen before cooking. The batter can also be frozen, but it's best when made fresh!
- What sides pair well with this dish?
Consider serving it with Korean-style fried rice, kimchi, or a light cucumber salad for a delightful meal!