Name: Crispy Korean Fried Chicken with Sweet Spicy Gochujang Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1½ lb. chicken tenderloins, cut horizontally into half; 1 cup buttermilk; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground pepper; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ⅓ cup corn starch; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground pepper; Oil, to deep fry; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 3 tablespoons gochujang sauce; 3 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, minced; ½ teaspoon red chili flakes; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, to garnish; 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, to garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 86 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into something crunchy yet juicy, sweet yet spicy, then you absolutely must try this Crispy Korean Fried Chicken with Sweet Spicy Gochujang Glaze Recipe. This dish perfectly balances the irresistible crunch of golden fried chicken with a vibrantly flavored glaze that’s both sticky and bold, making every bite an adventure of texture and taste. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply craving a satisfying meal, this recipe is a delightful way to bring a bit of Korean-inspired magic to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with pale pink raw pieces of chicken soaked in a creamy, white marinade speckled with black pepper. The chicken pieces are scattered evenly in the liquid, partially submerged, showing smooth and slightly shiny textures. Above the bowl, two fresh green onion stalks rest across the top edge. Below the bowl, a soft gray cloth with stitched edges adds a touch of texture, gently folded beneath the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t be intimidated by the list here—each ingredient plays a clear role in building the signature texture and flavor that make this dish unforgettable. From the tenderizing power of buttermilk to the fiery sweetness of gochujang, these simple components combine effortlessly to create a masterpiece.

Chicken tenderloins: The perfect tender cut that stays juicy and crisps up beautifully when fried.
Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a subtle tang, helping to tenderize the chicken before frying.
Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance every other flavor in the dish.
All-purpose flour: The primary dry coating base to achieve that irresistible crunch.
Corn starch: Lightens the coating so the crust remains super crispy and not dense.
Baking powder: Adds extra lift and crunch to the batter for a delightful texture.
Paprika: Provides a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color to the crust.
Garlic powder: Infuses each bite with a gentle garlic aroma without overpowering.
Oil for deep frying: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for perfect frying results.
Soy sauce: Lends umami-rich depth to the glaze, balancing sweetness and heat.
Gochujang sauce: The star ingredient—a spicy Korean chili paste that’s sweet, tangy, and full of character.
Brown sugar and honey: These add sticky sweetness that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken.
Sesame oil: Provides a nutty aroma and taste that elevates the glaze.
Minced garlic and ginger: Fresh aromatics that brighten the sauce with zingy notes.
Red chili flakes: Adds an adjustable kick of heat to the glaze.
Sesame seeds and green onions: Classic Korean garnishes that add crunch, freshness, and visual appeal.

How to Make Crispy Korean Fried Chicken with Sweet Spicy Gochujang Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Marinade Magic

Start by marinating your chicken tenderloins in buttermilk combined with salt and pepper. This step is crucial because it tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with subtle seasoning, ensuring each piece remains juicy on the inside after frying. Aim for at least one hour to get the best results, but if you can set it up overnight, even better!

Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Coating

Next, combine your all-purpose flour, corn starch, baking powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. This combination is the secret behind that ultra-crunchy crust. The corn starch and baking powder create the lightness and crisp texture, while the spices add flavor and color that will make your chicken visually stunning and delicious.

Step 3: Dredge and Deep Fry

Take each marinated chicken strip and coat it thoroughly in the flour mixture. Then, carefully deep fry the pieces in batches until they achieve a golden-brown hue and satisfyingly crispy crunch. Drain excess oil on a kitchen towel, keeping the chicken warm and ready for the glaze. This step is where the magic of texture happens, so make sure your oil is hot enough—around 350°F (177°C)—to get that perfect crust without greasiness.

Step 4: Crafting the Sweet Spicy Gochujang Glaze

In a large skillet, combine soy sauce, gochujang sauce, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red chili flakes. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it blend and thicken for about five minutes. This glaze is the heart and soul of your Crispy Korean Fried Chicken with Sweet Spicy Gochujang Glaze Recipe, offering a brilliant balance of sticky sweetness, spice, and umami complexity.

Step 5: Toss and Garnish

Finally, toss the crispy fried chicken in your luscious gochujang glaze until evenly coated and glistening. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for that undeniable Korean street-food finish. This dish is now ready to wow your guests or delight your fam with its bold flavors and irresistible textures.

How to Serve Crispy Korean Fried Chicken with Sweet Spicy Gochujang Glaze Recipe

A metal pan holds about fifteen pieces of crispy fried chicken tenders with a golden brown crust, some pieces slightly darker with a crunchy texture. The chicken rests in a shallow layer of dark reddish oil at the bottom of the pan, which adds shine to the edges of the chicken. The pan sits on a dark grey cloth on a white marbled surface, with a single green onion partially visible at the top left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes. Toasted sesame seeds give a delightful crunch and nutty aroma, while bright green onions offer freshness and a pop of color. Together, they elevate the dish’s presentation and flavor, inviting you to dig in with your eyes before your taste buds.

Side Dishes

This Korean fried chicken shines when paired with simple sides like steamed white rice or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, serve alongside kimchi or pickled radishes to cut through the spice with tangy acidity. These sides complement the Crispy Korean Fried Chicken with Sweet Spicy Gochujang Glaze Recipe’s flavors without overpowering them.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the chicken bites on a platter with small bowls of extra glaze and spicy mayo for dipping. Wrapping pieces in lettuce leaves with thinly sliced veggies like carrots and daikon creates delicious Korean-style chicken wraps. However you choose to plate it, presentation can make the experience even more memorable and shareable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store your crispy Korean fried chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within two days to keep the flavors vibrant and the chicken juicy. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain crispness.

Freezing

You can freeze the fried chicken pieces uncooked after dredging or cooked and cooled. For best texture, freeze them separately from the sauce in airtight freezer-safe bags or containers. They’ll keep for up to one month, making this recipe a convenient option for meal prep or spontaneous cravings.

Reheating

To bring back that incredible crispiness, reheat leftover chicken in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10 minutes rather than microwaving. If reheating frozen chicken, allow it to thaw first, then crisp it up in the oven or air fryer. Add fresh glaze after warming to keep that perfect balance of sticky heat and crunch.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work beautifully in this recipe and offer a bit more fat content, which can enhance juiciness. Just adjust the frying time accordingly to ensure they cook through.

Is gochujang sauce very spicy?

Gochujang has a balanced heat that’s more complex than just spicy—think smoky, sweet, and savory notes. Adjust the red chili flakes in the glaze to increase or tame the spiciness to your preference.

Can I bake the chicken instead of deep frying?

You can bake the coated chicken on a wire rack at 425°F (220°C) for a healthier alternative, but the texture will be less crispy than deep-fried. For best results, finish with a quick pan-fry or use an air fryer.

How long does the marinade need to be?

Marinating for at least one hour is great for tender, flavorful chicken, but up to 8 hours or overnight in the fridge will deepen the flavor and juiciness further.

What can I serve with this crispy Korean fried chicken?

Common pairings include steamed rice, kimchi, pickled vegetables, and fresh green salads. A cold beer or a crisp soda also complements the meal perfectly!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend enough giving this Crispy Korean Fried Chicken with Sweet Spicy Gochujang Glaze Recipe a try. It’s a spectacular combination of textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, it’s a dish that brings warmth, excitement, and pure joy to the dining table. Get your apron on and dig in—you’re in for a delicious ride!