Korean fried chicken is a culinary delight that’s both crispy and sticky, offering an irresistible flavor experience. Imagine biting into a sandwich with crackly, crispy chicken, brushed with a thin layer of spicy and sweet glaze. The sandwich is complete with kimchi slaw that adds a crunchy contrast, perfectly balancing the salty and sweet notes. This fusion of flavors takes inspiration from South Korea’s rich history with fried chicken, which became popular in the 1970s and 1980s.
When making this sandwich, the chicken is carefully coated and fried to achieve a crust that stays crispy even under the sticky glaze. The sauce is a key element, brushed on to ensure every bite is bursting with spicy goodness.
Ingredients for Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Chicken thighs (skinless, boneless)
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Light brown sugar
- Dark brown sugar
- Gochujang (Korean hot pepper paste)
- Unseasoned rice vinegar
- Soy sauce
- Finely chopped dill
- Mayonnaise
- All-purpose flour
- Potato starch
- Cornstarch
- Vodka
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Potato buns (split, lightly toasted)
- Shredded iceberg lettuce
- Bread-and-butter pickles
- Sesame seeds
Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich Recipe
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of gochujang, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of unseasoned rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of light brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of dark brown sugar.
- Add skinless, boneless chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Seasoned Flour:
- In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of potato starch, 1/2 cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of Diamond Crystal or Morton kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper.
- In a separate bowl, beat 1 large egg with 1/4 cup of vodka and 1/4 cup of cold water to make the batter.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Dredge the marinated chicken thighs in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the coated chicken into the egg mixture, then coat it again in the seasoned flour mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the coated chicken thighs in batches until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Mix 1/2 cup of mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon of finely chopped dill.
- Spread the dill mayonnaise on both sides of the potato buns that have been split and lightly toasted.
- Place a piece of fried chicken on the bottom bun, top with shredded iceberg lettuce and bread-and-butter pickles.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor, then top with the other half of the bun.
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich!
Key Tips for Korean Fried Chicken Sandwich
- Marinate Longer: For more flavor, marinate chicken for several hours.
- Double Coat: Double dip in flour and egg for extra crispiness.
- Oil Temperature: Keep oil at 350°F (175°C) for perfect frying.
- Use Vodka: Add vodka to batter for a lighter, crispier crust.
- Rest on Rack: Let fried chicken rest on a wire rack to stay crispy.
- Toast Buns: Lightly toast buns to prevent sogginess.
- Pickle Choice: Use bread-and-butter pickles for a sweet-tangy balance.
- Adjust Spice: Modify gochujang for desired heat level.
For More Recipes
What to serve with Korean fried chicken sandwiches?
Crisp, refreshing sides like pickled cucumber salad, apple-cabbage slaw, and charred corn on the cob are ideal for balancing the rich flavors of fried chicken. For a spicy kick, try cucumber kimchi; its crunch and heat make it a perfect match for Korean fried chicken sandwiches.
What makes Korean fried chicken different?
Korean fried chicken is distinct due to its double-frying technique, which creates an exceptionally crispy and light exterior while keeping the meat juicy. It is often coated in a thin batter and tossed in sauces that range from sweet and sticky to spicy and tangy, typically incorporating flavors like gochujang (Korean chili paste) and garlic.
Is Korean fried chicken healthy?
Korean fried chicken is not particularly healthy due to its high fat and calorie content from deep-frying and sugary sauces. However, it can be enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat.
