Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom-tongdak) Recipe with Sweet, Sour & Spicy Sauce
There’s something magical about Korean Fried Chicken – its crispy exterior, juicy interior, and that addictive spicy sauce that keeps you reaching for more.
I first fell in love with this dish during a trip to Seoul, where I stumbled upon a tiny street food stall. The aroma of sizzling chicken and the vibrant red sauce was irresistible.
Since then, I’ve been on a mission to recreate that perfect balance of flavors at home.
This recipe is my tribute to that unforgettable experience, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.
Let’s make some Korean Fried Chicken with Spicy Sauce that’s sure to impress!
Tools Table
| Tool | Purpose | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | For marinating and coating the chicken | Any kitchenware store |
| Whisk | To mix the batter evenly | Supermarket or online |
| Deep Fryer or Pan | For frying the chicken | Kitchen supply stores |
| Tongs | To handle the chicken safely | Any kitchenware store |
| Saucepan | To prepare the spicy sauce | Supermarket or online |
Prep Time
Total Time: 45 minutes (including marinating and frying)
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 500g chicken (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp chili powder
- 1/8 tsp garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
For the Batter:
- 100g all-purpose flour
- 50g corn starch
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg
- 120ml water
For the Spicy Sauce:
- 100g chili sauce
- 35g ketchup
- 7g soy sauce
- 15g sugar
- 10g vegetable oil
- 7g chopped garlic
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, chili powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for 15 minutes. - Prepare the Batter:
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, corn starch, baking powder, garlic powder, chili powder, and black pepper. Add the egg and water, and mix until you get a smooth batter. - Coat the Chicken:
Dip each marinated chicken piece into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. - Fry the Chicken:
Heat oil in a deep fryer or pan to medium heat. Fry the chicken for 5 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and let it rest for 15 minutes. - Make the Spicy Sauce:
In a saucepan, heat vegetable oil over high heat. Add chopped garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Add chili sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir well and cook for 3 minutes until the sauce thickens. - Coat the Chicken with Sauce:
Toss the fried chicken in the spicy sauce until evenly coated. - Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken and serve hot.
Food Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Pro Tips
- For extra crispiness, double-fry the chicken: Fry once, let it rest, then fry again for 2-3 minutes.
- Adjust the spiciness of the sauce by adding more or less chili sauce.
- Serve with pickled radishes or a cold beer for an authentic Korean experience.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 10g |
FAQs
- Can I use chicken wings instead of bite-sized pieces?
Absolutely! Chicken wings work great for this recipe. Just adjust the frying time as needed. - What can I substitute for chili sauce?
You can use sriracha or gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a different flavor profile. - Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. - How do I make the sauce less spicy?
Reduce the amount of chili sauce and add more ketchup or honey for sweetness. - Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before using.
Final Thoughts
Korean Fried Chicken with Spicy Sauce is more than just a dish – it’s an experience.
The combination of crispy chicken and bold, spicy flavors is truly irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making it your own. So, grab your apron, turn up the heat, and let’s make some magic in the kitchen!
Happy cooking! 🍗✨