Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)

This crispy Korean Fried Chicken, or Yangnyeom Chicken, is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors and irresistible crunch. Perfect for parties, game days, or even a cozy night in, this dish features golden fried wings enveloped in a sticky-sweet and spicy gochujang sauce. The combination of crunchy batter and savory-sweet sauce makes it stand out as a delightful treat that will satisfy your cravings.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken:
• Chicken Seasoning:
• Dry Batter:
• Wet Batter:
• Yangnyeom Sauce:
• How to Make Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)
• Step 1: Season the Chicken
• Step 2: Make the Yangnyeom Sauce
• Step 3: Prepare the Batters
• Step 4: Coat the Chicken
• Step 5: First Fry
• Step 6: Second Fry
• Step 7: Sauce & Finish
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)
• With Pickled Radish
• Pair with Cabbage Slaw
• Enjoy with Cold Beer
• Add Rice or Noodles
• Create a Sandwich
• Serve as Party Appetizers
• How to Perfect Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)
• Best Side Dishes for Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)
• Reheating Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken) different?
• Can I use other parts of chicken?
• How spicy is Yangnyeom Chicken?
• Can I prepare Yangnyeom sauce ahead of time?
• What should I serve with Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unmatched Crispiness: The double-frying technique ensures each piece of chicken has an ultra-crunchy texture that you won’t forget.
• Flavor Explosion: With the sweet and spicy Yangnyeom sauce, every bite bursts with rich Korean flavors.
• Easy Preparation: Despite its restaurant-quality taste, this recipe is straightforward enough for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetizer, main dish, or snack—perfect for any occasion.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference; you can make it milder or extra spicy!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep pot or fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Wire rack
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep pot or fryer: Essential for frying the chicken evenly and achieving that perfect crispiness.
• Mixing bowls: Helps keep your ingredients organized while preparing seasonings and batters.

Ingredients

This crispy Korean Fried Chicken, or Yangnyeom Chicken, features golden-fried wings with an ultra-crunchy batter and a sticky-sweet, spicy gochujang sauce. Packed with bold Korean flavors, it’s perfect for parties, game days, or when you’re craving a savory-sweet treat with serious crunch.

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs chicken wings and drumettes (about 16 pieces)
• Peanut oil (or canola/vegetable oil), for frying
• 1 tsp sesame seeds, for garnish

Chicken Seasoning:

• 1½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Dry Batter:

• ½ cup potato starch
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp chicken bouillon
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Wet Batter:

• ½ cup potato starch
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ cup cold club soda (or cold water)

Yangnyeom Sauce:

• ¼ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup extra spicy gochujang
• ¼ cup rice syrup
• ¼ cup water
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 3 tbsp sugar
• 2 tsp plum vinegar (or rice vinegar or white vinegar)
• 1 tsp gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
• 1 tbsp neutral oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

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How to Make Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken wings dry. In a bowl, mix the salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne. Rub this seasoning all over the chicken. Dry brine uncovered in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Yangnyeom Sauce

In a saucepan over medium-low heat, sauté the minced garlic in neutral oil until fragrant but not browned. Add the remaining sauce ingredients and let it bubble gently for 2–3 minutes while stirring often. Remove from heat and set aside. This sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated.

Step 3: Prepare the Batters

In one bowl, mix together the dry batter ingredients: potato starch, flour, bouillon, salt, and optional cayenne. In another bowl, combine the wet batter ingredients: potato starch, flour, egg, baking powder, and cold club soda or water.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each piece of chicken into the wet batter, allowing excess to drip off. Then coat it in the dry batter by pressing it on and shaking off any excess flour.

Step 5: First Fry

Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F. Fry the chicken in batches for about 6–7 minutes (or 7–8 minutes for larger pieces), maintaining an oil temperature between 320–335°F. Place the fried chicken on a wire rack to rest after frying.

Step 6: Second Fry

Reheat the oil to 370°F. Fry the chicken a second time for about 1 minute while ensuring that oil stays above 350°F. This step makes the coating extra crispy.

Step 7: Sauce & Finish

While the chicken is still hot, toss it in your prepared Yangnyeom sauce or brush it on evenly. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Step 8: Serve

Serve immediately alongside pickled radish and cabbage slaw paired with a cold beer to fully enjoy this incredible Korean fried chicken experience!

How to Serve Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)

Korean Fried Chicken, or Yangnyeom Chicken, is a delightful dish that can elevate any meal. Its crispy exterior and flavorful sauce make it a versatile addition to any table. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Pickled Radish

• Crisp and Refreshing: Traditional pickled radish adds a crunchy contrast to the spicy chicken, cutting through the richness.

Pair with Cabbage Slaw

• Zesty Crunch: A tangy cabbage slaw complements the chicken’s flavor while adding freshness and texture to each bite.

Enjoy with Cold Beer

• Perfect Drink Match: A cold beer, especially a light lager, pairs wonderfully with Korean fried chicken, balancing its heat and richness.

Add Rice or Noodles

• Filling Base: Serving Yangnyeom Chicken over steamed rice or alongside noodles creates a hearty meal that satisfies hunger.

Create a Sandwich

• Deliciously Unique: Use the fried chicken in a sandwich with fresh vegetables and sauce for a fun twist on classic flavors.

Serve as Party Appetizers

• Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Cut the wings into smaller pieces for easy snacking during gatherings or game days.

How to Perfect Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)

Achieving perfect Korean Fried Chicken requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your chicken turns out crispy and flavorful every time.

• Bold seasoning is key: Ensure you season the chicken well before cooking to infuse it with flavor.
• Double frying is essential: Frying the chicken twice creates an ultra-crispy texture that is characteristic of authentic Yangnyeom Chicken.
• Maintain oil temperature: Keep the oil at the right temperature throughout cooking for even frying and optimal crunch.
• Use cold club soda: Adding cold club soda to your wet batter helps create a light and airy coating.
• Let it rest after frying: Allow the fried chicken to rest on a wire rack; this keeps it crispy by preventing steam buildup.
• Toss in sauce while hot: Coat the chicken in Yangnyeom sauce immediately after frying for maximum flavor absorption.

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Best Side Dishes for Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)

To complement your Korean Fried Chicken, consider these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal while offering balance in flavors and textures.

1. Kimchi
   A classic Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, kimchi adds spice and tanginess that pairs perfectly with fried chicken.
2. Steamed Rice
   Simple yet effective, steamed rice serves as a neutral base that absorbs the flavors of Yangnyeom sauce.
3. Japchae (Sweet Potato Noodles)
   These stir-fried noodles offer a sweet and savory taste along with vegetables, making them an excellent accompaniment.
4. Korean Potato Salad
   Creamy and slightly sweet, this salad provides a rich counterpoint to the spiciness of the fried chicken.
5. Corn Cheese
   This cheesy side dish combines corn with melted cheese for a delightful sweetness that balances out bold flavors.
6. Spicy Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, chili flakes, and vinegar adds crunch and zing to your meal.
7. Mandu (Korean Dumplings)
   Whether steamed or pan-fried, these dumplings are filled with meat or vegetables and make for an excellent sharing item.
8. Banchan Variety
   A selection of small side dishes including pickles, marinated vegetables, or seasoned tofu can round out the meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken), there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are the most frequent mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Dry Brine: Not allowing the chicken to dry brine can lead to bland flavor. Always season and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
• Incorrect Oil Temperature: Frying at the wrong temperature will result in soggy chicken or burnt batter. Use a thermometer to maintain oil between 320–335°F during frying.
• Not Double Frying: Failing to double fry will prevent that signature crunch. Remember, the second fry is essential for achieving that crispy texture.
• Using Too Much Sauce: Over-saucing can make the chicken soggy. Toss lightly in sauce just before serving to keep it crispy.
• Ignoring Resting Time: Skipping the resting period after frying can lead to moisture loss and reduced crispiness. Let the chicken rest on a wire rack post-frying.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)

• Freeze cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F and place chicken on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate; heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, but this may make it less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium heat, adding chicken until warmed thoroughly, which helps restore crispiness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken) different?

Korean Fried Chicken is known for its ultra-crispy coating and sweet-spicy sauce made with gochujang, which sets it apart from traditional fried chicken.

Can I use other parts of chicken?

Yes, you can use thighs or drumsticks if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How spicy is Yangnyeom Chicken?

The spice level can vary based on how much gochujang you use. You can always start with less and add more according to your taste.

Can I prepare Yangnyeom sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the Yangnyeom sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.

What should I serve with Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken)?

Pair it with pickled radish, cabbage slaw, or even rice cakes for an authentic experience.

Final Thoughts

Korean Fried Chicken (Yangnyeom Chicken) is not just a dish; it’s an experience filled with bold flavors and delightful crunch. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply as a comforting meal at home. Feel free to customize your sauce or adjust the spices according to your preference!