Spicy Korean Fried Chicken, Find authentic recipes and expert advice to elevate your cooking and impress your guests with every bite.
The irresistible allure of Korean Fried Chicken (KFC) is undeniable, but when you add a fiery kick, it transcends mere deliciousness into an addictive culinary experience. This blog post is your guide to mastering the art of Spicy Korean Fried Chicken, from understanding the essential ingredients to achieving that perfect crispy, spicy coating.

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Understanding the Magic of Gochujang
The foundation of any great spicy Korean fried chicken recipe lies in gochujang, a fermented chili paste. Its complex umami depth and rich, spicy notes are what truly sets this dish apart. You can find gochujang at most Asian grocery stores or online through retailers like Amazon. The quality of your gochujang significantly impacts the final flavor, so don’t skimp!
Preparing the Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide
Start by selecting your chicken – bone-in pieces work best, offering a succulent contrast to the crispy skin. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes in a mixture including soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of sesame oil. This step is crucial for ensuring juicy, flavorful chicken. For a more in-depth look at marinating techniques, check out our article on Optimizing Chicken Marinades.

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The Double-Fry Technique for Ultimate Crispiness
Achieving that signature double-fried KFC crunch is key. The first fry cooks the chicken through, while the second fry crisps up the skin to perfection. This technique requires patience, but the results are well worth the effort. Learn more about frying techniques to get the perfect texture.
Creating the Spicy Gochujang Glaze
Now, let’s make the magic happen! Combine your gochujang with other key ingredients like gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), rice syrup or honey for sweetness, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Adjust the amount of gochugaru to control the spice level; start conservatively and increase gradually to your preference. If you want some extra tips on working with chili, you might want to check out this expert advice.
Frying and Glazing: The Final Steps
Carefully fry the marinated chicken until golden brown and crispy. Then, toss the fried chicken in the spicy gochujang glaze, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. This is where the aroma will truly tantalize your senses!
Serving Suggestions for Your Spicy KFC
Serve immediately while it’s hot and crispy! Enjoy your spicy Korean Fried Chicken with a side of kimchi, sesame seeds, and some refreshing beer or makgeolli, a traditional Korean rice wine. Explore different side dish options to complement the spicy chicken.

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Tips and Tricks for Success
Don’t overcrowd the pan during frying, as this will lower the temperature and result in soggy chicken. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after the second fry to allow the juices to redistribute. And most importantly: have fun experimenting!
In conclusion, creating your own spicy Korean Fried Chicken at home is a rewarding experience. With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll be enjoying crispy, spicy, and unbelievably delicious results. Now go forth and create some culinary magic!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gochujang? Gochujang is a fermented Korean chili paste, a key ingredient for its umami depth and spice.
Can I adjust the spice level? Absolutely! Adjust the amount of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to your liking.
What kind of oil is best for frying? Vegetable oil or canola oil with a high smoke point is recommended.
What can I serve with my Spicy Korean Fried Chicken? Consider kimchi, sesame seeds, and beer or makgeolli.
Can I make this ahead of time? It’s best served fresh, but the chicken can be marinated in advance.
Why is Korean fried chicken so spicy?
Spiciness in Korean wings cea from gochujang or gochugaru which are made from chilies. Their heat is based on capsaicin which is an oil that coats your heat receptors. In order to ‘reduce’ the heat, you’ll need something that breaks up those oils.
What is spicy Korean chicken?
Marinated in a flavorful mixture of sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, and gochujang (Korean chile paste), these chicken thighs are slightly spicy and slightly sweet.
What is spicy fried chicken?
Chicken parts get marinated in a spicy buttermilk mixture, dredged in seasoned flour with a kick, and then fried in a skillet until crisp and golden brown on the outside, and juicy on the inside.
What makes Korean fried chicken so crunchy?
Unlike typical Western-style fried chicken, Korean fried chicken is coated in a light batter made from flour, cornstarch, or even potato starch. This helps create a tender, crispy exterior without the heaviness of traditional batter. In addition, the double frying method is key.
What makes Korean food so spicy?
However, many are probably unaware that Korea’s spicy flavors originate from gochujang (red chili paste). Gochujang is one of many Korean jang (fermented condiments), which acquire their complexity through months of fermenting in the dark in clay pots.
Is KFC Korean fried chicken?
KFC (Korean Fried Chicken) is a popular food item in Mukbang videos viewed during late night hours in South Korea. If you google Mukbang, you will find most of images showing delivery food or late night meal.
How to make the perfect Korean fried chicken?
Steps:
- Mix chicken with seasonings and cover in starch.
- Fry in hot oil for 7 to 8 minutes.
- Shake off, let sit, then fry for another 12 to 15 minutes.
- Coat in seasoning sauce.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over top and serve immediately.