Craving some mouth-watering Korean flavors with a healthier twist? This Crispy Korean Fried Chicken recipe offers a high-protein, low-calorie option that’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. We’ll break down every step to help you achieve golden, crispy chicken coated in a savory, sticky Korean sauce. Enjoy this dish on its own, or pair it with rice and your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Crispy Korean Fried Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this delicious meal, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, diced
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp cornflour or cornstarch (for coating)
For the Sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup water
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp chili paste (adjust to your spice level)
- 1 tbsp honey (or a low-calorie sweetener)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornflour, mixed with 1 tbsp water (to thicken sauce)
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by seasoning your diced chicken breast. Sprinkle with salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, then toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with seasoning.
Tip: Using chicken breast keeps the dish high in protein and low in calories, but you can substitute with thigh meat for a juicier texture if preferred.
Step 2: Coat with Cornflour for Extra Crispiness
Next, add cornflour (or cornstarch) to the seasoned chicken. Gently toss the chicken pieces, ensuring an even, light coat. This layer of cornflour will help the chicken turn extra crispy while cooking.
Step 3: Fry the Chicken to Golden Perfection
Heat a pan over high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the coated chicken pieces. Sauté the chicken on high heat, turning occasionally, until each piece is golden brown and crispy all over.
Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow each piece of chicken to cook evenly and achieve maximum crispiness. Cook in batches if necessary.
Step 4: Prepare the Sticky Korean Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, set it aside and lower the heat to medium. To the same pan, add soy sauce, water, minced garlic, grated ginger, chili paste, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and the cornflour slurry (cornflour mixed with water).
Slowly bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly. Let the sauce cook until it thickens and has a smooth, glossy consistency.
Step 5: Coat the Chicken in Sauce
Add the crispy chicken pieces back into the pan, tossing them until they are completely coated in the sticky sauce. Let the chicken sit in the sauce for an additional minute or two to allow it to soak up the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Divide the chicken into four servings. Serve over white rice, or pair with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions as garnish for an authentic Korean touch.
Tips for Meal Prep
If you’re prepping for the week, store the crispy Korean fried chicken in airtight containers, with rice or your preferred side. This dish stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Health Benefits
This recipe is not only a delicious twist on traditional fried chicken but also a healthier version:
- High Protein: Lean chicken breast provides a protein-rich base, making this dish ideal for muscle recovery and energy.
- Low Calorie: The use of cornflour as a light coating and olive oil for frying keeps calories in check without compromising on flavor.
- Korean Flavor Profile: Using ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and ginger not only delivers a tasty dish but also adds antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.
This Crispy Korean Fried Chicken recipe is perfect for those who love bold flavors without the guilt. It’s a great addition to your weekly meal prep and can be customized to suit your spice level and dietary needs. Try it out and enjoy a healthier twist on Korean fried chicken right at home!
