Name: Irresistible Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken Recipe to Wow Your Guests
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken wings or drumsticks (this juicy protein is the essential base for our flavorful dish); 0.5 tsp salt (a must-have for enhancing the chicken's natural flavor); 0.5 tsp black pepper (adds a mild touch of spice to season the meat); 0.5 cup cornstarch (provides a light, ultra-crispy coating for that perfect crunch); 0.5 cup flour (adds structure to the batter); 0.5 tsp garlic powder (infuses extra garlic goodness directly into the batter); 0.5 tsp baking powder (helps create a lighter texture); 1 egg (acts as a binding agent); 0.5 cup cold water (crucial for keeping the batter light and airy); 0.25 cup soy sauce (the star ingredient delivering deep umami flavor); 2 tbsp honey (adds a hint of sweetness); 2 tbsp brown sugar (enriches the sauce with added depth); 1 tbsp vinegar (adds a touch of acidity); 4 garlic cloves, minced (intensifies the garlicky flavor); 1 tsp grated ginger (contributes warmth and a comforting aroma); 1 tbsp sesame oil (introduces a nutty essence); 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (optional; adjust for a bit of heat); 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with water (thickens the sauce perfectly)

In a bustling street market in Seoul, the sizzling sounds of frying chicken beckoned, pulling me in like a moth to a flame. The star of that vibrant scene was the incredibly addictive Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken, a dish that captures the hearts of food lovers everywhere. Immerse yourself in the delightful crunch and rich flavors of this recipe, where sweet, salty, and garlicky notes coalesce beautifully. Not only is this dish a breeze to make at home, but it also serves as a sensational crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Picture it sizzling in your pan, golden and crispy, ready to be enjoyed alongside traditional Korean sides. Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with this tasty treat?

Why Is This Chicken So Addictive?

Irresistible Crunch: Each piece delivers a satisfying crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with its juicy, tender interior, making it a delight for the senses.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic creates a flavor profile that’s utterly mouthwatering.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and ingredients, this Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken Recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs looking for a quick win.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a party with friends, this dish is bound to impress and leave everyone asking for more.
Versatile Options: Feel free to substitute chicken parts or even try alternative cooking methods like baking to suit your preferences. Enjoy it with sides like spicy kimchi or a crisp salad for a complete meal!

Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken – 1 lb chicken wings or drumsticks; this juicy protein is the essential base for our flavorful dish.
• Salt – 1/2 tsp; a must-have for enhancing the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Black Pepper – 1/2 tsp; adds a mild touch of spice to season the meat.

For the Batter
• Cornstarch – 1/2 cup; provides a light, ultra-crispy coating for that perfect crunch.
• Flour – 1/2 cup; adds structure to the batter, ensuring it adheres nicely.
• Garlic Powder – 1/2 tsp; infuses extra garlic goodness directly into the batter.
• Baking Powder – 1/2 tsp; helps create a lighter texture, making every bite delightful.
• Egg – 1; acts as a binding agent to combine all batter ingredients.
• Cold Water – 1/2 cup; crucial for keeping the batter light and airy.

For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – 1/4 cup; the star ingredient, delivering deep umami flavor to the dish.
• Honey – 2 tbsp; adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory notes perfectly.
• Brown Sugar – 2 tbsp; enriches the sauce with added depth and sweetness.
• Vinegar – 1 tbsp; adds a touch of acidity that brightens the overall flavor.
• Garlic Cloves – 4, minced; intensifies the garlicky flavor, making the sauce irresistible.
• Grated Ginger – 1 tsp; contributes warmth and a comforting aroma.
• Sesame Oil – 1 tbsp; introduces a nutty essence that enhances the overall taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes – 1/2 tsp, optional; you can adjust this for a bit of heat based on your preference.
• Cornstarch mixed with Water – 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water; thickens the sauce perfectly for better adherence on the crispy chicken.

This Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken Recipe is a celebration of flavors and textures that will certainly dazzle your guests!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, combine ½ cup cornstarch, ½ cup flour, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp baking powder. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well mixed, ensuring a smooth batter later. This mixture will give your Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken a crispy coating, so take time to blend the ingredients thoroughly.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat 1 egg and mix in ½ cup of cold water until fully combined. Pour this egg mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir gently until a slightly thick batter forms. The cold water is essential for achieving a light texture in the coating, which enhances the crunch of the chicken.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Take the chicken pieces and dip them into the batter, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Use your hands or a fork to shake off any excess batter as you go along. This step is critical for a crispy exterior, so make sure each piece is evenly covered before proceeding to fry.

Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a deep fryer or large pan, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to completely submerge the chicken pieces for even cooking. It’s essential to maintain this temperature so that the chicken fries quickly, achieving that desired golden-brown color without becoming greasy.

Step 5: Fry the Chicken First Time
Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 6–7 minutes, or until they take on a light golden color. This initial fry helps to set the batter and ensures a crispy exterior, so keep an eye on them as they cook.

Step 6: Rest the Chicken
Once fried, transfer the chicken to a wire rack to rest for 5 minutes. This step allows steam to escape, preventing sogginess and giving your Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken an extra crunch when it’s fried again. Prepare for the second fry while waiting by ensuring your oil is still hot enough.

Step 7: Fry the Chicken Again
Return the rested chicken to the hot oil for a second fry, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the pieces are fully crispy and golden brown. This double frying method is what makes the chicken truly irresistible, bringing out a rich crunch that pairs beautifully with the sauce.

Step 8: Make the Sauce
In a small pot, combine ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp honey, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp vinegar, 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp grated ginger, and 1 tbsp sesame oil. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugars. This fragrant sauce will coat your chicken in a delightful glaze.

Step 9: Thicken the Sauce and Combine
Once simmering, stir in the cornstarch and water mixture to thicken the sauce for better adherence. Allow it to bubble for a minute until it achieves a glossy texture. Remove the sauce from heat and immediately add in the crispy fried chicken, tossing gently to coat every piece evenly.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken immediately, ideally paired with steamed rice, spicy kimchi, or pickled vegetables. The texture should be irresistibly crunchy and the flavors delightfully balanced. This dish is perfect for a family gathering or as a special treat to wow your guests!

Make Ahead Options

These Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the batter (dry ingredients mixed with wet) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the chicken pieces with the seasoned batter and refrigerate, ensuring they are well-coated to prevent any browning. For the sauce, mix the ingredients together and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, fry the chicken pieces straight from the fridge for that crispy crunch and warm the sauce gently before drizzling it over the fried chicken. This prep will save you time while delivering just as delicious results for your family or guests!

Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken Variations

Get creative with this recipe to make it your own!

Healthier Option: Bake the chicken instead of frying for a lighter take, while still keeping the delicious flavors intact.
Oven-baked versions can offer a crispy texture as well, especially when you use a spray of oil.
Spicy Twist: Add sriracha or chili paste to the sauce for an extra kick.
Mixing in a bit of heat transforms this dish, making it incredibly tantalizing for spice lovers.
Gluten-Free: Substitute wheat flour and cornstarch with gluten-free all-purpose flour.
This swap allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy the same mouthwatering taste without compromising on quality.
Maple Sweetness: Replace honey with maple syrup for a unique flavor profile.
The subtle sweetness and richness of maple can enhance the overall experience, making it a delightful variation.
Soy-Free Sauce: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a soy-free alternative.
This option still delivers umami goodness while being suitable for those avoiding soy.
Crispy Air Fryer: Use an air fryer for an even healthier crispy texture without the oil.
The result is just as crunchy, making it a perfect companion for quick family dinners.
Vegan-Friendly: Use cauliflower or tempeh instead of chicken, and create a delightful vegan version.
With the same flavorful sauce, this dish becomes a fabulous plant-based option that everyone will enjoy.
Crispy Garlic Kicks: Toss additional minced garlic in the batter for an intense garlic flavor.
This provides a new flavor dimension and delights any garlic lover at your dinner table!

Ready to make your own version of this flavorful dish? Pair your Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken with sides like spicy kimchi or steamed rice for a complete treat! If you’re feeling adventurous, check out my Bang Bang Chicken Bowl or Mofongo Garlic Lime Shrimp for more exciting flavor combinations!

Expert Tips for Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken

Double Frying: Fry the chicken pieces twice to achieve extraordinary crispiness. This technique locks in moisture while creating a satisfying crunch.
Cold Batter: Use very cold water when making the batter. This helps to keep the coating light and airy, crucial for that perfect texture in your Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken Recipe.
Rest Before Second Fry: Allow the chicken to rest on a wire rack for 5 minutes before frying again. This trick enhances the crispiness by ensuring any steam escapes from the chicken.
Adjusting Flavors: Feel free to customize the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce to suit your taste. Add more honey for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness.
Enjoy Immediately: Serve the chicken hot for the best flavor and texture. Letting it sit too long can lead to sogginess, so enjoy it straight from the pot!

What to Serve with Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken

Pairing this crispy delight with the right sides can elevate your meal to heavenly levels of deliciousness.

Steamed Rice: The fluffy texture of steamed rice serves as the perfect canvas to soak up the rich soy-garlic sauce. It balances the flavors beautifully.
Spicy Kimchi: A side of spicy kimchi adds a refreshing, tangy kick that contrasts perfectly with the sweetiness of the chicken. It brings a vibrant crunch to your plate.
Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickled veggies are essential for cutting through the richness of the fried chicken, adding both flavor and color to your meal.
Garlic Fried Rice: This dish enhances the garlicky goodness already in your chicken, creating a comforting, cohesive experience. Every bite is garlicky bliss!
Korean Coleslaw: A crisp, crunchy slaw brings a refreshing texture and tanginess that complements the chicken’s sweetness, adding a delightful crunch.
Asian Noodle Salad: A light and zesty noodle salad can add a fresh twist to the meal, featuring crisp vegetables and a sesame dressing that highlight Asian flavors.
Cold Beer: A crisp, cold beer pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness and enhancing the savory elements of the chicken for a perfect indulgence.
Green Tea: The subtle flavors of green tea cleanse the palate, making it an excellent drink choice to accompany this savory dish.
Chocolate Cake: If you’re craving dessert, a rich chocolate cake offers a luscious end to the meal, with its deep flavors harmonizing delightfully with the savory chicken.

Storage Tips for Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken

Fridge: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. This helps preserve the flavors of your delicious Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the chicken soggy.

Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using 1 lb of chicken wings or drumsticks. These cuts are juicy and allow for the batter to adhere beautifully, resulting in that irresistible crunch. You can even experiment with thighs or other bone-in pieces for varied textures!

How should I store leftover Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken?
After enjoying your meal, store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days! To maintain its delightful crunch, I suggest reheating it in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which revives its crispy texture.

Can I freeze my Soy Garlic Korean Fried Chicken?
Very! Freezing is a great option if you want to save some for later. First, lay the fried chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen solid, transfer the pieces to a freezer bag or a sturdy airtight container, ensuring they’re kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat directly from frozen.

What should I do if my batter isn’t crispy enough?
If your batter hasn’t reached the desired crispiness, consider a couple of adjustments. Make sure to use very cold water in your batter mix, as this helps create that light, airy texture. Additionally, the double frying technique is essential; allow the chicken to rest before the second fry to lock in that crunch. Lastly, be mindful of the frying temperature—keeping it steady at 350°F (175°C) can produce the best results.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Of course! If you’re cooking for others, it’s good to know that this recipe contains gluten (from the flour), soy (from the soy sauce), and can be adjusted for sweetness if you require a lower sugar option. For those with specific allergies, consider substitutions such as using gluten-free flour or tamari instead of soy sauce. Always check with guests if they have allergies to garlic or sesame, too!

How can I adjust the flavors in the sauce?
The more the merrier! If you wish to personalize the sauce, you can easily adjust the sweetness or heat to fit your taste preferences. Adding more honey or brown sugar enhances the sweetness, while increasing the amount of soy sauce deepens the flavor. If you love a spicy kick, a dash more of red pepper flakes can give it the heat you desire. Enjoy experimenting!