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The Best Korean Fried Chicken Cooks in just 30 minutes

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Achieve legendary Korean crunch fast! This 30-minute recipe uses a potato starch and baking powder coating for shatteringly crispy boneless chicken thighs. Full instructions and nutrition included.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch cubes) 1.5 lbs
  • Potato Starch or Cornstarch 1 cup
  • All-Purpose Flour 1/2 cup
  • Baking Powder 1 teaspoon
  • Fine Sea Salt 1 teaspoon
  • Vegetable Oil (for deep frying) 4 cups
  • Gochujang (Korean chili paste) 2 tablespoons
  • Soy Sauce 1 tablespoon

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Coating
  2. Step 2: First Fry (Cooking)
  3. Step 3: Prepare the Quick Sauce
  4. Step 4: Second Fry (Crisping)
  5. Step 5: Sauce and Serve

Notes

  • If you are making a large batch, keep a portion of the fried chicken *unsauced* and store it separately; the sauce is best stored in the fridge and added just before reheating.
  • To revive the signature crispiness, spread leftovers on a wire rack over a baking sheet and heat in a 400°F oven or air fryer for 5-7 minutes until hot and crackling.
  • This spicy chicken is traditionally balanced by sour flavors; serve alongside a simple side of rice and quick-pickled cucumber or radishes (Korean *mu*) to refresh the palate.
  • The inclusion of baking powder alongside the starch creates the ultra-light, shattery crust characteristic of true KFC; make sure your oil temperature is steady (around 350°F) before beginning the critical second fry.
  • Author: Maya Rose
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American