Satisfy your cravings and make these easy Korean Fried Chicken Air Fryer! Enjoy crispy perfection without the mess of deep frying. I can’t believe how good this Korean fried chicken was made in the air fryer. It is almost genius! Perfect for game days, family dinners, or a fun weeknight treat, this dish will impress your friends and family with its bold flavors and satisfying crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy Texture: The air fryer creates a perfectly crispy coating without all the oil of traditional frying.
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes total time, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time!
- Versatile Flavor: The sweet and spicy Korean sauce elevates the chicken’s flavor, making it ideal for various occasions.
- Healthier Option: Enjoy classic fried chicken guilt-free with less oil and fewer calories.
- Easy Cleanup: Say goodbye to messy frying pans—cleaning your air fryer is a breeze!
Tools and Preparation
To make your Korean Fried Chicken Air Fryer, gather the necessary tools that will help streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Basting brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Air fryer: This is the star of the show, providing a healthier alternative to frying with hot air circulation.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients easily and keeping your workspace organized.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that your sauce has just the right balance of flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 8 pieces chicken tenders
- 1 cup of crushed corn flakes
- 1 tbsp of garlic powder
- 1 tsp of paprika
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp of salt
- 1 tsp of pepper
Korean Style Sauce
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 2 stalks of green onion (whites and greens separated)
- 2 tbsp of gochujang
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mirin
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Toasted sesame seeds
How to Make Korean Fried Chicken Air Fryer
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Coating
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, then coat with crushed corn flakes evenly.
Step 2: Preheat Your Air Fryer
- Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes while you finish preparing the chicken.
Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Step 4: Make the Korean Style Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine avocado oil, minced garlic, and white parts of green onions.
- Stir in gochujang, honey, ketchup, mirin, and sesame oil. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Toss Chicken in Sauce
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and toss it in the Korean style sauce until well coated.
Step 6: Serve Hot
- Garnish with green parts of green onions and toasted sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your delicious Korean Fried Chicken Air Fryer!
How to Serve Korean Fried Chicken Air Fryer
Korean Fried Chicken made in the air fryer is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your meal experience and impress your guests.
With a Side of Rice
- Steamed White Rice: A classic choice that balances the spicy and savory flavors of the chicken.
- Fried Rice: Add veggies or proteins to create a fulfilling dish that pairs well with the fried chicken.
As Sliders
- Mini Sandwiches: Place pieces of chicken between slider buns with lettuce and a drizzle of sauce for a fun appetizer.
- Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as wraps; add chicken, veggies, and sauce for a fresh bite.
With Dipping Sauces
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Offers a sweet and spicy kick that complements the crispy chicken.
- Soy-Ginger Dip: A savory option that adds depth to every bite.
In Tacos
- Korean Chicken Tacos: Combine shredded chicken with kimchi, avocado, and a drizzle of sauce in soft tortillas for a fusion twist.
As an Appetizer
- Skewered Chicken Bites: Thread pieces onto skewers for easy serving at parties or gatherings.
How to Perfect Korean Fried Chicken Air Fryer
To achieve crispy perfection with your Korean Fried Chicken in the air fryer, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Corn Flakes: For extra crunchiness, crush corn flakes rather than using regular breadcrumbs.
- Marinate Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate briefly enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: This ensures even cooking and gets your chicken crispy right from the start.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Give each piece room to breathe so they cook evenly and get crispy all around.
- Flip Halfway Through Cooking: This helps achieve an even golden crust on all sides.
Best Side Dishes for Korean Fried Chicken Air Fryer
Pairing side dishes with your Korean Fried Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some perfect options to consider.
- Kimchi: This fermented side dish adds tanginess and spice, balancing out the richness of the chicken.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw with a creamy dressing provides texture contrast and refreshing flavor.
- Pickled Vegetables: Quick-pickled cucumbers or radishes offer a bright acidity that complements fried foods well.
- Macaroni Salad: Creamy pasta salad can provide comfort and a different flavor profile alongside the chicken.
- Garlic Noodles: These buttery noodles add richness that pairs beautifully with crispy chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli: A simple vegetable option that adds color and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Korean Fried Chicken in an air fryer can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some to avoid.
Overcrowding the Basket: Placing too many pieces of chicken in the air fryer can prevent them from getting crispy. Always leave space between the pieces for proper airflow.
Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Take time to let your chicken soak in seasoning before cooking.
Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Failing to preheat your air fryer may result in uneven cooking. Always preheat for a few minutes before adding your chicken.
Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking times may vary based on your air fryer model. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Using the Wrong Coating: Using regular breadcrumbs instead of crushed corn flakes can affect texture. Stick with corn flakes for that perfect crunch.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3 days for best quality.
- Allow chicken to cool before sealing for storage.
Freezing Korean Fried Chicken Air Fryer
- Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Store in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Use within 2 months for optimal taste and texture.
Reheating Korean Fried Chicken Air Fryer
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, but this may make it less crispy.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until hot and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Korean Fried Chicken Air Fryer.
What is the best way to season Korean Fried Chicken Air Fryer?
The best way is to use a mix of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Marinating helps infuse flavor into the chicken.
Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. Just adjust the cooking time as frozen meat usually takes longer to cook than fresh.
How do I achieve extra crispiness with Korean Fried Chicken Air Fryer?
For extra crispiness, double coat your chicken by dipping it back into egg and then into crushed corn flakes before air frying.
What dipping sauces pair well with Korean Fried Chicken Air Fryer?
Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce mixed with sesame oil, or even ranch dressing make great dipping sauces!
Final Thoughts
Korean Fried Chicken made in an air fryer is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different spices or sauces to suit your taste. It’s a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy, perfect for any meal or gathering. Don’t hesitate—try making it today!
Korean Fried Chicken Air Fryer
Satisfy your cravings with this easy recipe for Korean Fried Chicken made in the air fryer! This dish delivers crispy perfection without the mess of deep frying. With a delightful sweet and spicy sauce, these tender chicken tenders are perfect for game days, family dinners, or as a fun weeknight treat. Impress your friends and family with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch, all while enjoying a healthier version of classic fried chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (2 pieces per serving)
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients
- 8 pieces chicken tenders
- 1 cup crushed corn flakes
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 2 stalks of green onion (whites and greens separated)
- 2 tbsp gochujang
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mirin
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Dip each chicken tender in the egg mixture and coat with crushed corn flakes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
- For the sauce, heat avocado oil in a saucepan over medium heat; add minced garlic and white parts of green onions. Stir in gochujang, honey, ketchup, mirin, and sesame oil; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Toss cooked chicken in the sauce until well coated. Serve hot garnished with green onion tops and sesame seeds.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
