Yangnyeom chicken is a super yummy Korean fried chicken that'll make your taste buds party! It's crispy and coated in a sweet and spicy sauce made from gochujang, honey, and soy sauce. To make it, you start by marinating chicken pieces, then coat them in cornstarch, and fry until golden brown. After frying, you toss the chicken in that delicious Yangnyeom sauce for extra flavor. This dish is perfect for a fun meal with family or friends, and it's sure to bring everyone together. If you're curious about how to make it at home, there's much more to discover!
Key Takeaways
- Yangnyeom chicken originated in Korea in the 1960s as a sweet and spicy alternative to traditional fried chicken.
- The dish features crispy chicken coated in a sauce made from gochujang, honey, and soy sauce.
- A double-frying technique ensures the chicken achieves its signature crunchiness and golden color.
- Yangnyeom chicken is often enjoyed with pickled radish or fresh vegetables for a refreshing contrast.
- This dish is popular for sharing during gatherings, sports events, and celebrations, enhancing social enjoyment.
History
Yangnyeom chicken has a rich history that's deeply rooted in Korean cuisine. This delicious dish first popped up in Korea around the 1960s, when people started craving something new and exciting. It's a twist on traditional fried chicken, bringing together crispy bites and a sweet, spicy sauce that makes your taste buds dance!
You might wonder how it all began. Well, after the Korean War, many people sought comfort in food, and fried chicken became a popular choice. Vendors started adding their own special sauces, and that's when Yangnyeom chicken was born. It quickly became a favorite at family gatherings and celebrations.
Today, you'll find Yangnyeom chicken everywhere, from fancy restaurants to cozy street stalls. It's often enjoyed with friends while sharing laughter and stories.
Plus, it's a must-have during big games, as it makes the perfect snack to cheer you on!
Recipe
Yangnyeom Chicken, a popular Korean dish, is known for its crispy fried chicken coated in a sweet and spicy sauce. This dish is a staple in Korean cuisine, often enjoyed as a snack or a main course. The key to perfecting Yangnyeom Chicken lies in the balance of flavors – the heat from the gochujang (Korean chili paste) combined with the sweetness of honey and the savory notes of soy sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that tantalizes the taste buds.
To achieve that signature crunch, it's essential to double-fry the chicken. This technique not only enhances the crispiness but also seals in the juices, making every bite succulent. Pairing the fried chicken with a side of pickled radish or fresh vegetables can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. Prepare to impress your family and friends with this delightful Korean classic that's sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken wings or drumsticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
- 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Green onions, chopped for garnish
To cook Yangnyeom Chicken, start by marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of salt, pepper, and a tablespoon of soy sauce for about 30 minutes. In a bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. Coat each piece of marinated chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat and fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 8-10 minutes per batch. Let the chicken drain on paper towels, then fry them again for an additional 5 minutes for extra crispiness.
While the chicken is frying, prepare the sauce by mixing gochujang, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat until heated through. Toss the fried chicken in the sauce until evenly coated, then garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
When making Yangnyeom Chicken, it's important to ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying; too low, and the chicken will absorb excess oil, becoming greasy, and too high, and it will burn. Using a thermometer can help maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C).
Additionally, feel free to adjust the spice level of the sauce to your preference – adding more gochujang for heat or more honey for sweetness will customize the dish to suit your taste. Serve with a side of pickled radish for a refreshing touch!
Cooking Steps
Now that you've got your recipe for Yangnyeom Chicken, it's time to roll up your sleeves and start cooking!
First, you'll prepare the chicken pieces and marinate them in soy sauce, which makes them super flavorful.
Then, you'll coat them in a cornstarch batter, fry until they're golden brown, and finally toss them in that delicious Yangnyeom sauce to make every bite irresistible!
Step 1. Prepare Chicken Pieces
To prepare chicken pieces for your Yangnyeom Chicken, start by selecting about 2 to 3 pounds of bone-in, skin-on chicken, such as thighs or drumsticks, which will keep the meat juicy during cooking.
Once you've got your chicken, give it a good rinse under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps remove any extra moisture, ensuring a crispy finish later on.
Next, check the chicken for any leftover feathers or bits of fat. You want your chicken to look its best! If you spot anything, just trim it away with a sharp knife.
Now, it's time to cut the chicken into smaller pieces if you like. This can help it cook evenly and gives you more delicious, crispy bits to enjoy!
After that, place your chicken pieces in a large bowl or dish, making sure they've got plenty of room to breathe.
You might even want to think about how you're going to season them later, because who doesn't love a flavor explosion?
With everything prepped, you're one step closer to creating that mouthwatering Yangnyeom Chicken—it's going to be great!
Step 2. Marinate in Soy Sauce
Once your chicken pieces are ready, it's time to infuse them with flavor by marinating in soy sauce. This step is super important because it brings out the yummy taste in your chicken!
Grab a mixing bowl, and pour in about half a cup of soy sauce. You can also add a tablespoon of minced garlic and a teaspoon of grated ginger for an extra flavor boost. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later!
Now, toss in your chicken pieces, making sure each one gets coated well with the soy sauce mixture. You can take a moment to give them a good mix, using your hands or a spoon—whatever you prefer!
Once they're all covered, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the fridge. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting them sit for a couple of hours will make them even tastier.
While you wait, you can start dreaming about how crispy and delicious your Yangnyeom Chicken will be! The soy sauce will work its magic, making your chicken full of flavor and ready for the next step in your cooking adventure!
Step 3. Coat With Cornstarch Batter
Get ready to take your marinated chicken to the next level by coating it with a cornstarch batter! This part is super fun and easy, so let's dive in.
First, you'll need to grab a bowl and pour in some cornstarch—about one cup should do. Then, take your marinated chicken pieces and toss them in the bowl, making sure each piece gets a nice, even coat. You want them to be well-covered, like a warm blanket on a chilly night!
Now, if you like a little extra crunch, you can mix in a pinch of salt or even some garlic powder for flavor. Just sprinkle it in and give your cornstarch a little stir.
Once your chicken's all dressed up, shake off any excess cornstarch. You don't want it to be too thick; just a light coating will work wonders!
If you see any clumps of cornstarch, don't worry—just break them up with your fingers.
Now, you're ready for the next step in your cooking adventure. Your chicken is going to be so crispy and delicious, you'll be dreaming of it all night! Happy cooking!
Step 4. Fry Until Golden Brown
Frying your coated chicken pieces until they're golden brown is where the magic happens! First, heat up your oil in a deep pan or fryer. You want it nice and hot, around 350°F (175°C). If you don't have a thermometer, drop a small piece of batter in; if it bubbles and sizzles right away, you're good to go!
Carefully add your coated chicken pieces to the hot oil, but don't overcrowd the pan. Giving them space lets them fry evenly and get that crispy texture we all love. Fry them for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure every side gets that beautiful golden color.
As they cook, keep an eye on them; you don't want them to burn! When they're golden brown and deliciously crispy, it's time to scoop them out and let them drain on a paper towel. This helps soak up any extra oil, making your chicken even tastier.
Now, you've got the perfect base for your Yangnyeom Chicken! Just imagine how good it'll taste once you toss those crispy bites with the flavorful sauce. Yum!
Step 5. Toss in Yangnyeom Sauce
Now that your chicken is perfectly fried, it's time to bring it to life with the delicious Yangnyeom sauce. Grab a large bowl and pour in your Yangnyeom sauce, which is a tasty mix of gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, honey, garlic, and sesame oil. Once the sauce is ready, toss your fried chicken pieces in the bowl and coat them generously with the Yangnyeom sauce. Make sure each piece is fully coated for maximum flavor. This sauce is also perfect for adding a spicy kick to other dishes, like our ojingeo bokkeum recipe.
Stir it all together until it's smooth and ready to coat your chicken.
Next, carefully add your crispy fried chicken pieces to the bowl. Make sure to toss them gently so every piece gets a nice, even coating of that flavorful sauce. It's like giving your chicken a warm, spicy hug!
If you like extra sauce, feel free to pour a little more over the top.
Once everything's coated, you can let it sit for a minute or two to soak up all those yummy flavors.
Then, if you want, sprinkle some sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for that fancy touch.
Now, you're ready to serve your Yangnyeom chicken! Grab some napkins, because things might get a bit messy, but that's part of the fun. Enjoy every spicy, crunchy bite!
Final Thoughts
Yangnyeom chicken is more than just a delicious dish; it's an experience that brings a burst of flavor to your table. When you take that first crispy bite, you'll discover the sweet and spicy sauce dancing on your taste buds. It's like a party in your mouth, and everyone's invited!
This dish isn't just about eating; it's about enjoying each moment with family and friends, sharing laughs, and maybe even a few stories.
Making yangnyeom chicken at home can be a fun adventure. You can gather your friends or family, set up a cooking station, and let everyone join in on the fun.
Mixing the ingredients for the sauce and frying the chicken creates a delightful atmosphere full of chatter and excitement. Plus, when you present your yummy creation, you'll feel like a superstar chef!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Main Differences Between Yangnyeom Chicken and Regular Fried Chicken?
When comparing different types of fried chicken, you'll notice variations in batter, seasoning, and sauces. Regular fried chicken tends to be crispy and savory, while some versions are spicier and feature unique flavor profiles.
Is Yangnyeom Chicken Spicy? How Is the Spice Level?
Yes, it can be spicy! The spice level varies, but you'll often find a delightful heat that complements the sweetness. If you enjoy bold flavors, you're likely to love the kick it brings.
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for Yangnyeom Chicken?
Yes, you can definitely use different types of meat for this dish. Chicken isn't the only option; try pork, beef, or even tofu for a delicious twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for best results.
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Yangnyeom Chicken?
When enjoying fried chicken, consider pairing it with refreshing coleslaw, crispy pickles, or fluffy rice. These sides complement the dish's flavors, adding crunch and balance. Don't forget a tangy dipping sauce for extra zest!
How Can I Store Leftover Yangnyeom Chicken?
To store leftover fried chicken, let it cool to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for longer. Just reheat before enjoying again!
Ji-hoon is a skilled chef specializing in traditional and modern Korean cuisine. From savory bulgogi and kimchi to hearty stews and sizzling bibimbap, Ji-hoon’s recipes bring Korea’s bold, spicy, and umami-rich flavors to your kitchen. He focuses on authentic techniques and fresh ingredients that make Korean food so vibrant and flavorful.
