Sweet & Spicy Korean Chicken Bites are crispy, sticky, and totally addictive — the perfect combo of heat, sweet, and umami. Think juicy bites of chicken tossed in a bold gochujang glaze with a glossy finish and a little crunch. Great as a snack, main dish, or party favorite! 🇰🇷🔥🍯
🍗 Sweet & Spicy Korean Chicken Bites
🛒 Ingredients:
For the chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup cornstarch (or potato starch for extra crisp)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil, for frying (or air frying)
For the glaze:
- 2 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1–2 tbsp water (to loosen the sauce if needed)
- Sesame seeds & chopped green onions, for garnish
🔥 Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken:
- Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Toss in cornstarch until well coated (for extra crunch, double-dip: coat, rest, then coat again).
- Cook the Chicken:
- Deep fry: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Air fry: Lightly spray chicken with oil and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Oven: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a pan over medium heat, combine all glaze ingredients. Stir and simmer until slightly thickened and glossy (about 3–4 minutes).
- Toss & Finish:
- Add cooked chicken to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
🍽️ Serve With:
- Steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice
- Kimchi or pickled veggies
- Lettuce wraps or a simple cucumber salad
Want to turn these into sliders, bao buns, or a rice bowl? Want a mild version for kids or a fire-breathing upgrade? I got you — just say the word!
