Deliciously Crispy Korean-Style Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines a crispy texture with a bold flavor, look no further than this Deliciously Crispy Korean-Style Fried Chicken Tenders recipe. Inspired by the popular Korean fried chicken, these tenders are marinated, coated, and fried to perfection, delivering a satisfying crunch that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
• 1 tablespoon honey

For the Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold sparkling water

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, gochugaru, and honey.
2. Add the chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

1. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
2. Gradually add the cold sparkling water to the dry ingredients, mixing until you achieve a smooth batter. The sparkling water enhances the crispiness of the coating.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

1. In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat (around 350°F or 175°C). Use a thermometer for precise temperature control.

Step 4: Coat and Fry the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Dip each tender into the batter, allowing the excess to fall back into the bowl.
2. Carefully lower the coated chicken tenders into the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to turn them halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

1. Once cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to a wire rack or a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
2. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as gochujang mayo or sweet chili sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Use fresh chicken tenders for the best texture and flavor. If you’re unable to find gochugaru, you can substitute with a mixture of chili powder and paprika, but the taste will differ slightly.

• Crispiness Factor: The cold sparkling water in the batter is key to achieving that deliciously crispy texture. Don’t skip this step!

• Frying Temperature: Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial. If the oil is too hot, the coating will burn before the chicken is cooked through; if it’s too low, the coating will absorb excess oil and become soggy.

• Pairing Suggestions: These tenders pair beautifully with a side of kimchi, pickled vegetables, or a simple salad to balance out the richness.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and cornstarch to keep the dish gluten-free.

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of gochugaru in the marinade to control the spice level. For a milder version, reduce it or omit it altogether.

• Vegan Version: Use tofu or tempeh as a substitute for chicken and follow the same marinating and frying process.

Further Exploration

For more delicious Korean recipes, check out Korean Fried Chicken or Bibimbap for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Deliciously Crispy Korean-Style Fried Chicken Tenders recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the vibrant flavors of Korea to your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these tenders are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and indulge in a plate of irresistible chicken tenders. Don’t forget to share your creations and let others join in on this culinary adventure!