Description
This Korean Fried Chicken recipe uses an air fryer to create crispy, golden chicken tenders coated with a flavorful, spicy-sweet Korean-style sauce. The use of crushed cornflakes for the coating adds an extra crunch, and the homemade gochujang-based sauce delivers authentic Korean flavors, making it a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional frying methods.
Ingredients
Chicken Coating
- 8 pieces chicken tenders
- 1 cup crushed corn flakes
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 2 eggs
Korean Style Sauce
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks green onion (separated whites and greens)
- 2 tbsp gochujang
- 3 tbsp honey
- 3 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mirin
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Tenders: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). In a shallow dish, crush the cornflakes and mix with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. In a separate large bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, then roll in the seasoned crushed cornflakes, pressing gently to adhere.
- Air Fry the Chicken Tenders: Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece. Lightly spray with avocado oil. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the Korean Style Sauce: While the chicken cooks, heat avocado oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and the white parts of the green onion, sauté until fragrant. Stir in gochujang, honey, ketchup, sesame oil, and mirin. Simmer the sauce while stirring until it thickens slightly. Stir in toasted sesame seeds.
- Coat the Chicken Tenders: When cooked, transfer the chicken tenders to the saucepan. Toss gently until they are fully coated with the sauce.
- Serve: Serve the Korean fried chicken hot, garnished with the green parts of the chopped green onion and additional toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- Ensure the cornflakes are finely crushed for an even coating.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper crisping.
- Flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- The sauce can be adjusted to your preferred spice level by adding more or less gochujang.
- Mirin adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sauce but can be substituted with rice wine or a small amount of sugar mixed with a splash of water if unavailable.
- Use avocado oil spray or any high smoke point oil for best air frying results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
