Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious twist on classic chicken, this recipe for crispy gochujang chicken with a spicy butter sauce is a must-try. The combination of panko breadcrumbs and gochujang adds a delightful crunch and flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests. Follow the steps below to whip up this tasty dish that everyone will love!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Chicken:
– 1 lb. chicken breasts
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– Freshly ground black pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 tablespoon gochujang sauce
– 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
– Avocado oil spray
For the Gochujang Butter:
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, grated
– 1 1/2 tablespoons gochujang sauce
– Salt to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
8 minutes
Total Time
23 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
– Slice each chicken breast into thinner pieces. Begin by removing the tenderloin from the back, then cut the breast horizontally into halves or thirds, depending on thickness.
– Season the chicken pieces with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Set Up Breading Stations:
– Arrange three shallow bowls:
– First bowl: all-purpose flour.
– Second bowl: whisk together eggs and 1/2 tablespoon gochujang sauce.
– Third bowl: panko breadcrumbs.
– Add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of salt to both the flour and panko bowls, mixing well.
3. Bread the Chicken:
– Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, shaking off any excess.
– Dip into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
– Press into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
4. Cook the Chicken:
– Lightly spray each breaded chicken piece with avocado oil.
– Place in an air fryer and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
– Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
5. Prepare the Gochujang Butter:
– In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat.
– Stir in the grated garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
– Whisk in 1 1/2 tablespoons of gochujang sauce until the mixture is smooth.
– Season with salt to taste.
6. Assemble and Serve:
– Brush the cooked chicken pieces with the gochujang butter sauce.
– Serve immediately, optionally accompanied by a side of Yum Yum sauce for dipping. Enjoy your flavorful creation!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
Slice each chicken breast into thinner pieces. Begin by removing the tenderloin from the back, then cut the breast horizontally into halves or thirds, depending on thickness. Season the chicken pieces with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Set Up Breading Stations:
Arrange three shallow bowls:
– First bowl: all-purpose flour.
– Second bowl: whisk together eggs and 1/2 tablespoon gochujang sauce.
– Third bowl: panko breadcrumbs.
Add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of salt to both the flour and panko bowls, mixing well.
Bread the Chicken:
Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Press into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
Cook the Chicken:
Lightly spray each breaded chicken piece with avocado oil. Place in an air fryer and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare the Gochujang Butter:
In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Stir in the grated garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Whisk in 1 1/2 tablespoons of gochujang sauce until the mixture is smooth. Season with salt to taste.
Assemble and Serve:
Brush the cooked chicken pieces with the gochujang butter sauce. Serve immediately, optionally accompanied by a side of Yum Yum sauce for dipping.
Notes
Chicken Slicing:
When slicing chicken, ensure even thickness for uniform cooking.
Breading Tips:
Shake off excess flour and egg; this helps the breadcrumbs adhere better.
Cooking Time:
Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of chicken pieces and air fryer models.
Storage:
Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer for best results.
Gochujang Sauce:
Adjust the amount of gochujang sauce in the butter to suit your spice preference.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Chicken
Slice chicken breasts into thinner pieces for even cooking. Remove the tenderloin and cut horizontally into halves or thirds based on thickness. Season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.
Setting Up Breading Stations
Organize three shallow bowls for a standardized breading process. Use one for all-purpose flour, one for a whisked egg and gochujang mixture, and one for panko breadcrumbs. Season the flour and breadcrumbs with salt for additional flavor.
Breading the Chicken
Dredge chicken pieces in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, ensuring excess is removed. Finally, press into panko breadcrumbs for an even, crispy coating.
Cooking the Chicken
Lightly spray breaded chicken with avocado oil and air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes. Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
Preparing the Gochujang Butter
Melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add grated garlic and cook until fragrant, then whisk in gochujang until smooth. Season with salt to taste for enhanced flavor.
Assembling and Serving
Brush cooked chicken with gochujang butter sauce for added flavor. Serve immediately, optionally pairing with Yum Yum sauce for a delicious dip.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but cooking times may vary due to their higher fat content.
What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can be used as a substitute, though the texture may differ slightly.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with tofu or eggplant, adjusting the cooking time accordingly to ensure thorough cooking.
Can I make the gochujang butter in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the gochujang butter in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, vegetables, or a fresh salad to balance flavors and textures.
Conclusion
This Crispy Gochujang Chicken is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, offering a satisfying crunch and a spicy kick from the gochujang butter. The air frying technique ensures that the chicken is both crispy and healthier compared to traditional frying methods. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Shrimp Tacos
Use a similar gochujang marinade for shrimp, then grill them and serve in corn tortillas with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and a drizzle of lime.
Gochujang Glazed Salmon
Marinate salmon fillets in a mixture of gochujang, soy sauce, and honey, then bake or grill. Serve with steamed rice and vegetables for a delightful meal.
Vegetable Panko Bites
Coat your favorite vegetables, like zucchini or sweet potatoes, in the same panko breading and air fry for a crispy vegetarian snack.
Korean BBQ Meatballs
Mix ground chicken or beef with gochujang, garlic, and breadcrumbs, then bake or fry. Serve with a spicy dipping sauce for an appetizer or main dish.
Gochujang Hummus
Blend chickpeas with tahini, garlic, gochujang, and lemon juice for a spicy twist on traditional hummus. Perfect as a dip for veggies or pita chips.
Asian Chicken Salad
Combine shredded chicken with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing, adding a touch of gochujang for heat. Top with crispy noodles for added crunch.
