Introduction
If you’re craving a delicious and crispy chicken dish that packs a flavor punch, look no further. This recipe features crispy chicken coated in a delightful panko crust, served with a spicy gochujang butter that elevates the dish to a whole new level. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation that will make this crispy chicken the star of your meal.
Detailed Ingredients
Crispy Chicken
– 1 lb. chicken breasts
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup flour
– 2 eggs + 1/2 tablespoon gochujang sauce
– 2 cups panko
– Avocado oil spray
Gochujang Butter
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove grated garlic
– 1 1/2 tablespoons gochujang sauce (Bibigo brand recommended)
– Salt to taste
Extras
– Yum Yum sauce for dipping
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
15-20 minutes
Total Time
35-40 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Now that you have the necessary ingredients and time requirements ready, follow the instructions to prepare your crispy chicken dish! Enjoy the rich flavors of the gochujang butter paired with the crunch of the panko coating, accompanied by a side of Yum Yum sauce for dipping.
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 if it’s particularly thick. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
Set Up Breading Stations
Arrange three bowls:
– Bowl 1: Flour.
– Bowl 2: Beaten eggs mixed with 1/2 tablespoon gochujang sauce.
– Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs. Add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of salt to both the flour and panko bowls.
Bread the Chicken
Dredge each chicken piece in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, press into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring both sides are well-coated.
Cook the Chicken
Lightly spray each breaded chicken piece with avocado oil on the top surface.
– Air Fryer Method: Place the chicken in the air fryer. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes, then increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.
– Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 14-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. For extra golden color, broil briefly at the end.
– Pan-Frying Method: Heat a shallow layer of neutral cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken pieces until crispy and cooked through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Prepare the Gochujang Butter
In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, grated garlic, and 1 1/2 tablespoons of gochujang sauce. Season with salt to taste.
Assemble and Serve
Brush each crispy chicken piece with the gochujang butter sauce. Slice the chicken and serve on a platter or directly on a cutting board. Accompany with Yum Yum sauce for dipping and any preferred vegetables or sides.
Notes
Chicken Thickness
Ensure the chicken pieces are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Panko Breadcrumbs
Using panko breadcrumbs will yield a crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
Spice Level
Adjust the amount of gochujang sauce to fit your spice tolerance.
Storage
Leftover crispy chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
To reheat, use an oven or air fryer for best results to maintain crispiness.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Chicken
Slice chicken breasts into thin pieces, removing the tenderloin and cutting horizontally as needed. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
Setting Up Breading Stations
Arrange three bowls: one for flour, one for a mixture of beaten eggs and gochujang sauce, and one for panko breadcrumbs. Season the flour and panko with salt.
Breading the Chicken
Dredge each chicken piece in flour, dip in the egg mixture, then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing to ensure they stick.
Cooking the Chicken
– **Air Fryer Method**: Cook chicken in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes, then increase to 400°F (200°C) for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy.
– **Oven Method**: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 14-18 minutes, flipping halfway. Broil briefly for a golden finish.
– **Pan-Frying Method**: Fry in a shallow layer of oil over medium heat until crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Preparing Gochujang Butter
Whisk together melted butter, grated garlic, and gochujang sauce. Add salt to taste.
Assembling and Serving
Brush crispy chicken pieces with gochujang butter. Serve with Yum Yum sauce and your choice of vegetables or sides.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result, but cooking times may vary.
What is gochujang sauce?
Gochujang is a Korean red chili paste that provides heat and depth of flavor.
Can I bake the chicken without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven or pan-fry it as indicated in the methods.
What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute, though the texture will not be as crispy.
How can I make the chicken spicier?
Increase the amount of gochujang sauce in the egg mixture or add crushed red pepper flakes.
Can the recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs, you can make this recipe gluten-free.
Conclusion
Crispy Chicken with Gochujang Butter is a delightful dish that embodies a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The chicken is incredibly crispy, thanks to the panko coating and the cooking method of your choice, while the gochujang butter adds a unique kick that elevates the overall taste. Serve it with Yum Yum sauce and your favorite sides for a meal that is sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Chicken Tacos
Use leftover crispy chicken in soft or hard taco shells, topped with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of gochujang sauce for a spicy twist.
Gochujang Chicken Salad
Toss chopped crispy chicken pieces with mixed greens, avocado, and a gochujang vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.
Gochujang Chicken Rice Bowl
Serve the crispy chicken over a bed of rice, topped with steamed vegetables and a generous drizzle of gochujang butter.
Chili Garlic Chicken Wings
Use the same breading technique on wings for a fun appetizer, tossing them in a mix of gochujang and garlic after cooking.
Crispy Chicken Sandwich
Place a piece of the crispy chicken between two buns with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a dollop of Yum Yum sauce for a satisfying sandwich.
Asian Style Chicken Nuggets
Cut chicken into nugget-sized pieces, bread them as instructed, and serve with a side of gochujang dipping sauce for a fun snack.
