Korean BBQ Fried Chicken Bites (Air Fryer)
Equipment
- 1 Air fryer
- 1 Mixing Bowls
- 1 Tongs
- 1 Saucepan
- 1 Basting brush
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Breast or Thighs
- 1/4 cup Cornstarch
- 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 2 Eggs
- 1/4 tbsp Salt
- 1/4 tbsp Black Pepper
- 1/4 tbsp Garlic Powder
- Vegetable Oil Spray
Notes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken bites in a bowl and season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss to coat evenly.
- Set Up Breading Station:
- Bowl 1: Combine cornstarch and flour.
- Bowl 2: Beat the eggs.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken piece into the egg, then coat it in the flour-cornstarch mixture. Shake off excess coating.
Step 2: Preheat and Cook the Chicken in the Air Fryer
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Arrange Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place the chicken bites in the basket in a single layer without overcrowding. Spray the tops of the chicken with oil for a crispy finish.
- Cook: Air fry for 16-18 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Make the Korean BBQ Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and water.
- Simmer: Heat the sauce over medium-low heat until it begins to bubble and thicken, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
- Toss the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, place it in a large mixing bowl. Pour the Korean BBQ sauce over the chicken and gently toss until each piece is well coated.
- Optional: If you prefer crispier chicken, place the coated chicken back in the air fryer for 2 minutes at 375°F (190°C) to caramelize the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the chicken for a finishing touch.
- Serve: Serve hot with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Additional Tips
- Crispier Chicken: Double-dip the chicken pieces in the egg and flour-cornstarch mixture for extra crunch.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of gochujang based on your spice preference.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Protein: 22 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Sugar: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
These Korean BBQ Fried Chicken Bites are the perfect mix of crispy, savory, and spicy. Made healthier in the air fryer, they’re a great dinner option or game-day treat! Enjoy the bold Korean flavors with minimal effort!
