Yangnyeom Chicken: A Sweet and Spicy Treat!
If you’re looking for a delicious and exciting dish to try, Yangnyeom Chicken is the way to go! This classic Korean dish features seasoned fried chicken that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, coated in a mouthwatering sauce. It holds a special place in Korean cuisine, often enjoyed during festive occasions and gatherings with family and friends. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors makes this dish incredibly popular, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your home too!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Chicken (cut into pieces) | 2 pounds |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Rice flour | 1/2 cup |
| Cold water | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cooking oil (for frying) | Enough for deep frying |
| Gochujang (Korean chili paste) | 2 tablespoons |
| Honey | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon |
For a healthier option, you can substitute chicken with tofu or vegetables, and use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry using paper towels. This helps remove excess moisture, making the chicken crispier when fried.
- Make the Batter: In a large bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, rice flour, salt, and pepper together. Gradually add cold water and whisk until you have a smooth batter.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each piece of chicken into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan, heat the cooking oil over medium-high heat. To check if it’s ready, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the top.
- Fry the Chicken: Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken and drain on paper towels.
- Make the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine gochujang, honey, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Heat over low flame, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Coat the Fried Chicken: In a large bowl, place the fried chicken and pour the sauce over it. Toss gently until all pieces are well coated.
- Serve: Transfer the Yangnyeom Chicken to a serving plate. Enjoy it warm as is or with a side of pickled radishes!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 25g | 50% |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | 10% |
| Fats | 18g | 28% |
| Sodium | 600mg | 26% |
Tips and Tricks
- Double Frying: For extra crispiness, try frying the chicken twice! Fry it first until lightly golden, then remove it. Let it rest for a few minutes and fry again until fully golden.
- Marinate the Chicken: For a richer flavor, you can marinate the chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for about 30 minutes before coating them.
- Watch the Temperature: Keep the oil at a consistent temperature (around 350°F) to prevent the chicken from absorbing too much oil and becoming greasy.
FAQs
What is Yangnyeom Chicken?
Yangnyeom Chicken is a popular Korean dish that features fried chicken coated in a spicy and sweet sauce made primarily from gochujang, honey, and garlic.
Can I make Yangnyeom Chicken without deep frying?
Absolutely! You can bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes until crispy for a healthier version.
What do I serve with Yangnyeom Chicken?
This dish pairs well with steamed rice, pickled radishes, or a refreshing salad to balance the rich flavors.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! Yangnyeom sauce also goes great with tofu, pork, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.
How spicy is Yangnyeom Chicken?
The spice level can vary depending on how much gochujang you use. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste!
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Yangnyeom sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just heat it before coating the fried chicken.
What is rice flour used for?
Rice flour gives the chicken a lighter, crispier texture when fried. It’s often used in Asian cooking for this reason.
Is Yangnyeom Chicken gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and ensure the gochujang used is gluten-free.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Yangnyeom Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal taste.
Can I freeze Yangnyeom Chicken?
Yes! You can freeze the fried chicken before adding the sauce. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it and fry it again for crispiness!
Now that you have the perfect recipe for Yangnyeom Chicken, gather your ingredients and enjoy creating this delicious dish! Whether it’s for a family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress!
