Korean Popcorn Chicken, also known as Dakgangjeong, is a crispy, bite-sized fried chicken dish coated in a sweet, spicy, and savory sauce.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup milk
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

For Garnishing:

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. In another bowl, whisk the egg with milk. Coat the chicken in cornstarch, dip into the egg mixture, and coat with cornstarch again for extra crispiness.
2. Fry the Chicken: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Drain on a paper towel.
3. Make the Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine gochujang, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Coat the Chicken: Toss the fried chicken pieces in the sauce until evenly coated.
5. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 600mg

The Popularity of Korean Popcorn Chicken

Korean Popcorn Chicken, or Dakgangjeong, has gained immense popularity worldwide due to its irresistible combination of crispy texture and bold flavors. Originating as a popular Korean street food, it has now become a staple in many restaurants and home kitchens. This dish is characterized by its ultra-crispy chicken bites coated in a thick, sticky, and flavorful sauce that balances sweet, spicy, and savory notes. One of the reasons this dish is so loved is its versatility. It can be served as an appetizer, a main dish with rice, or even as a party snack. The small, bite-sized pieces make it convenient to eat, and the rich sauce makes every bite flavorful and satisfying.

Why Korean Popcorn Chicken Stands Out

Unlike traditional fried chicken, Korean Popcorn Chicken is known for its signature double-frying technique. This method ensures that the chicken stays crispy even after being coated in the sauce. The combination of cornstarch coating and high-heat frying results in an incredibly crunchy texture that holds up well. Another standout feature of this dish is the sauce. The use of gochujang (Korean red chili paste) gives it a deep, spicy flavor, while honey and brown sugar provide the perfect balance of sweetness. The addition of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil enhances the umami taste, making it an explosion of flavors in every bite.

Cultural Significance of Dakgangjeong

Dakgangjeong is deeply rooted in Korean food culture. It is commonly found in street food markets, often served in a paper cup with wooden skewers for easy snacking. The dish is also a popular anju (food served with alcohol), commonly paired with Korean beer or soju. Traditionally, Dakgangjeong was prepared as a special dish for festive occasions and celebrations. Over time, it has become a household favorite, enjoyed by families and food lovers across the globe.

How to Make the Perfectly Crispy Chicken

The key to achieving the perfect texture in Korean Popcorn Chicken is following a few important steps:

• Use Cornstarch for Coating – Cornstarch creates a lighter, crispier crust than flour, giving the chicken a satisfying crunch.
• Double Frying Technique – The first fry cooks the chicken, while the second fry crisps up the exterior, ensuring a crunchy texture that lasts.
• Maintain the Right Oil Temperature – Keeping the oil around 350°F (175°C) ensures even frying without making the chicken greasy.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan – Frying in small batches prevents the oil temperature from dropping and results in evenly cooked chicken.

Variations of Korean Popcorn Chicken

One of the best things about this dish is that it can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some popular variations:

• Extra Spicy Version – Adding more gochujang or chili flakes enhances the heat level for those who love spice.
• Sweet and Tangy Style – Incorporating pineapple juice or adding more vinegar can give the sauce a tangier taste.
• Cheesy Popcorn Chicken – Some variations include a cheesy dip or a light dusting of parmesan cheese for extra richness.
• Baked or Air-Fried Option – For a healthier version, the chicken can be baked or cooked in an air fryer instead of deep-frying.

Serving Suggestions for Korean Popcorn Chicken

While Korean Popcorn Chicken is delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary sides and beverages can enhance the dining experience.

• With Steamed Rice – The sauce-coated chicken pairs perfectly with plain rice, balancing out the flavors.
• Alongside Pickled Radish – A common Korean side dish, pickled radish (danmuji) helps cleanse the palate and adds a refreshing contrast.
• As a Bar Snack – Served with beer or soju, it makes for a great drinking snack.
• With a Side of Kimchi – The fermented, tangy flavors of kimchi complement the richness of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Korean Popcorn Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, proper storage and reheating methods can help maintain its quality.

• Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating in an Oven – Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
• Air Fryer Method – Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for the best texture.
• Avoid Microwaving – Microwaving can make the chicken soggy instead of crispy.

Why You Should Make Korean Popcorn Chicken at Home

There are several reasons why homemade Korean Popcorn Chicken is better than takeout or store-bought versions:

• Control Over Ingredients – Making it at home allows you to adjust the spice level, sweetness, and saltiness to your preference.
• No Preservatives or Additives – Homemade versions are free from artificial flavor enhancers, making them a healthier choice.
• Cost-Effective – Preparing it at home is much cheaper than ordering from a restaurant.
• Customizable Portions – You can make as much or as little as needed without worrying about leftovers going to waste.

Conclusion

Korean Popcorn Chicken is a dish that perfectly balances crispy texture, bold flavors, and irresistible sweetness and spice. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, it offers a satisfying crunch with every bite. By following the right cooking techniques and using high-quality ingredients, you can easily recreate this popular dish at home. Making Korean Popcorn Chicken from scratch allows for endless customization, ensuring that you can tailor it to your personal taste.