Name: Korean Air Fryer Fried Chicken with Spicy Gochujang Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 8 pieces chicken tenders; 1 cup crushed corn flakes; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp pepper; 2 eggs; 1 tbsp avocado oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 stalks green onion, whites and greens separated; 2 tbsp gochujang; 3 tbsp honey; 3 tbsp ketchup; 2 tbsp mirin; 1 tbsp sesame oil; Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

If you adore crispy, flavorful fried chicken but want a lighter, bolder twist, this Korean Air Fryer Fried Chicken with Spicy Gochujang Sauce Recipe is going to win your heart immediately. It’s all about that irresistibly crunchy coating made from crushed corn flakes paired with a fiery and sweet gochujang sauce that dances on your tongue. The air fryer makes this recipe delightfully simple and healthier, while the sauce perfectly balances sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. Whether you’re craving an easy weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests with a crowd-pleaser, this Korean Air Fryer Fried Chicken with Spicy Gochujang Sauce Recipe comes together beautifully and tastes like something straight from your favorite Korean street food stall.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up photo shows a woman's hand holding a piece of raw chicken coated in golden, crunchy crumbs over a large silver bowl filled with the same crumb mixture. In the background, there is a white bowl with more raw pieces of chicken, all placed on a white marbled surface. The scene captures the moment of coating the chicken with crumbs, focusing on the texture and color contrast between the chicken and the crunchy crumbs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Korean Air Fryer Fried Chicken with Spicy Gochujang Sauce Recipe lies in its straightforward, essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: the crispy corn flakes create that unbeatable crunch, while the well-seasoned chicken and luscious sauce bring unforgettable layers of flavor and color that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Chicken tenders (8 pieces): Perfectly sized for even cooking and easy to coat thoroughly.
Crushed corn flakes (1 cup): Adds an irresistible crunch and golden color to the fried chicken.
Garlic powder (1 tbsp): Infuses a deep, savory aroma to the coating.
Paprika (1 tsp): Adds a mild smoky flavor and vibrant warmth.
Eggs (2): The glue that binds the corn flake coating firmly to the chicken.
Salt (1 tsp): Enhances every flavor in the dish.
Pepper (1 tsp): Adds a hint of gentle heat and depth.
Avocado oil (1 tbsp and spray): Neutral and healthy oil that crisps the chicken without overpowering the flavors.
Minced garlic (2 cloves): A punch of fragrant, savory goodness in the sauce.
Green onion (2 stalks, whites and greens separated): Whites add aroma to the sauce; greens become a fresh garnish.
Gochujang (2 tbsp): The star spicy Korean chili paste providing bold, complex heat.
Honey (3 tbsp): Sweetness to balance the spice and deepen the sauce.
Ketchup (3 tbsp): Adds tangy richness and helps create the sauce’s beautiful glaze.
Mirin (2 tbsp): A subtle sweetness and slight acidity that rounds out the flavor.
Sesame oil (1 tbsp): Toasty aroma that finishes the sauce perfectly.
Toasted sesame seeds: A nutty crunch sprinkled on top for extra texture and visual appeal.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Korean Air Fryer Fried Chicken with Spicy Gochujang Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a crispy finish right from the get-go. Meanwhile, in a shallow dish, crush the corn flakes until they resemble coarse crumbs and toss them with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This creates a flavor-packed, crunchy coating that clings beautifully to the chicken.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper. Dip each chicken tender thoroughly in the egg wash, then press it into the seasoned corn flakes, making sure every nook and cranny is coated. This double-dip method ensures an ultra-crispy exterior once air fried.

Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders

Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, spacing them apart to maximize crisping. Lightly spray with avocado oil to help achieve that golden finish. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until each piece is crispy and cooked through. The air fryer gives you all the crunch without the mess or excess oil of traditional frying.

Step 4: Prepare the Korean Style Sauce

While the chicken cooks, it’s time to whip up the vibrant sauce. Heat avocado oil in a saucepan over medium heat, then sauté minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions until fragrant and translucent. Stir in gochujang, honey, ketchup, mirin, and sesame oil, simmering gently until the sauce thickens just enough to stick to the chicken. Toasted sesame seeds stirred in last add a nutty crunch that’s classic to Korean dishes.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Once your chicken tenders are cooked, transfer them straight into the saucepan with the sauce. Toss gently so every tender is lavishly coated with that rich, spicy, and sweet glaze. Serve immediately, garnished with the green parts of the chopped green onions and extra sesame seeds for a fresh, vibrant finishing touch.

How to Serve Korean Air Fryer Fried Chicken with Spicy Gochujang Sauce Recipe

A white pan on a white marbled surface holds a dark red sauce filled with small bits and seeds. A pair of black and white tongs hold a bright orange-red piece of food, partially submerged in the thick sauce. The sauce looks slightly shiny and has a textured surface with visible spices and herbs. The background shows a stove with silver pots and pans. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly chopped green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds are more than just decoration—they add fresh crunch and a burst of color that make this dish irresistible. For an extra pop of freshness, a few sprigs of cilantro or thinly sliced red chili peppers add a gorgeous, bright contrast.

Side Dishes

This Korean Air Fryer Fried Chicken with Spicy Gochujang Sauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or sticky jasmine rice to soak up all the luscious sauce. For a crisp side, try a simple cucumber salad, pickled radish, or kimchi to bring a cool, tangy balance that complements the heat perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, serve the chicken tenders family-style on a large platter lined with fresh lettuce leaves. You can even transform this recipe into a Korean fried chicken taco by wrapping the tenders in soft tortillas topped with shredded cabbage and drizzled with creamy mayo. It’s unexpected and endlessly delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Korean Air Fryer Fried Chicken with Spicy Gochujang Sauce Recipe stays best when refrigerated in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 days, preserving the crispiness and bold flavors if handled properly.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, freeze the cooked, un-sauced chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a sealed freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Defrost thoroughly in the fridge before reheating and adding the sauce.

Reheating

To maintain that crispy texture, reheat leftovers in an air fryer or conventional oven rather than a microwave. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and crunchy again. Then toss with freshly warmed gochujang sauce for maximum flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other parts of the chicken?

Absolutely! While chicken tenders cook quickly and evenly, you can use wings or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they reach a safe internal temperature and remain juicy.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake these chicken tenders in a conventional oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, or shallow fry them in oil for a crispier traditional result.

How spicy is the gochujang sauce?

Gochujang has a moderate heat level with a sweet and savory undertone. The honey in the sauce balances the spice nicely, but you can adjust the amount of gochujang based on your preferred heat intensity.

Can I make the sauce vegan?

Yes! Simply swap honey for maple syrup or agave and use a vegan-friendly ketchup. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based and will still deliver that fantastic flavor.

What’s the best way to crush corn flakes?

Place them in a sealed zip-top bag and gently crush with a rolling pin or bottom of a heavy pan. You want them broken down but not too fine, preserving texture for maximum crunch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a fun twist on classic fried chicken that’s bursting with vibrant Korean flavors, don’t hesitate to try this Korean Air Fryer Fried Chicken with Spicy Gochujang Sauce Recipe. It’s easy, extremely satisfying, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Once you taste that crispy crunch smothered in warming, spicy-sweet sauce, you’ll understand why I’m so excited to share this dish with you.

Korean Air Fryer Fried Chicken with Spicy Gochujang Sauce Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need