Name: Sweet & Spicy Korean Chicken Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup cold water; Vegetable oil, for frying; 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

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Sweet & Spicy Korean Chicken Bites are bite-sized pieces of crispy chicken coated in a bold, sticky sauce made with gochujang, soy sauce, garlic, and honey. This Korean-inspired dish is packed with flavor, offering the perfect balance of sweetness, heat, and umami in every tender morsel.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chicken bites are bursting with flavor and have an irresistible texture. The crisp coating holds up under a generous glaze that’s both spicy and sweet. Whether served as a main dish or appetizer, they’re guaranteed to impress. Plus, they’re quick to make and easy to scale for parties or family meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Cornstarch or potato starch
All-purpose flour
Salt and pepper
Garlic powder
Oil for frying
Gochujang (Korean red chili paste)
Soy sauce
Honey or brown sugar
Rice vinegar
Garlic (minced)
Ginger (grated)
Sesame oil
Green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
In a bowl, mix equal parts flour and cornstarch. Dredge chicken pieces in the mixture.
Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
In a separate saucepan, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Toss fried chicken pieces in the sauce until fully coated.
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use tofu or cauliflower for a vegetarian version.
Add a tablespoon of ketchup or hoisin sauce for a different flavor depth.
Make it spicier by adding Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) or sriracha.
For a lighter version, bake or air-fry the chicken instead of deep-frying.
Add a splash of orange juice for a citrus twist in the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Microwaving is convenient but may result in softer texture. The sauce can be made ahead and stored separately for 1 week.

FAQs

What is gochujang?

Gochujang is a Korean red chili paste made from fermented soybeans, rice, and red pepper. It’s spicy, slightly sweet, and rich in umami.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, both work well, but thighs are typically juicier and more flavorful.

Is this dish very spicy?

It has a medium level of heat, but the spice can be adjusted by using more or less gochujang.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch, and ensure the gochujang is gluten-free.

Can I air fry the chicken instead of frying in oil?

Yes, coat the chicken and cook in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

How long does the sauce last?

The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container.

What side dishes go well with this?

Serve with steamed rice, pickled vegetables, or a crisp cucumber salad.

Can I double the sauce for extra coating or dipping?

Absolutely. The sauce can be easily scaled up and used as a dip or drizzle.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

No marinating is required, but you can for added flavor if desired (30 minutes in soy sauce and garlic is enough).

Can this be served cold?

While best hot, it can also be served cold as a lunchbox option or snack.

Conclusion

Sweet & Spicy Korean Chicken Bites deliver bold flavors and satisfying crunch in a quick, approachable recipe. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, a party appetizer, or a flavorful snack, these bites are a hit every time. Customize the spice level to your liking and enjoy a dish that captures the delicious essence of Korean cuisine.

Sweet & Spicy Korean Chicken Bites

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Sweet & Spicy Korean Chicken Bites are crispy, bite-sized pieces of chicken tossed in a sticky gochujang-based sauce that delivers bold heat with a touch of sweetness.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Deep Frying
Cuisine: Korean
Diet: Halal

Instructions

In a medium bowl, mix cornstarch, flour, salt, and pepper. Gradually add cold water and whisk until smooth to form a batter.
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
Dip chicken pieces into the batter and fry in batches until golden and crispy, about 5–6 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
In a small saucepan, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, and ginger. Simmer over low heat for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
Toss fried chicken bites in the sauce until evenly coated.
Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.