The aroma of crispy, savory chicken wafting through the kitchen is undeniably tempting, and nothing hits the spot quite like Korean fried chicken. This version is made in an air fryer, resulting in tender, juicy chicken tenders enveloped in a gluten-free coating that becomes perfectly crispy without the excess oil. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also full of flavor thanks to the mouthwatering Korean style sauce.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, game days, or casual gatherings with loved ones. You can even prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a quick cook when you’re ready to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The air fryer creates a wonderfully crisp texture without deep frying.
- It’s a quick recipe, ready in just 30 minutes.
- The homemade Korean style sauce adds rich, unique flavors.
- Chicken tenders are juicy on the inside while perfectly crispy on the outside.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for a delicious outcome:
For the Chicken Tenders
- 8 pieces chicken tenders
- 1 cup crushed corn flakes
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
For the Korean Style Sauce
- 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
Gochujang can be found in Asian markets or the international aisle.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken tenders can be replaced with chicken wings.
- Corn flakes can be swapped for panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Gochujang can be substituted with sriracha for a spicier kick.
- Use any neutral oil, such as canola, instead of avocado oil.
How to Make It
Here’s how to prepare this delicious Korean fried chicken in your air fryer:
Prepare the Chicken Tenders:
- Season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, ensuring even coating. This step will enhance the flavor throughout.
Air Fry the Chicken Tenders:
- Dip each seasoned chicken tender into the beaten eggs, then roll in crushed corn flakes until fully coated. This creates a wonderful texture that helps the chicken stay juicy.
Prepare the Korean Style Sauce:
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Heat avocado oil in a saucepan over medium heat and sauté minced garlic and the white parts of the green onion until fragrant, about 1 minute. This will infuse the oil with flavor.
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Combine gochujang, honey, ketchup, mirin, and sesame oil into the saucepan, whisking until it simmers slightly. This will create the rich, spicy-sweet sauce that enhances the chicken.
Coat the Chicken Tenders:
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Cook the chicken tenders in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway. Ensure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
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Toss the crispy chicken tenders in the prepared Korean style sauce just before serving. This step gives a heavenly glaze to the chicken.
Serve:
- Garnish with the green parts of the green onion and toasted sesame seeds. Plate and enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite.
How to Store It
Fridge: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
- Always preheat the air fryer for the best crispiness.
- Adjust the gochujang according to your spice preference for mild or hot flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of pickled vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Serve over steamed rice for a fulfilling dish.
- Enjoy with a light salad to complement the rich flavors.
