The aroma of sizzling chicken filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to the tropical shores of Hawaii. This Hawaiian Korean Fried Chicken combines the crispy textures and savory notes of Korean cuisine with the sweet, vibrant essence of Hawaiian flavors. Drenched in a mouthwatering sweet chili garlic sauce, this dish is not just about satisfying your taste buds—it’s also a fun and quick way to impress guests at your next gathering. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a game day feast, this crispy chicken is sure to steal the show. Ready to dive into this flavor-packed experience and create a culinary fusion so delightful, you’ll want to make it again and again?
What Makes This Chicken So Irresistible?
Crispy Perfection: Each bite of Hawaiian Korean Fried Chicken delivers a satisfyingly crunchy coating, thanks to the double-frying technique that ensures maximum crispiness.
Sweet and Spicy Harmony: The rich sweet chili garlic sauce beautifully balances the heat and sweetness, making it a flavor explosion that leaves your taste buds dancing.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dish is perfect for serving guests or family, transforming any meal into a festive occasion, whether paired with tropical fruits or a simple green salad.
Time-Saving Flavor: Quick to prepare, you can whip it up for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings without sacrificing quality or taste; for similar quick meals, try the vibrant Garlic Chicken Gnocchi or the tangy Tzatziki Chicken Salad.
Versatile Ingredients: Easily modify the recipe to fit your dietary needs—swap chicken for tofu for a vegetarian option or adjust the spice levels to cater to your palate.
Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken Ingredients
• Discover the perfect blend of flavors!
For the Chicken
- Chicken – 2 lbs boneless, skinless breasts or thighs are essential for tender, juicy bites.
- Potato Starch – 3/4 cup adds an extra crunch; can be substituted with cornstarch for similar results.
- Garlic Powder – 1 tsp enhances the flavor; fresh garlic can offer a bolder taste if preferred.
- Salt – 1 tsp is essential for seasoning and enhancing other flavors.
For the Sweet Chili Garlic Sauce
- Shoyu (Soy Sauce) – 1/2 cup provides the umami richness; swap with tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Green Onions – 1/2 cup, diced, adds freshness and a delightful crunch in every bite.
- Brown Sugar – 1/3 cup balances the dish with sweetness; honey works well as a substitute too.
- Chili Garlic Sauce – 2 Tbsp brings that delightful heat; feel free to adjust the amount to your spice preference.
- Sesame Seeds – 1 Tbsp offers a nutty flavor and is perfect for garnishing.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced for boldness in sauce flavor.
- Sesame Oil – 2 tsp enriches the sauce; olive oil can work as an alternative if necessary.
Embrace the excitement of cooking, as this Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken brings an extraordinary taste adventure right to your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken
Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by cutting the boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken with potato starch, garlic powder, and salt until every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if time allows, to achieve the perfect crunch in your Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken.
Step 2: Heat Oil
In a heavy-bottomed pan or a deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 175°C (350°F), ensuring there’s about 3/4 inch depth of oil for frying. Use a thermometer to confirm the oil temperature, as this is key to achieving crispy chicken. Once heated, the oil should shimmer, indicating it’s ready for frying.
Step 3: First Fry
Carefully drop the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the chicken for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they are lightly browned. Keep an eye on them, as visual doneness is essential; you want a golden hue but not too dark. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 4: Rest & Refry
Allow the chicken to rest for 1 to 2 minutes, letting the steam escape while maintaining heat. After resting, lower the heat slightly and return the chicken to the hot oil for a second fry, cooking them for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until they turn golden brown and ultra-crispy. Drain excess oil again on fresh paper towels.
Step 5: Make Sauce
In a separate bowl, prepare the sweet chili garlic sauce by whisking together shoyu, diced green onions, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, minced garlic, sesame oil, and sesame seeds. Combine thoroughly until the sugar dissolves, creating a vibrant sauce that will complement your Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken beautifully.
Step 6: Coat Chicken
Once the chicken is perfectly fried and crispy, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the prepared sweet chili garlic sauce over the hot chicken, tossing gently to ensure each piece is evenly coated in the vibrant mixture. This step brings your Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken to life with a burst of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
Make Ahead Options
These Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken pieces are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can coat the chicken in potato starch, garlic powder, and salt, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to intensify and maintain crispiness. The sweet chili garlic sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the marinated chicken as directed—first for 8-10 minutes, then refry for an additional 2-3 minutes for that irresistible crunch. This prep-ahead method ensures your Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken is just as delicious, with minimal weeknight hassle!
Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your Hawaiian Korean Fried Chicken your own and enjoy a taste adventure!
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Tofu Swap: Replace chicken with tofu for a vegetarian-friendly alternative. Just ensure the tofu is pressed to achieve the best texture.
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Extra Heat: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter for those who love a spicy kick. This little adjustment can elevate the flavor profile beautifully!
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Pineapple Boost: Mix in crushed pineapple with the sauce for a sweet, tangy twist that dances on your palate. It’s a perfect nod to tropical flavors!
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Gluten-Free Option: Use corn flour instead of potato starch for a gluten-free crispy coating that still delivers that satisfying crunch. You can also try tamari in place of soy sauce.
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Crispy Coconut Coating: For a tropical flair, toss the chicken with shredded coconut before frying. This adds a delightful texture and irresistible sweetness.
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Alternative Sauces: Experiment with a teriyaki or mango sauce for an entirely new flavor profile. It creates an unexpected yet delicious fusion!
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Savory Veggie Addition: Steam or sauté mixed vegetables such as bell peppers and snap peas to serve alongside the chicken for a nutritious balance. They add color and a fresh crunch!
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Crispier Version: For an extra crispy finish, double-dip the chicken in the batter before frying. This guarantees every bite has a satisfying crunch.
After you’ve enjoyed this delicious dish, you might want to try pairing it with a refreshing Tzatziki Chicken Salad or serve it alongside the tasty Garlic Chicken Gnocchi for more delightful culinary experiences!
Expert Tips for Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken
Crispy Coating: Ensure the chicken is fully covered in the dry batter and chilled before frying for optimal crispiness.
Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to check the oil; too low will result in greasy chicken, while too high can burn the coating.
Double Fry Advantage: Allow the chicken to rest briefly after the first fry—this helps achieve perfect crispness during the second fry.
Sauté for Flavor: For a bolder sauce, consider sautéing minced garlic in sesame oil before adding other sauce ingredients, enhancing the depth of flavor.
Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the chili garlic sauce to your taste—start with a smaller amount and add more heat as desired for your Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken.
How to Store and Freeze Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate the chicken from the sauce to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat the chicken in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes to regain its crispiness.
Defrosting: When ready to enjoy, defrost the frozen chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating, ensuring it remains tasty and safe!
What to Serve with Hawaiian Korean Fried Chicken
Prepare to elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that enhance this crispy, flavor-packed dish.
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Tropical Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of pineapple, mango, and papaya adds freshness and a juicy contrast to the savory chicken. This light option refreshes your palate and embodies the spirit of Hawaii!
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Steamed White Rice: Fluffy rice is the perfect complement to soak up the luscious sweet chili garlic sauce, enhancing each bite of chicken with its subtle taste and texture.
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Kimchi Slaw: The crunch of a zesty kimchi slaw introduces tanginess and acidity, balancing the richness of the fried chicken while providing an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
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Crispy Garlic Noodles: Tossed in garlic and sesame oil, these noodles add a delectable umami touch and a comforting, chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the crispy chicken.
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Hawaiian Mac Salad: This creamy classic provides a cool contrast to the spice of the chicken, making it a comforting and nostalgic side dish that guests will adore.
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Mango Lassi: A sweet, creamy mango lassi adds a refreshing touch, helping to tame the heat of the dish while bringing in tropical flavors, creating a perfect fusion drink.
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Pineapple Coconut Sorbet: For a light dessert, consider whipping up a refreshing sorbet, which cleanses the palate and concludes the meal on a sweet, tropical note.
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Sparking Water with Lime: Energizing and refreshing, this drink keeps your palate clean and emphasizes the delightful fusion flavors in each bite of Hawaiian Korean Fried Chicken.
Hawaiian Korean Fried Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for boneless, skinless breasts or thighs that have a pink color and a fresh smell. Avoid pieces with dark spots or an off odor, as these indicate spoilage. I usually prefer thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work just as well!
How should I store leftovers of Hawaiian Korean Fried Chicken?
Very! To store any leftovers, use an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate the chicken from the sauce to keep that delightful crispiness intact. This will help maintain the quality and flavor for your next meal.
Can I freeze this Hawaiian Korean Fried Chicken?
Of course! To freeze the chicken, first, place the cooked pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
What should I do if my chicken isn’t crispy enough?
If your chicken isn’t crispy, it might be due to the oil temperature being too low during frying. Make sure to use a thermometer to check that the oil is at 175°C (350°F) before adding the chicken. Additionally, ensure each piece is well-coated in the starch mixture and consider double frying for extra crunch!
Is this recipe suitable for someone with gluten allergies?
Yes! To make this Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular shoyu (soy sauce) and ensure any batter ingredients are gluten-free. It’s a great way to enjoy this flavorful dish without worry, and trust me, you won’t miss the gluten at all!
Crispy Hawaiian Style Korean Fried Chicken You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cutting the boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces, tossing with potato starch, garlic powder, and salt. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Heat vegetable oil to 175°C (350°F) in a heavy-bottomed pan, ensuring about 3/4 inch depth for frying.
- Carefully drop coated chicken into hot oil and fry for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly browned. Transfer to paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Let the chicken rest for 1 to 2 minutes, then return to the oil for a second fry for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare the sweet chili garlic sauce by whisking shoyu, green onions, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and sesame seeds until combined.
- Transfer fried chicken to a bowl, drizzle with the sauce, and toss gently to coat each piece. Serve immediately.