Korean Fried Chicken (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

Ingredients

• 10 oz chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 4 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Oil for frying
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 4 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce (tamari sauce)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 4 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Gochujang chili paste
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar

Instructions

1. 1

   Marinate Chicken Pieces: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl. Add the rice vinegar and ginger paste, then mix thoroughly so every piece is coated. Let the chicken marinate for 10 minutes to absorb the flavor.

2. 2

   Coat Marinated Chicken: In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch, ground black pepper, granulated garlic and salt. Mix well. Add the marinated chicken and coat each piece evenly, pressing lightly so each piece is coated with the cornstarch mixture.

3. 3

   Pan Fry Chicken: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Fry for about 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes.

4. 4

   Fry Again: Increase the heat to high and add a little more oil if needed. Return the chicken to the pan and fry for an additional 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until deeply golden and very crispy.

5. 5

   Prepare Sauce: In a small saucepan, add all sauce ingredients (minced garlic, gluten-free soy sauce, sesame oil, ketchup, chili paste, lime juice and light brown sugar). Stir until smooth, then bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool for about 2 minutes so it becomes glossy and sticky.

6. 6

   Toss Fried Chicken with Sauce: Add the fried chicken to the sauce and toss quickly until each piece is fully coated.

7. 7

   Garnish & Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds, chili flakes, and sliced green onions if desired.