NBA

Homemade Cheesecake Factory’s Korean Fried Chicken Recipe

Have you ever taken that first bite of Cheesecake Factory’s Korean Fried Chicken and thought, “I need this recipe”? Well, you’re not alone. There’s something undeniably magical about that crispy exterior, juicy interior, and the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. I’ve been on a mission to recreate this dish in my kitchen, and I’m this close to nailing it.

What Is Cheesecake Factory’s Korean Fried Chicken?

The Cheesecake Factory’s Korean Fried Chicken is a dish inspired by Korean flavors. It typically features crispy fried chicken wings or pieces that are coated in a sweet, spicy glaze made with ingredients like gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.

Ingredients:

For The Chicken:

  • 2 lbs chicken wings or drumettes (you can also use chicken thighs or other pieces if preferred)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk (for marinating)

For The Korean Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 2-3 scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

For Frying:

  • Vegetable oil (or another neutral oil) for frying

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Marinate: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight. This helps to tenderize and flavor the chicken.
  2. Prepare the Flour Mixture: In a big bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken from the buttermilk and let excess drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly. Shake off any excess flour.

Fry The Chicken:

    1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). You need enough oil to submerge the chicken pieces.
    2. Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and crispy, about 8-10 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
    3. Remove the chicken with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

    Prepare The Korean Glaze:

      1. Make the glaze: While the chicken is frying, make the glaze, In a medium saucepan, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar.
      2. Cook: Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
      3. Glaze the Chicken: Toss the fried chicken pieces in the Korean glaze until well coated. If you prefer a lighter coating, you can also brush the glaze on.
      4. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the glazed chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced scallions.

        Tips:

        • Double Frying: For extra crispiness, consider double frying the chicken. Fry the pieces once, let them rest for a few minutes, then fry them again for a couple of minutes.
        • Oil Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature to ensure it stays around 350°F. If the temperature drops too much, the chicken can become greasy.
        • Glaze Consistency: If the glaze is too thick, you can thin it with water or more rice vinegar. If it’s too thin, let it cook a bit longer to reduce.
        • Serving Suggestions: Korean Fried Chicken pairs well with pickled vegetables, steamed rice, or a simple salad to balance the rich flavors.

        What To Serve With

        A Classic Korean Side:

        • Steamed Rice: This is a staple in Korean cuisine and provides a neutral base for the bold flavors of the Cheesecake Factory’s Korean Fried Chicken.  
        • Kimchi: The tangy and spicy kick of kimchi is the perfect balance to the crispy chicken.
        • Cucumber Salad: A refreshing and light side dish that cuts through the richness of the Cheesecake Factory’s Korean Fried Chicken.

        For A Hearty Meal:

        • Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado adds a luxurious element to the dish.
        • Mushrooms: Sautéed or grilled mushrooms bring a meaty texture and earthy flavor.  

        For A Flavor Explosion:

        • Cilantro and Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of these adds a burst of fresh flavor.
        • Spicy Korean BBQ Sauce: For those who crave extra heat, serve this on the side for dipping.

        Health Benefits

        Chicken as A Protein Source

        • High-Quality Protein: Chicken, particularly the white meat parts like wings or breast, is a good source of high-quality protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health.
        • Amino Acids: Chicken provides critical amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own, which are vital for various bodily functions, including hormone production and enzyme activity.

        Korean Glaze Ingredients

        • Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste): This ingredient offers potential health benefits due to its fermentation process. It can contain beneficial probiotics that support gut health. Additionally, gochujang provides capsaicin, which has been linked to metabolism-boosting effects and may help with weight management.
        • Garlic: Garlic is known for its antioxidant properties and potential to support cardiovascular health. It has been linked to reduced blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
        • Ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may aid digestion and support the immune system.
        • Sesame Seeds: Rich in healthy fats, sesame seeds provide a good source of vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. They also contain lignans, which may have antioxidant effects.

        Potential Benefits Of The Accompaniments

        • Pickled Vegetables: When included, pickled vegetables add fiber and beneficial bacteria (if they are fermented), which can aid digestion and contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.
        • Steamed Rice: While high in carbohydrates, rice provides energy and is often fortified with nutrients. Opting for brown rice or adding vegetables can enhance its nutritional value.
        • Asian-style Slaw: Typically made with fresh vegetables, slaw can be a good source of vitamins and minerals. A light, vinegar-based dressing can add flavor without excess calories.

        Balanced Approach

        • Portion Control: To make the meal healthier, consider controlling portions and balancing the fried chicken with plenty of vegetables and whole grains. This helps ensure a well-rounded intake of nutrients.
        • Cooking Methods: While the chicken is traditionally fried, you can make a healthier version by baking or air-frying to reduce the amount of added fats and calories.

        Final Thoughts

        Cheesecake Factory’s Korean Fried Chicken is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavor that merges crispy, savory goodness with the bold, tangy notes of Korean cuisine. Each bite delivers a delightful crunch followed by the sweet and spicy punch of its signature glaze—a true testament to the culinary creativity that the Cheesecake Factory is known for.

        More Meat Recipes:

        [penci_recipe]

        Related Posts

        Post Comment

        You May Have Missed