As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling chicken filled the air, instantly transporting me to a bustling street market in Seoul. Today, I’m excited to share my Crispy Korean Chicken Bao Buns with Sweet and Spicy Glaze—a delectable dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. These fluffy bao buns envelop tender, crispy fried chicken, creating a beautifully balanced fusion of flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds. One of the best parts? They’re customizable! You can load them up with fresh veggies or your favorite sauces. Plus, they come together in just a few simple steps, making them ideal for both seasoned home chefs and busy food lovers alike. Are you ready to dive into this delicious journey of taste and texture? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Bao Buns

Unforgettable Flavor: The combination of crispy fried chicken, sweet and spicy glaze, and fluffy bao buns creates a taste explosion that will linger in your memory.

Customizable Delights: From crunchy veggies to zesty sauces, these bao buns offer endless filling options, allowing everyone to create their perfect bite.

Simple Steps: With an easy-to-follow process, even novice cooks can whip up these mouthwatering treats and impress their friends.

Perfect Party Treat: Whether it’s a casual gathering or a festive celebration, these bao buns will steal the show and keep your guests coming back for more.

Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time! You can freeze the buns and steam them on demand, ensuring you’re always ready to satisfy a craving.

Elevate your dining experience with this Korean Fried Chicken Bao Bun recipe, and explore other delicious options like Korean Pork Chops for a full fusion feast!

Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns Ingredients

For the Bao Buns
• All-purpose flour – Provides the structure for fluffy bao buns; consider whole wheat for a healthier alternative.
• Caster sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness to the dough; granulated sugar works just as well.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the buns.
• Instant dried yeast – Causes the dough to rise beautifully; active dry yeast can also be used if you proof it first.
• Full-fat milk – Ensures moisture and richness; substitute with plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
• Warm water – Activates the yeast; keep the temperature between 100°F to 110°F for optimal results.
• Unsalted butter – Adds a rich flavor; use dairy-free margarine for a lactose-free option.

For the Chicken Filling
• Chicken breasts – The star of this Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns recipe, cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Buttermilk – Tenderizes and adds flavor to the chicken; mix regular milk with vinegar or lemon juice to create a substitute.
• Salt, white pepper, garlic salt – Seasonings that deepen the marinade’s flavor.

For the Crispy Coating
• Crispy coating flour mixture (all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, garlic salt, celery salt, dried thyme, paprika, baking powder, chili flakes) – Ensures a crunchy texture on the fried chicken; feel free to adjust spices to your taste.
• Vegetable oil – Ideal for deep frying, but peanut oil adds a delightful flavor twist.

For the Sweet and Spicy Glaze
• Gochujang paste – Introduces a spicy kick to the glaze.
• Honey – Adds sweetness to balance the spice; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
• Soy sauce – Provides umami depth to the glaze mixture.
• Garlic, ginger – Vibrant aromatics that elevate the glaze’s complexity.

For Toppings
• Green onion – Fresh garnish that adds a pop of color and flavor; can be mixed with other toppings.
• Lettuce/cabbage – Crunchy freshness to complement the savory filling; consider using your favorite leafy greens.
• Sesame seeds – A crunchy finish with nutty undertones for an authentic touch.
• Korean spicy mayo – A delicious condiment enhancing each bite; substitute with a sriracha-mayo mix if needed.

Dive into these Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns, and find the perfect combination of flavors that will leave you and your guests craving more!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of caster sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of instant dried yeast. In a separate jug, combine 1 cup of warm milk (100°F to 110°F), 1/4 cup of warm water, and 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, kneading for about 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 90 minutes or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
While the dough rises, prepare the chicken filling for the Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns. In a large bowl, mix 1 pound of chopped chicken breasts with 1 cup of buttermilk, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of white pepper, and 1 teaspoon of garlic salt. Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to tenderize.

Step 3: Shape Bao Buns
After the dough has risen, transfer it onto a floured surface and gently knead for a minute to deflate. Divide the dough into 20 equal pieces and roll each piece into a smooth ball. Flatten each ball into an oval shape, brush lightly with olive oil, and fold it in half. Arrange the shaped buns on parchment paper squares and let them rise again for about 1 hour until they puff up slightly.

Step 4: Fry Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. Prepare the crispy coating by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour with salt, pepper, and other spices as desired (including garlic salt, paprika, and chili flakes). Coat the marinated chicken pieces in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Carefully place the chicken into the hot oil and fry for 3-5 minutes in batches until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare Glaze
In a saucepan, combine 2 tablespoons of gochujang paste, 1/4 cup of honey, 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger. Simmer the mixture over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly. Once thickened, toss the fried chicken pieces in the glaze to coat them evenly.

Step 6: Steam Buns
To cook the bao buns, set up a steamer pot over boiling water. Place the buns on the parchment squares into the steamer basket, ensuring they have space to expand. Cover and steam the buns for approximately 10 minutes or until they are fluffy and have a glossy appearance. Remove them from the steamer and cover with a clean kitchen towel to keep warm.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve
To assemble your Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns, slice the steamed buns open and fill each one with a piece of glazed chicken. Add your favorite toppings like sliced green onions, shredded lettuce or cabbage, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve immediately for the best texture, allowing your guests to customize their bao buns with additional sauces if desired.

Expert Tips for Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns

Marinate Longer: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the buttermilk to tenderize the meat effectively, infusing it with flavor.
Oil Temperature Check: Ensure the oil reaches 350°F before frying. Using an instant-read thermometer prevents greasy chicken and ensures a crispy coating.
Gentle Shaping: When shaping the bao buns, handle the dough gently to maintain air pockets. This step is crucial for achieving the desired fluffiness in your Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns.
Steamer Technique: Use a double-layer steamer pan for efficiency. This allows you to steam multiple buns at once, saving time during preparation.
Customize Filling: Feel free to experiment with different toppings, like pickled vegetables or herbs, to enhance the freshness and flavor of your bao buns.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture, fill and serve the bao buns right after steaming. The fresh ingredients will shine when enjoyed at their peak!

Make Ahead Options

These Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the bao dough and chicken marinade up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, simply shape the buns and let them rise for about an hour before steaming. For the chicken, marinate it the night before, then fry and glaze right before assembling for the best texture. To maintain quality, steam the buns freshly for that light, fluffy bite, ensuring each bun remains just as delightful as the first!

Variations & Substitutions for Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns

Feel free to get creative with these bao buns, allowing your taste buds to explore delightful twists and turns!

Dairy-Free: Substitute full-fat milk with any plant-based milk like almond or coconut for a lactose-free version.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the bao buns softer and just as delicious for those with gluten sensitivities.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the filling for an extra spicy surprise that will awaken your senses.
Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for crispy tempeh, marinated in soy sauce, to relive the crispiness and flavors without the meat.
Herb Infusion: Mix chopped fresh herbs, such as cilantro or basil, into the bao dough for added fragrance and flavor, creating an aromatic twist.
Sweet Twist: Mix shredded coconut or finely chopped fruits into the glaze for a sweet fruity flavor to complement the savory filling beautifully.
Crunchy Toppings: Boost textural contrast by adding crushed peanuts or fried onions as a topping. The extra crunch elevates the experience splendidly.
Oriental Touch: Incorporate pickled ginger or sautéed kimchi as a filling or topping to deepen the Asian flavors in each bite.

These variations offer something for everyone! Transform your meal experience by pairing these bao buns with Asian Chicken Cranberry Salad or enjoy them alongside a warm bowl of Greek Lemon Chicken Soup to complement the fusion flavors.

What to Serve with Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns

Elevate your meal experience with vibrant sides and refreshing drinks that beautifully complement these fluffy, savory bites.

Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crunchy texture of coleslaw pairs perfectly with the warm bao buns, offering a delightful contrast to the crispy chicken.
Steamed Vegetables: Bright and fresh veggies like bok choy or broccoli add color and healthful elements to your meal, balancing the richness of the chicken.
Spicy Kimchi: Bold and flavorful kimchi elevates your bao buns by adding a tangy, spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the glaze.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a satisfying crunch with a hint of sweetness to contrast the savory chicken, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
Zesty Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad brightens up the meal while its crispness cuts through the richness of the bao.
Chilled Iced Tea: A refreshing iced tea infused with lemon and mint offers a cooling balance that enhances the spicy notes of the fried chicken.
Draft Beer: Light lagers or fruity ales perfectly complement the flavors of the baos, elevating the party atmosphere while providing a refreshing sip.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For dessert, creamy vanilla ice cream drizzled with a touch of honey is an indulgent and delightful way to end your meal on a sweet note.

Storage Tips for Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns

Fridge: Store leftover bao buns in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while preventing them from drying out.

Freezer: Freeze cooked bao buns in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen by steaming for about 14 minutes until heated through.

Reheating: To warm leftover buns, steam them for 5-7 minutes. This restores their fluffy texture and complements the Korean Fried Chicken filling beautifully.

Tip: If preparing in batches, steam the dough without fillings before freezing for easy assembly later!

Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe and fresh ingredients for my bao buns?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, pick high-quality ingredients. Look for all-purpose flour that feels soft and fine, and make sure your instant dried yeast is not expired for optimal rise. If you’re using fresh chicken breasts, they should be firm and pink without any dark spots. Always select milk that is fresh and free from an off odor.

How should I store leftover bao buns?
To keep your leftover Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns fresh, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, wrap the buns tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag; they can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Can I freeze the bao buns? If so, how?
Very! Freezing your Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns is simple. After they are fully cooked, place them on a parchment-lined tray to freeze in a single layer. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply steam them from frozen for about 14 minutes until heated through, and they’ll taste freshly made!

What should I do if my bao buns don’t rise properly?
If your bao buns don’t rise as expected, check if your yeast is active by dissolving it in warm water and sugar. The yeast should foam after about 5-10 minutes; if it doesn’t, this means it might be inactive. Additionally, ensure that your dough is placed in a warm environment to rise. If all else fails, a longer rising time might help—give it an extra boost by covering it and placing it in a slightly warmed oven (turned off).

Are these bao buns suitable for special dietary needs?
Yes! You can easily customize these Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns to accommodate dietary restrictions. For a gluten-free option, try using a gluten-free flour blend. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, substitute regular milk with almond or soy milk, and use dairy-free margarine in place of butter. Just be sure to double-check the labels on all condiments used in the glaze for hidden allergens.

What toppings can I add for a unique twist?
The more the merrier! Besides classic toppings like green onions and shredded lettuce, you can experiment with pickled vegetables, spicy kimchi, or even avocado slices for creaminess. Consider adding roasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of sriracha for that extra zing—making each bao bun uniquely yours!