best korean air fried chicken using convection oven

Unlike other models that struggle to evenly air fry thick pieces or maintain consistent temperature, the Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer & Convection Oven excels at delivering crispy, evenly cooked Korean-style fried chicken every time. Having tested it firsthand, I was impressed with how its super convection and Element iQ System precisely direct heat—no cold spots, even with larger batches, and crispy skin without overcooking the inside. It’s a real game-changer for achieving restaurant-quality results at home.

This oven’s 13 versatile cooking functions, including air fry, roast, and dehydrate, make it perfect for Korean fried chicken recipes that need that perfect crunch and tender inside. Its large capacity, fitting multiple chicken pieces or even a whole chicken, plus the easy LCD interface for accurate timing, truly puts it ahead of the competition. I highly recommend this for anyone serious about homemade Korean fried chicken—trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Top Recommendation: Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer & Convection Oven

Why We Recommend It: This model combines super convection technology with Element iQ’s precise temperature control, ensuring fast, even cooking and crispy results. Its 13 functions—including air fry, roast, and dehydrator—offer unmatched versatility. The large interior easily handles multiple batches or large pieces, making it ideal for Korean fried chicken. Its digital interface simplifies cooking, so perfect results are almost guaranteed. The advanced heat distribution and multi-functionality make it the top pick after thorough testing against other options.

Best korean air fried chicken using convection oven: Our Top 5 Picks

• Ninja | French Door Premier | Air Fryer, Convection Oven, – Best Value
• KitchenAid Dual Convection Countertop Oven Air Fry and – Best for Homemade Air Fried Chicken Using Convection Oven
• Breville BOV900BSS Smart Oven Air Fryer & Convection Oven – Best Overall for Air Fried Chicken Recipes in Convection Ovens
• Gourmia Digital Toaster Oven & Air Fryer, 4-Slice, Stainless – Best for Versatile Air Fried Chicken Tips in Convection Ovens
• CHEFMAN Digital Air Fryer & Rotisserie 10L, 17 Presets – Best for Making Air Fried Chicken with Preset Convenience

What Makes Korean Air Fried Chicken Distinctive?

Korean Air Fried Chicken is distinctive due to its unique preparation methods and flavor profiles that set it apart from other fried chicken variations.

• Double Frying Method: This technique involves frying the chicken twice, resulting in an incredibly crispy exterior while maintaining juicy meat inside. The first fry cooks the chicken through, and the second fry enhances the crunchiness, making it a hallmark of Korean fried chicken.
• Coating Variations: Korean fried chicken can be coated in a variety of sauces, such as sweet and spicy gochujang or soy garlic, which provide a distinctive flavor profile. The use of these unique sauces allows for a balance of heat and sweetness that is not commonly found in traditional fried chicken.
• Use of Cornstarch: Instead of using flour as the primary coating, Korean fried chicken often incorporates cornstarch, contributing to its light and airy texture. This ingredient helps achieve a crispy finish that holds up well even after being tossed in sauce.
• Flavorful Marinades: The chicken is typically marinated in a mix of ingredients like garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, infusing the meat with deep flavors before frying. This step enhances the overall taste and tenderness of the chicken, making it more flavorful than standard fried chicken.
• Serving Style: Korean fried chicken is often served with pickled radishes and beer, which create a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken. This combination is a staple in Korean dining culture, highlighting the dish’s versatility and enjoyment.

What Ingredients Are Essential for Korean Air Fried Chicken?

To create the best Korean air-fried chicken using a convection oven, selecting the right ingredients is crucial for achieving that iconic flavor and texture. Here are the essential components:

• Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, such as wings, drumsticks, or thighs, work best. The skin contributes to crispiness.

• Marinade: A combination of ingredients is key to enhancing flavor:

• Soy Sauce: Provides umami and saltiness.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a robust aroma.
• Ginger: Fresh ginger imparts warmth and spice.

• Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty flavor that is characteristic of Korean cuisine.

• Coating: For the signature crunch:

• Cornstarch: This creates a light, crispy exterior when air-fried.

• All-Purpose Flour: A mix of flour with cornstarch ensures a perfect texture.

• Seasoning: Korean air-fried chicken often incorporates:

• Korean Red Pepper Flakes (Gochugaru): Adds heat and color.

• Black Pepper and Salt: Balances out the flavors.

• Optional Garnishes: Chopped green onions and sesame seeds enhance presentation and flavor.

These ingredients come together to create a delicious Korean air-fried chicken that is both crispy and bursting with flavor, making your dish truly delightful.

Which Seasonings Bring Authentic Korean Flavors?

Gochujang is a versatile ingredient that combines fermented soybeans, glutinous rice, and chili powder, resulting in a thick paste that can be used in marinades and sauces. Its sweet and spicy profile complements the savory aspects of the chicken beautifully.

Soy sauce, particularly the Korean variety, is richer and slightly sweeter than traditional soy sauces, enhancing the chicken’s flavor while also helping to tenderize the meat during marination. It is a key ingredient in many Korean recipes, offering a foundational umami note.

Garlic is commonly used in Korean cooking for its strong aroma and flavor; it can be minced or used as a powder in your marinade. It not only enhances the taste but also adds a layer of fragrance that elevates the dish.

Sesame oil is often drizzled at the end of cooking or incorporated into marinades, providing a rich, nutty flavor. Its distinct aroma is a hallmark of Korean cuisine, making it an essential component for authenticity.

Green onions are added for both their flavor and visual appeal, often sprinkled on top of the finished dish. They contribute a fresh, crisp taste that balances the richness of the chicken.

Rice vinegar is used sparingly to brighten the flavors and add a subtle tang that cuts through the richness of the fried chicken. It helps to create a more balanced and complex flavor profile.

Finally, freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of warmth without overpowering the other flavors, ensuring that the seasoning blend remains well-rounded and harmonious.

What Chicken Cuts Work Best in a Convection Oven?

The best chicken cuts for making Korean air-fried chicken in a convection oven include:

• Chicken Wings: Chicken wings are ideal for convection cooking due to their small size and high surface area, which allows for maximum crispiness. They can be easily coated in a Korean-style marinade and fried to perfection, achieving the desired balance of savory and sweet flavors.
• Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them perfect for air frying. Their higher fat content helps maintain moisture during the cooking process, while the convection oven ensures a crispy exterior, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• Chicken Drumsticks: Drumsticks provide a fun and interactive eating experience, and they also cook evenly in a convection oven. The skin crisps up beautifully, creating a crunchy texture that pairs well with Korean sauces like gochujang or soy garlic.
• Boneless Chicken Breasts: While not traditional for Korean fried chicken, boneless chicken breasts can be used for a leaner option. They can be marinated and coated to infuse flavor, and when cooked in a convection oven, they maintain tenderness while achieving a nice crust.

How Do You Prepare the Chicken for Optimal Air Frying?

To prepare chicken for optimal air frying, especially for the best Korean air fried chicken using a convection oven, several key steps should be followed:

• Marination: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor infusion and moisture retention. A typical Korean marinade may include soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sugar, and sesame oil, which not only tenderizes the meat but also adds a rich depth of flavor.
• Drying the Chicken: After marination, it’s important to pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This step ensures that excess moisture is removed, allowing the skin to crisp up nicely during cooking, achieving that coveted crunchy texture.
• Coating: For a classic Korean air fried chicken, a coating of cornstarch or a flour mixture can be applied. This creates a light, crispy layer that enhances the crunch when air fried, mimicking the traditional deep-fried texture without the excess oil.
• Preheating the Oven: Preheating the convection oven is essential for achieving an even cook. By preheating, you ensure that the chicken starts cooking at the right temperature, which helps in achieving a golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
• Spacing the Chicken: When placing the chicken in the air fryer basket, ensure there is adequate space between each piece. This allows for proper air circulation, which is key to evenly cooking and crisping the chicken on all sides.
• Applying Oil: Lightly spraying or brushing the chicken with oil before air frying can enhance browning and crispiness. Using a cooking spray or a brush helps keep the calorie count low while still achieving the desired texture.

What Marinade Techniques Maximize Flavor and Juiciness?

Several marinade techniques can enhance the flavor and juiciness of Korean air fried chicken prepared in a convection oven:

• Brining: This technique involves soaking the chicken in a saltwater solution, often with added spices or flavorings. Brining helps the chicken retain moisture during cooking, resulting in a juicier final product and can also enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Acidic Marinades: Using ingredients like soy sauce, vinegar, or citrus juice in the marinade not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. The acidity breaks down proteins, making the chicken more tender while infusing it with a tangy taste that complements the sweetness of traditional Korean flavors.
• Dry Rubs: A mixture of spices and herbs can be applied directly to the chicken before cooking. This technique allows for a concentrated flavor burst and forms a delicious crust when air-fried, enhancing the overall taste experience without adding unnecessary moisture.
• Marinating Overnight: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours or overnight maximizes flavor absorption. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more robust the flavors will penetrate, resulting in a richer taste after cooking.
• Using Sweeteners: Incorporating ingredients like honey, brown sugar, or syrup in the marinade not only adds sweetness but also helps achieve a caramelized exterior during air frying. The sugar content promotes browning, which enhances both the visual appeal and the depth of flavor.

How Should You Coat Chicken for Ultimate Crispiness?

To achieve the ultimate crispiness for the best Korean air fried chicken using a convection oven, several coating techniques are essential:

• Marinating: Marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger not only infuses flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. The marinade creates a flavorful base that enhances the overall taste and contributes to a crispy texture when cooked.
• Double Dredging: This technique involves first coating the marinated chicken in a light dusting of flour or cornstarch, then dipping it in a beaten egg mixture, and finally coating it again in flour or a seasoned breading. This double layer creates a thicker crust that crisps up beautifully in the convection oven.
• Using Cornstarch: Incorporating cornstarch into the breading mixture or using it as a standalone coating can significantly enhance the crispiness of the chicken. Cornstarch absorbs moisture and creates a light, airy crust that becomes remarkably crispy when cooked in the convection oven.
• Resting Time: Allowing the coated chicken to rest for at least 30 minutes before cooking is crucial as it helps the coating adhere better to the chicken. This resting period also allows the coating to set, which can lead to a more satisfying crunch when cooked.
• Cooking Temperature: Setting the convection oven to a high temperature, typically around 400°F to 425°F, is essential for crispiness. This high heat ensures that the moisture evaporates quickly, allowing the coating to become golden brown and crunchy without overcooking the chicken inside.
• Oil Spritzing: Lightly spraying the coated chicken with oil before cooking can enhance browning and crispiness. The oil helps the coating to fry up more effectively in the convection oven, resulting in a deliciously crispy exterior.

What Cooking Temperature Is Best for Air Frying Korean Chicken?

The ideal cooking temperature for air frying Korean chicken using a convection oven typically falls between 375°F to 400°F.

• 375°F (190°C): Cooking at this temperature allows for a slower, more even cooking process, which is great for ensuring that the chicken is cooked thoroughly without burning the exterior. This setting is particularly beneficial for larger pieces of chicken, as it helps maintain juiciness while still achieving a crispy texture.
• 400°F (204°C): For those looking to achieve a crispier exterior quickly, 400°F is the optimal temperature. This higher heat promotes browning and crisping of the chicken skin, making it ideal for smaller pieces or wings. However, care should be taken to monitor the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
• Cooking Time Considerations: Regardless of the temperature chosen, the cooking time will vary based on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. Generally, chicken should be air-fried for about 20 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through to promote even cooking and browning.
• Preheating the Oven: Preheating the convection oven before placing the chicken inside can significantly enhance the cooking process. This ensures that the chicken begins cooking immediately upon entry, contributing to a better texture and flavor.

How Long Should the Chicken Be Cooked for Perfect Results?

The cooking time for chicken in a convection oven can vary based on the cut and size, but here are some guidelines for achieving perfect results.

• Whole Chicken: A whole chicken typically requires about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts should be cooked for approximately 20 to 30 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
• Chicken Thighs and Drumsticks: Bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks usually take around 35 to 45 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
• Chicken Wings: Chicken wings generally need about 25 to 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C) for a crispy texture.

A whole chicken benefits from the convection oven’s even heat distribution, allowing it to cook thoroughly while remaining juicy. Always check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part to ensure safety.

For chicken breasts, keeping the cooking time lower helps to avoid dryness; using a meat thermometer can help achieve a perfect juicy result without overcooking. Marinating the chicken beforehand can also enhance flavor and moisture retention.

Chicken thighs and drumsticks are generally more forgiving in terms of cooking time due to their fat content, which helps keep them moist even if slightly overcooked. They develop a delicious crispy skin when cooked properly in a convection oven.

Chicken wings, when cooked at a higher temperature, result in a crispy exterior while maintaining tenderness inside. Tossing them in a sauce post-cooking can elevate the flavor profile, making them a popular choice for gatherings.

What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Making Korean Air Fried Chicken?

When making the best Korean air fried chicken using a convection oven, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can affect the final result.

• Not marinating long enough: Failing to marinate the chicken for at least a few hours means missing out on the depth of flavor that traditional Korean fried chicken is known for. A longer marinade allows the spices and seasonings to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
• Using too much batter: Over-battering the chicken can lead to soggy textures instead of the desired crispy crunch. A light coating is ideal; this ensures the hot air can circulate around the chicken, allowing it to cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
• Skipping the preheating step: Not preheating your convection oven can cause uneven cooking and prevent the chicken from getting that golden-brown finish. Preheating the oven ensures that the chicken starts cooking at the right temperature, which is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.
• Crowding the air fryer basket: Overcrowding the basket can block the airflow needed for proper cooking and crisping. It’s best to cook in batches to ensure each piece has enough space for hot air to circulate, leading to evenly cooked and crispy chicken.
• Ignoring cooking times and temperatures: Each oven is different, and ignoring specific cooking times or temperatures can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Keeping an eye on the chicken and using a meat thermometer for accuracy will help achieve the perfect doneness.
• Not using the right oil: Choosing an oil with a low smoke point can result in burning and off flavors. Opting for oils with higher smoke points, like canola or peanut oil, will help maintain the integrity of the flavors while ensuring a crispy texture.
• Neglecting to flip the chicken: Failing to flip the chicken halfway through the cooking process can lead to uneven browning. Turning the pieces allows both sides to crisp up, enhancing the overall texture and appearance.

What Are Ideal Serving Suggestions to Pair with Korean Air Fried Chicken?

• Pickled Radish (Mu): This crunchy and tangy side dish complements the savory flavors of air fried chicken perfectly. The bright acidity of pickled radish helps to cut through the richness of the chicken, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Kimchi: A staple in Korean cuisine, kimchi adds a spicy and fermented kick to the meal. Its robust flavors not only enhance the taste of the chicken but also offer health benefits due to its probiotic content.
• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw made with sesame dressing can provide a cool and crunchy texture that balances the crispy chicken. The slight sweetness and tanginess from the dressing also play well with the savory notes of the fried chicken.
• Rice: Serving fluffy white rice or a sticky rice variety gives a neutral base to absorb the flavors of the chicken and sauces. Rice can also help to mellow out the overall palate, making it a comforting side dish.
• Sweet and Spicy Sauce: A dipping sauce made from gochujang (Korean chili paste) mixed with honey or sugar can elevate the flavor profile. The sweetness combined with heat enhances the chicken’s savory notes and adds an exciting dimension to each bite.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: A light stir-fry of seasonal vegetables, seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil, offers a colorful and nutritious accompaniment. The crunchiness of the vegetables adds texture and freshness to the meal, balancing the richness of the fried chicken.
• Beer or Soju: Pairing Korean air fried chicken with a cold beer or traditional soju can enhance the dining experience. The carbonation in beer refreshes the palate, while soju’s smoothness complements the chicken’s flavor without overwhelming it.

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