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–+ servings
Korean Chicken Bao Buns

Savor Every Bite of Korean Chicken Bao Buns at Home

Experience the delightful fusion of Korean Chicken Bao Buns, a spicy twist on traditional comfort food.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Steaming Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 buns
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Korean, Taiwanese
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bao Buns
  • 4 buns Bao Buns Soft, pillowy exterior; essential for traditional bao structure, and can be store-bought for convenience.
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Korean Fried Chicken Crispy texture and flavorful glaze; double frying enhances crunch—substitute with cauliflower for a vegetarian option.
  • 3 tbsp Gochujang Sauce Adds a spicy umami flavor; can be replaced with sriracha for less heat.
  • 2 tbsp Soy Sauce Provides depth of flavor and saltiness; use tamari for a gluten-free choice.
  • 1 tbsp Sesame Oil Enhances aroma and richness; if unavailable, substitute with any neutral oil.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh minced garlic brings pungency and heat; garlic powder can be used as a substitute.
For Assembly
  • 1 cup Pickled Vegetables Adds brightness and crunch; mix up your favorites for unique flavor combinations.
  • 1/2 cup Gochujang Mayo Adds a creamy, spicy element; perfect for topping off your bao.

Equipment

  • Bamboo steamer
  • deep pot
  • mixing bowl
  • parchment paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Bao Buns: Start by steaming your bao buns until they're soft and fluffy. If using store-bought buns, place them in a bamboo steamer lined with parchment paper over simmering water, cover with a lid, and steam for about 10 minutes. If making homemade buns, follow your dough recipe to shape and steam until they puff up nicely.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Prepare your crispy Korean fried chicken. Toss bite-sized chicken pieces in flour, ensuring they're fully coated. Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C) and double fry the chicken for about 6–8 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel.
  3. Make the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic to create a flavorful marinade. Once your fried chicken is ready, toss it in the marinade until every piece is generously coated.
  4. Assemble the Buns: Take a warm bao bun and place a generous amount of the marinated fried chicken inside. Add pickled vegetables for a crunchy, tangy contrast, and dribble some gochujang mayo on top.
  5. Serve: Arrange your delicious Korean Chicken Bao Buns on a platter and enjoy them immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bunCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Double fry your chicken for unbeatable crunch. Store leftover buns in an airtight container. Reheat using a steamer or the microwave with a damp paper towel.

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