As I stood in my kitchen, the irresistible aroma of sizzling chicken wafted through the air, instantly whisking me away to the bustling streets of Seoul. Today, I’m thrilled to share my twist on a beloved comfort food: Crispy Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns. Perfectly balancing the crunch of fried chicken with the soft, pillowy goodness of steamed bao, this recipe offers a fun, customizable meal that’s sure to impress family and friends. Not only are these buns a fantastic alternative to fast food, but they also pack a satisfying punch of flavor that makes them a perfect choice for any occasion. Curious to discover how to create these delightful bites full of spicy goodness? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Why are Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns irresistible?
Delightful Combination: The fusion of crispy Korean fried chicken and fluffy bao buns creates an experience that’s truly unforgettable.
Customizable Flavor: Feel free to mix in your favorite sauces or toppings, like a tangy kimchi or fresh cucumber, allowing for a meal that can change with your mood.
Quick and Cozy: With easy preparation steps, these buns come together quickly, making them a perfect option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Crowd Pleaser: Whether you’re serving family or entertaining guests, these bao buns are sure to be a hit, appealing to both the adventurous eater and those seeking comfort food.
Unique Twist: Elevate your usual dinner routine and ditch fast food with these wholesome, homemade delights, perfect for those who crave something new yet familiar. Pair them with other delicious recipes like Garlic Parmesan Chicken for a complete meal!
Chicken Steamed Buns Ingredients
• Get ready to craft these mouthwatering Chicken Steamed Buns that will impress everyone at your table.
For the Bao Buns
• Plain Flour – Provides structure for the bao buns; consider using bleached flour for a lighter appearance.
• Cornflour (Cornstarch) – Lightens the texture of the buns; no substitution needed for that perfect fluffiness.
• Caster Sugar – Adds subtle sweetness; feel free to swap with granulated sugar if necessary.
• Instant Dried Yeast – Essential for leavening; you can use active dry yeast, but activate it first in warm water.
• Baking Powder – Important for fluffiness; make sure you don’t omit this one!
• Warm Water – Activates the yeast; ensure it’s warm but not boiling.
• Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture; any neutral oil works fine for this recipe.
For the Filling
• Chicken Thighs or Breasts – The main protein that brings juiciness; chicken thighs are recommended for extra tenderness.
• Sea Salt & White Pepper – Season the chicken; adjust according to your taste preference.
• Soy Sauce & Shaoxing Cooking Wine – Marinades that enhance umami flavor; if you can’t find Shaoxing, dry sherry is a good substitute.
• Egg White – Binds the marinade to the chicken; omit if you’re opting for a vegan version.
For Coating and Frying
• Additional Flour – Used for coating the chicken before frying; plain flour is ideal here.
• Vegetable Oil (for frying) – Ensure there’s enough for shallow frying to achieve that crispy texture.
For the Spicy Sauce
• Soy Sauce, Gochujang, Muscovado Sugar, Honey, Garlic – These combine into a savory, spicy glaze, elevating your chicken’s flavor profile.
For Garnishes
• Cucumber, Spring Onions (Scallions), Toasted Sesame Seeds – Fresh toppings that add a delightful crunch and contrast to the spicy chicken.
Get ready to dive into the magical world of Chicken Steamed Buns, where each bite takes you on a flavor adventure!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Steamed Buns
Step 1: Prepare Bao Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine plain flour, cornflour, caster sugar, instant dried yeast, and baking powder. Gradually add warm water and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients, stirring until a sticky dough starts to form. Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 2: First Proof
Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a damp cloth. Allow it to rise in a warm location for 60-90 minutes, or until it has doubled in size. This is crucial for the softness of your chicken steamed buns, so look for a puffy appearance indicating it’s ready.
Step 3: Shape Bao Buns
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide it into equal portions and roll each portion into a ball, then flatten. Use a rolling pin to shape each piece into a round disk about 4-5 inches in diameter. Allow the shaped bao buns to rise again for another 30 minutes on parchment paper, covered with a cloth.
Step 4: Steam Buns
Boil water in a steamer or a large pot with a steaming basket. Carefully place the buns inside, ensuring they are spaced apart. Cover and steam for about 10-12 minutes over medium heat until the buns are puffy and cooked through. They should feel soft to the touch, signaling that they are ready.
Step 5: Marinate Chicken
While the bao buns are steaming, prepare the chicken. Cut chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl. Add soy sauce, Shaoxing cooking wine, sea salt, white pepper, and egg white. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse those rich flavors.
Step 6: Fry Chicken
Once marinated, coat each piece of chicken with additional flour, shaking off any excess. Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Prepare Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, gochujang, muscovado sugar, honey, and minced garlic. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. This savory, spicy glaze will elevate your chicken filling’s flavor profile for the chicken steamed buns.
Step 8: Assemble Buns
To assemble your chicken steamed buns, take a steamed bao and carefully open it. Stuff it generously with the crispy fried chicken, drizzle with the prepared spicy sauce, and top with thinly sliced cucumber and spring onions. This final touch adds both freshness and a delightful crunch to your cozy comfort food.
Expert Tips for Chicken Steamed Buns
• Temperature Matters: Ensure the oil for frying is at 165°C/325°F for the perfect crispiness. A thermometer ensures accuracy and mouthwatering results.
• Yeast Activation: If using active dry yeast, don’t forget to activate it in warm water first. This crucial step guarantees the bao dough rises beautifully.
• Longer Marination, More Flavor: For deeper flavor, allow the chicken to marinate longer, even up to a few hours if time permits; it makes a remarkable difference.
• Steaming Technique: Make sure your buns have space while steaming to prevent them from sticking together. Use parchment paper to help with this.
• Fluffiness Check: If your bao buns are dense, they might not have risen enough during the proofing stage; always look for a puffy appearance before steaming.
Enjoy crafting your Chicken Steamed Buns, where each bite is a delightful experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns are perfect for home cooks looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the bao dough up to 24 hours in advance—just mix and knead as usual, then cover and refrigerate. The chicken can also be marinated up to 3 days ahead, ensuring maximum flavor; simply keep it in a sealed container in the fridge. When ready to enjoy, steam the bao for about 10-12 minutes and fry the chicken right before serving to maintain its crispy texture. This way, you can have restaurant-quality deliciousness at your fingertips with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Steamed Buns
Fridge: Store leftover chicken steamed buns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Place completely cooled buns in a freezer-safe bag or container, sealing tightly to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, steam the frozen buns directly from the freezer for about 10-15 minutes or microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 1-2 minutes until heated through, keeping your chicken steamed buns soft and delightful.
Room Temperature: If serving immediately, keep the buns covered with a cloth to maintain warmth and moisture, but enjoy them within a few hours for the best texture.
What to Serve with Crispy Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns
To complement the irresistible flavors of your bao buns, here are some delightful side dishes and beverages.
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Spicy Kimchi: This fermented vegetable side dish adds a tangy crunch and heat that perfectly balances the rich flavors of the bao.
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Crispy Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried, these provide a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the tender bao and fried chicken.
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Cucumber Salad: A refreshing option, the coolness of cucumber with a light dressing brightens the meal, appealing to your palate’s craving for balance.
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Soy-Glazed Edamame: Nutty and savory, these pop-in-your-mouth snacks offer a burst of flavor and contrast along with the bao’s softness.
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Tangy Pickled Radishes: Their crisp bite and sharp taste cut through the richness of the chicken, enhancing your dining experience with each bite.
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Chilled Green Tea: A soothing beverage, it complements the meal’s spices while offering a refreshing finish with its gentle flavors.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat with its chewy texture and rich coconut flavor is a delightful way to wrap up your meal.
Enjoy crafting the perfect spread to highlight your crispy Korean fried chicken bao buns!
Chicken Steamed Buns Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine while crafting these delicious steamed buns, as there are so many exciting twists you can explore!
- Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu marinated in the same sauces for a hearty plant-based alternative. You’ll enjoy all the flavor without the meat!
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade for those who love an extra heat in each bite. Bring the fire!
- Savory Twist: Mix in some kimchi to the filling for a tangy crunch that perfectly complements the chicken. This adds delightful layers of flavor.
- Different Proteins: Use pork belly or shrimp instead of chicken, adjusting the marinade time as necessary. Each option brings its own unique savory profile.
- Sauce Variants: Experiment with a teriyaki or sweet and sour sauce instead of the spicy glaze for a different taste experience. The sweet notes will take you on a new flavor journey!
- Garnish Upgrades: Toss in fresh basil or cilantro along with the cucumber for an aromatic lift. The herbal notes can elevate the entire dish!
- Herb-Infused Dough: Add chopped green onions or sesame seeds into the bao dough for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation. You’ll impress everyone with these little touches!
- Layered textural delight: Include a mix of pickled vegetables for added crunch and tang, making your bao buns a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Why not pair your delicious bao creations with a side of Garlic Parmesan Chicken or enjoy them alongside a fresh salad? Embrace the fusion of flavors, and let’s make mealtime unforgettable!
Chicken Steamed Buns Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for the filling?
I recommend using chicken thighs for a juicier filling, but chicken breasts can work too. Thighs offer more tenderness due to their higher fat content, which makes each bite melt in your mouth. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try tofu marinated in the same sauce!
How should I store leftover chicken steamed buns?
For freshest results, keep leftover chicken steamed buns in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to save them for later, you can also freeze them. Just ensure they are cooled completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll last up to 2 months.
Can I freeze the chicken steamed buns?
Absolutely! After the buns are steamed and cooled, store them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to seal it tightly to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just steam the frozen buns for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, preserving that delightful softness.
What should I do if my bao buns don’t rise properly?
If your bao buns are dense, they may not have risen enough during the proofing stage. Make sure you allow the dough to rise until it’s at least doubled in size, which usually takes 60-90 minutes in a warm place. Also, check that your yeast is fresh and active; if using active dry yeast, be sure to activate it in warm water first.
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! For a vegan option, simply omit the egg white and substitute the chicken with marinated tofu or seitan. You can also adjust seasonings to accommodate dietary preferences or allergies. Just be mindful of gluten if you choose to use an alternative flour for the bao.
What is the best way to reheat frozen chicken steamed buns?
Reheat frozen chicken steamed buns by steaming them directly from the freezer for about 10-15 minutes. This method maintains their softness and texture beautifully. Alternatively, you can microwave them wrapped in a damp paper towel for 1-2 minutes, just until they’re heated through. Enjoy these cozy comfort food delights!
Savory Chicken Steamed Buns: A Cozy Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine plain flour, cornflour, caster sugar, instant dried yeast, and baking powder. Gradually add warm water and vegetable oil, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
- Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Allow to rise in a warm location for 60-90 minutes until doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Divide into portions, roll into balls, and flatten into round disks about 4-5 inches in diameter. Allow to rise again for 30 minutes.
- Boil water in a steamer. Place buns in the steamer, cover, and steam for 10-12 minutes until puffy and cooked through.
- Prepare the chicken by cutting into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix chicken with soy sauce, Shaoxing cooking wine, sea salt, white pepper, and egg white. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Coat marinated chicken with additional flour. Heat vegetable oil in a pan and fry chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, gochujang, muscovado sugar, honey, and minced garlic. Simmer for about 5 minutes until sauce thickens.
- To assemble, open a steamed bao, stuff with crispy chicken, drizzle with spicy sauce, and top with cucumber and spring onions.
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