Amazing Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns at Home

If you love bold flavors and soft, pillowy bites, these spicy fried chicken bao buns are a must-try. Crispy Korean-style fried chicken coated in a sweet-spicy gochujang glaze is tucked inside fluffy steamed buns, creating a perfect fusion of textures and flavors. Whether for a fun family dinner or a wow-factor snack, these bao buns are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love These Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns

These bao buns are a harmony of textures and tastes. The fried chicken is golden and crispy on the outside but tender and juicy inside. The spicy-sweet glaze adds a kick of flavor without being overwhelming. Soft, steamed buns balance the heat, while fresh cucumber and scallions provide a crisp, refreshing contrast. Making them at home lets you control the spice and sweetness exactly to your liking.

• Crispy, juicy Korean-style fried chicken
• Sweet and spicy gochujang glaze
• Soft, fluffy bao buns
• Fresh, crunchy vegetables for contrast
• Fun, interactive meal ideal for sharing

Ingredients for Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns

For the Bao Buns

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp instant yeast
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Spicy Fried Chicken

• 500g chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
• 1 egg white
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Spicy Glaze

• 3 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 clove garlic, minced

To Serve

• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 2 spring onions (scallions), sliced
• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds

Ingredient Notes

• Chicken: Thighs are juicier, but breasts work fine if you prefer leaner meat.
• Gochujang: Adjust to taste for mild or extra heat.
• Honey/Brown sugar: Sweetens the glaze naturally; maple syrup works too.
• Bao Buns: Homemade gives the best texture, but frozen buns are a convenient shortcut.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare Bao Buns

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, sugar, yeast, and baking powder.
2. Add warm water and oil; knead until a smooth dough forms.
3. Cover and let the dough rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
4. Divide dough into small portions, shape into buns, and steam for 10–12 minutes.

Step 2 – Marinate Chicken

1. Mix chicken pieces with salt, pepper, soy sauce, and Shaoxing wine.
2. Whisk in the egg white and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Step 3 – Fry Chicken

1. Heat oil in a pan to 175°C (350°F).
2. Coat chicken in flour and carefully fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side.
3. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 4 – Make Spicy Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic.
2. Simmer over low heat for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5 – Toss Chicken in Sauce

1. Add fried chicken to the glaze and toss until fully coated.

Step 6 – Assemble Bao Buns

1. Slice steamed buns open and spread a little glaze inside.
2. Add a few pieces of chicken, cucumber slices, and spring onions.
3. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Success

• Pat chicken dry before frying to ensure maximum crispiness.
• Steam buns right before serving for the softest texture.
• Adjust gochujang to control spice level.
• Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature for perfect frying.
• Add pickled vegetables for extra tang.
• Make glaze ahead of time and reheat gently.

Flavor Variations

• Honey Garlic: Swap gochujang with honey and minced garlic for a sweet twist.
• Extra Crunch: Add crushed peanuts or crispy shallots as toppings.
• Veggie Bao: Substitute fried chicken with crispy tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Mayo: Add a drizzle of sriracha mayo for creamy heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of kimchi or pickled vegetables.
• Pair with cold beer or iced green tea.
• Perfect for a DIY bao bun party.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

• Chicken: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Buns: Steam again briefly before serving; freeze uncooked buns for up to 1 month.
• Glaze: Keep in fridge for up to 1 week.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sodium
320	20g	30g	12g	2g	580mg

FAQ About Spicy Fried Chicken Bao Buns

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend for both the buns and coating the chicken. Ensure your soy sauce is also gluten-free.

Can I bake instead of fry the chicken?

Absolutely. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, for a healthier version. It won’t be as crispy as deep-frying, but still delicious.

How spicy are these bao buns?

Can I prepare the buns in advance?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it. Steam just before serving for best results.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but thighs remain juicier and more flavorful. Breast can be slightly drier if overcooked.

Final Thoughts

Making spicy fried chicken bao buns at home is easier than it seems. The combination of crispy chicken, soft buns, and spicy-sweet glaze makes for an unforgettable meal. Customize your toppings, adjust the heat, and enjoy the fun of assembling each bun. Perfect for entertaining or a weekend treat, these bao buns are sure to become a favorite.