Spicy Buldak Carbonara Cheese Chicken Tenders Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

To achieve an even more intense flavor, let the chicken tenders marinate in a small amount of the Buldak sauce for thirty minutes in the refrigerator before dredging them in the starch.

This allows the spice to penetrate the meat, enhancing the overall depth of the dish. Remember to pat the chicken dry after marinating to ensure the starch coating sticks properly.

If you prefer a milder version of this dish, you can adjust the ratio of cream to Buldak sauce. Increasing the amount of heavy cream will dilute the heat, while adding a touch more honey can help balance the spice.

Adjusting these elements to suit individual preferences ensures that the dish remains enjoyable for everyone at the table while maintaining the signature creamy texture.

Variations

• Extra Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil to the sauce mixture for an extra kick of heat that complements the Buldak sauce.
• Vegetable Crunch: Toss in some thinly sliced scallions or toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish to add a fresh, crunchy texture that balances the richness of the cheese.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheat

Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through; avoid the microwave to prevent the sauce from separating.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Note that the crispy texture of the chicken will soften significantly once refrigerated and tossed in the sauce. For the best quality, try to consume the dish immediately after preparation to enjoy the contrast between the crispy coating and the creamy, melted cheese sauce.

You can prepare the chicken by dredging it in the potato starch and keeping it refrigerated until you are ready to fry.

The sauce base of cream, parmesan, and Buldak sauce can also be whisked together ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator. However, the frying and the final saucing should be done just before serving to ensure the best texture and flavor.

Serving ideas

Serve the tenders directly in the skillet to maintain the heat and keep the cheese melted and stretchy for as long as possible. Provide extra napkins, as the sauce is rich and the cheese pull can be quite dramatic.

This dish pairs exceptionally well with a side of steamed rice or crunchy pickled radishes to help cleanse the palate between spicy, creamy bites.

When serving, use tongs to lift the tenders, ensuring you capture some of the melted mozzarella and sauce from the bottom of the skillet. If you are serving multiple people, consider placing the skillet on a heat-resistant trivet in the center of the table so guests can help themselves while the sauce is still warm and the cheese is soft.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Spicy Buldak Carbonara Cheese Chicken Tenders

Prep 10 minCook 6 minTotal 16 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb chicken tenders
• 1/2 cup potato starch
• 3 tbsp Samyang Buldak hot chicken sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Dredge the chicken tenders thoroughly in the potato starch until each piece is evenly coated. Ensure excess starch is shaken off to prevent a gummy texture. Keep the chicken refrigerated until the oil is ready to ensure food safety and maintain a cool temperature before frying.
2. Heat oil in a deep skillet to exactly 375°F (190°C). Carefully place the chicken tenders into the hot oil. Fry for 6 minutes, turning as needed, until the exterior is golden brown and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove the tenders and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
3. In a clean skillet over medium-low heat, whisk together the Buldak hot chicken sauce, heavy cream, parmesan, and honey until combined. Heat the sauce to 300°F (149°C) until simmering. Toss the fried chicken tenders into the sauce to coat them. Add the shredded mozzarella around the skillet edge and cook until the cheese is completely melted and stretchy.

Contains: gluten, eggs, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

680

Protein

35 g

Carbohydrates

28 g

Fat

48 g

Fiber

1 g

Sugar

5 g

Sodium

950 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.