K-CHICKEN

Korean fried chicken, or simply "chicken (์น˜ํ‚จ)" is a dish where pieces of chicken are coated in batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. It's one of the most popular foods in Korea. Beer completes the combo for "Chi-maek," while rice pairs up for "Chi-bap." With its wide variety of flavors and styles, Korean fried chicken is a must-try culinary experience.
๐Ÿ“ Good to Know!
โœ” Chicken servings are typically for two people, as most orders include a whole chicken, which might be too much for one person. โœ” Crunchy pickled radish is usually served on the side, and some places may also include complimentary soda.
K-Chicken (์น˜ํ‚จ)
The classics include "Fried Chicken" without sauce and "Yangnyeom Chicken," coated in a spicy-sweet glaze. For a lighter option, there's "Roasted Chicken," baked to reduce grease. With countless brands and styles, everyone has their favorite chicken variety.
๐Ÿ— Chicken Cuts
โœ” Typically divided into drumsticks, breasts, and wings. โœ” Drumsticks and wings are juicy and tender, while breast meat is leaner and milder. โœ” You can choose from drumsticks, wings & drumettes, combo (drumsticks, wings, drumettes), or boneless when ordering.
โ–ถ๏ธ Boneless/Bone-in
One of the key options you can choose when ordering. Bone-in chicken is for those who enjoy picking meat off the bone, while boneless is easy to eat with a fork or chopsticks. There might be an extra charge for boneless chicken.
โ–ถ๏ธ Half-and-Half
Some brands allows you to order two different flavors in one serving, or even three, as half-and-half. There might be an extra charge, but it's a great way to sample multiple styles of chicken at once.
Popular Chicken Brands
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    BHC
    BHC is known for its signature "Bburinkle" chicken, featuring a sweet and savory cheese-based seasoning. Don't miss out on their crispy mozzarella-filled cheese balls, a perfect companion to your meal!
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    BBQ
    One of Korea's top three chicken brands. Their "Golden Olive" chicken is iconic and similar to fried chicken in Korea. The "Golden Olive Yangnyeom Chicken," seasoned with natural ingredients, is another must-try.
  • blog.naver.com/hjheem/223653454193
    Kyochon Chicken
    The most popular chicken brand since the early 2000s. Their best-selling "Honey Series" features chicken flavored with sweet honey and soy sauce. Koreans especially love pairing the "Honey Combo" with spicy Tteokbokki.
  • blog.naver.com/nohzzi-/223664616019
    Cheogajip Yangnyeom Chicken
    Leading the way in Yangnyeom chicken, Cheogajip is famous for its balanced sauce, offering a delightful sweetness. Their "Supreme Yangnyeom Chicken," topped with a creamy mayonnaise-based sauce, is also a hit.
  • Goobne Chicken
    Goobne has won hearts of locals with its signature oven-baked recipes. The Original and Chili Pepper Crunch menus are top sellers, while the spicy "Volcano Chicken" pairs perfectly with rice, making it ideal for "Chibap."
  • Gcova Chicken
    At the forefront of Korea's beloved "Chibap" trend, Gcova delights with its roasted chicken stir-fried in a signature sauce. The chicken is pre-cut into bite-sized pieces, making it easy to enjoy.
  • blog.naver.com/melody_nomade/223554825786
    Gudoro Tongdak
    Reinventing chicken with savory glutinous rice crust. The bold and tangy "Garlic Scape Chicken" is a must-try, while cheese lovers will enjoy the Corn Cheese Chicken with its sweet corn and melted cheese combo.
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    Kiyoung's Charcoal Grilled Chicken
    "Marinated Pork Skin Charcoal Chicken" were sold out shortly after release. Signature dishes include "Marinated Charcoal Chicken" and "Salted Garlic Charcoal Chicken," best paired with crispy garlic chips and udon noodles.
Tongdak (ํ†ต๋‹ญ)
Unlike chicken that's cut into parts and fried, Tongdak is fried in whole without the head and feet. It's usually seasoned with just salt and pepper, making it mild, with a crispy outside and juicy inside. Visit traditional markets to see the nostalgic process of frying it in large iron cauldrons.
Popular Tongdak Brands
  • ttobongee.com/skin3/menu_view.php?m=1&c=singlemenu
    Ttobongee Tongdak
    A perfect spot to experience classic Tongdak with its thin, salty skin. Their crispy fried gizzards are another favoriteโ€”pair them with the Tongdak set for a complete meal. Affordable prices make it a great choice for a casual treat.
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    Gamachi Tongdak
    Named after the Korean dialect for "crispy scorched rice stuck to the bottom of a cauldron," Gamachi stands out for raising chickens fed with carefully selected eggs. They deliver exceptional flavor and quality.
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    Gyeongdong Market Tongdak Alley
    The alley is home to old-school fried chicken spots, which went viral thanks to "Namwon Tongdak" on YouTube. Freshly fried crispy Tongdak is served with side dishes like rice cakes, chili peppers, gizzards, and sweet potato fries.
Dakgangjeong (๋‹ญ๊ฐ•์ •)
Dakgangjeong is a beloved dish made by frying chicken pieces and coating them in a sticky, sweet sauce. The rich, gooey sauce is the key to Dakgangjeong's charm, though spicy variations are also popular. Light, crispy fried Dakgangjeong is available for those who prefer a simpler flavor. Typically served boneless for easy, bite-sized enjoyment.
Popular Dakgangjeong brands
  • instagram.com/gamaro_insta/p/CfvgczwPI4x
    Gamaro Gangjeong
    Specializing in Dakgangjeong cooked in traditional cauldrons, this spot is known for its crispy texture achieved with rice flour. Choose from flavors like spicy, sweet, or garlic soy. Their menu offers single, double, and triple flavor combinations for variety.
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    Gangjeongi Giga Makyeo
    Renowned as Korea's first Dakgangjeong brand, it uses a signature sauce made from natural ingredients. Loved for its classic preparation method, it also caters to solo diners with its "Single Serving Gangjeong" option.
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    Mangwon Market Dakgangjeong
    Located in Mapo-gu's bustling Mangwon Market, this spot is a must-visit for foodies. Q's Dakgangjeong offers an array of flavors, from sweet and savory to cheese mustard, fruit-infused, and honey garlic, ensuring there's something for every palate.
Local Picks: Unique Chicken Brands ๐Ÿ—
1๏ธโƒฃ Hyodo Chicken
Known for combining Korean flavors with chicken, this spot offers creative dishes like their signature "Hyodo Kwari Myul Chicken"โ€”soy-sauce-flavored chicken topped with fried chili peppers and anchovies. For those who love spice, try the "Go-Ma-Wo Chicken," featuring fried lotus root, peppers, garlic, and spicy sauce. Donโ€™t forget to add sides like the "Egg Mayo Salad" or "Hyodo Salad," topped with shredded cabbage and house-made sauce.
2๏ธโƒฃ Chicken in the Kitchen
A hidden gem famous for its herb-infused, crispy "Bump of Chicken," served with onion rings and wedge potatoes. Another favorite is the "Red Hot Chili Peppers Chicken," coated in a tangy, spicy sauce and paired with rice cakes and potato wedges. For something unique, try the "Salon Cream Chicken Pasta," where spicy chicken meets creamy pasta for the perfect flavor pairing.
  • Hongdae Main Branch
    Hongdae Main Branch
    Restaurant ยท Seoul(Hongdae)
  • Gyeongbokgung Branch
    Gyeongbokgung Branch
    Restaurant ยท Seoul(Gwanghwamun)
3๏ธโƒฃ Gyeyeolsa (Main Branch)
One of Seoulโ€™s top three chicken spots, this place is celebrated for its classic fried chicken. Served in a basket with freshly fried Korean potatoes, their chicken is praised for its crispy exterior and tender meat, while the fluffy potatoes are a delightful bonus.
  • Gyeyeolsa Chicken
    Gyeyeolsa Chicken
    Restaurant ยท Seoul
4๏ธโƒฃ Isu Tongdak
Featured on numerous TV shows, Isu Tongdak fries their chicken in a traditional cauldron for a crispy crust and juicy interior. They offer unique flavors like garlic chicken, pepper chicken, and corn cheese chicken. Donโ€™t miss the fried chicken gizzards, served as a complimentary side, or the green onion whelk salad for a tangy balance to the rich chicken.
  • Isu Tongdak
    Isu Tongdak
    Restaurant ยท Seoul(Gangnam)
5๏ธโƒฃ Hanshin Chicken
Located at the Express Bus Terminal, this retro eatery is a favorite among office workers. Pair the popular half-and-half chicken with their "Spicy Clam Sujebi," a hotpot of thin dough slices, potatoes, and shrimp in a spicy broth. The bold flavors make it a perfect match for fried chicken and beer, ideal for an after-work treat.
  • Hanshin Chicken Hof
    Hanshin Chicken Hof
    Restaurant ยท Seoul(Gangnam)
Perfect Chicken Combo ๐Ÿฏ
โœ” Chibap
A staple for Koreans, rice finds its way into every mealโ€”even with chicken! "Chibap" is the delightful pairing of chicken and rice. Enjoy it as a side dish or mix leftover chicken with rice for your next meal. For the best flavor, opt for saucy Yangnyeom chicken over fried.
โœ” Chimaek
Nothing beats the classic combo: Chicken&Beer! Especially popular during sports events like soccer or baseball games, Chimaek is a must-have. In Korea, you'll often find fans enjoying Chimaek at stadiums or picnicking by the Hangang River with chicken delivered right to them.
โœ” Chicol
For those who prefer to skip the alcohol, chicken pairs just as perfectly with cola. Many Korean chicken deliveries come with complimentary cola, making this combo a classic. The sweet, fizzy drink balances out the richness of the chicken perfectly.
โœ” Cabbage ketchup-mayo salad
Thinly sliced cabbage topped with a mix of ketchup and mayonnaise is a common side served at chicken restaurants. This tangy and creamy salad complements the savory chicken, offering a refreshing contrast to its richness.
2024.11
The provided information may be updated.