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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Fried chicken is one of the most popular dishes around the globe. Despite its signature look of crispy batter coated with a golden brown color, some versions from different countries are named the best fried chicken in the world.
Citing from Taste Atlas, here are the top 10 best fried chicken in the world, popular for their delicious taste and great crunch.
1. Korean Fried Chicken (Chikin) - South Korea
South Korea’s chikin tops the list as the best fried chicken in the world. This crispy, deep-fried dish is not only a beloved staple in South Korea but has also won the hearts of people around the world. Chikin is originally prepared using a double-frying method, where the chicken is first cooked at a lower heat and then fried again at a higher temperature to achieve perfect crispiness.
With numerous Korean fried chicken chains spreading worldwide, chikin has undergone countless variations, with bold flavors introduced through unique sauces and seasonings such as Gochujang and cheese powder, elevating this crispy favorite to new heights.
2. Karaage - Japan
Japanese fried chicken or Karaage. shutterstock.com
Karaage is originally a Japanese cooking technique rather than a specific dish. In this method, ingredients are coated with a light dusting of arrowroot starch before being deep fried. This technique creates a crispy texture while preserving the moisture inside the food.
Though karaage is most commonly associated with Japanese-style fried chicken, it is also a popular technique for preparing other meats, such as squid and fish. The dish is often paired with soy sauce for dipping, which complements the ginger and garlic flavors infused into the food.
3. Chicken 65 - India
India’s Chicken 65 is widely regarded as one of the world's finest fried chickens, celebrated for its bold and aromatic flavor. The origin story of this iconic dish varies—some say it was originally cut into 65 pieces, others claim it contained 65 hot chili peppers, or that it was prepared when the chicken was 65 days old.
While Chicken 65 is a staple in Indian cuisine, it has many regional variations. In Karnataka, for example, it is often garnished with grated coconut, adding a unique twist to this flavorful dish.
4. Fried Chicken - America
When it comes to the best fried chicken in the world, OG American fried chicken should not be overlooked. Known for its crispy, seasoned coating, this Southern-style dish remains an all-time favorite ever since its introduction during the colonial era. Combining the authentic recipes of Scottish settlers with the rich spices and seasonings of African slaves, this classic has become a comfort food for people of all ages. The key element of this fried chicken is the size of the meat, which should be held precisely with one hand to ensure a perfect bite.
5. Ayam Goreng - Indonesia
Ayam Goreng, or Indonesian fried chicken, is famous for its rich and fragrant spices. Often marinated in a blend of turmeric, tamarind, lemongrass, and galangal, this dish is typically fried until golden brown and crispy.
The best way to enjoy this bone-in fried chicken is by pairing it with a side of rice, sambal (a spicy chili paste), and salad. It is one of the most popular dishes in Indonesian cuisine, with many variations in different regions.
6. Crispy Fried Chicken (Zhaziji) - China
Cantonese-style fried chicken, known for its unique cooking method, involves multiple processes such as steaming, drying, and finally deep-frying. This technique is what gives Zhaziji its irresistibly crispy skin while keeping the meat incredibly tender.
As a popular dish, Zhaziji is often served with prawn crackers and pepper salt, which balance the spices infused during the steaming process and enhance the overall flavor and texture.
7. Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken - Taiwan
Taiwanese popcorn chicken. Photo: TETO
Taiwanese popcorn chicken is a favorable street food with a delightful twist on fried chicken. Made from boneless chicken thighs, this dish is served in desirable bite-sized pieces.
Its savory flavor is the result of an efficient cooking process that includes marinating in soy sauce, seasoning with five-spice powder, deep-frying, and garnishing with basil leaves. The combination of crispiness, savory flavor, and aromatic herbs makes Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken a must-try for fried chicken lovers.
8. Chicken Kyiv (Kotleta po Kvisky) - Ukraina
Chicken Kyiv is a dish that has become iconic outside of its home country of Ukraine. The dish features a boneless chicken breast stuffed with a rich mixture of chilled garlic butter and herbs, then breaded and fried to golden perfection. While it is often mistaken for just another fried chicken dish, the signature garlic butter filling inside makes it truly unique, particularly when you see the melting butter spilling out.
9. Ayam Penyet - Indonesia
Another beloved fried chicken dish from Indonesia, Ayam Penyet is served in a unique way by smashing the chicken into a semi-flattened state before serving or deep frying. Originally from East Java, this bold and flavorful dish is typically served with rice, sambal on the side, fresh vegetables, fried tempeh, and fried tofu.
10. Hot Chicken - America
Hot Chicken, or Nashville Hot Chicken, is a spicy, crispy fried chicken dish that originated in Nashville, Tennessee. The chicken is fried and then coated in a spicy, oily paste made with cayenne pepper, resulting in a fiery, flavorful crust. The perfect accompaniment to hot chicken is a slice of white bread, paired with pickles or coleslaw on the side, which help balance the heat and add a refreshing contrast.
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