Asian Fried Chicken: Frozen Options Worth Trying

Craving crispy, flavourful Asian fried chicken, but short on time or energy to cook? Don't worry, you're not alone. For busy weeknights or impromptu snack sessions in front of your favourite show, finding a quick option that doesn't sacrifice on taste is key. The frozen food aisle is full of promises, but it's often hard to navigate.

At Joybuy, our mission is to uncover the best gems in the frozen food aisle for you. This guide is designed to showcase our top finds for frozen Asian chicken and give you everything you need to choose the one that will win you over, whether you're a fan of Korean fried chicken or Japanese karaage chicken.

Buyer's Guide: 3 Criteria for Choosing Your Asian Fried Chicken

Before we get to our top picks, here are a few things to check to make the right choice.

1. The Style and Flavours

Asian cuisine is incredibly diverse, and fried chicken is no exception.

• Korean Style: Its signature? A double-frying process that gives it an unparalleled crunch. Korean fried chicken is then generously coated in a sauce. The most popular are made with gochujang (fermented chilli paste) for a spicy Asian chicken that delivers a real kick, or milder options like the famous soy-honey sauce.
• Japanese Style: Japanese fried chicken, or karaage, is all about the marinade (soy sauce, sake, ginger, garlic), which infuses the meat with deep umami flavours before frying. The coating is thinner and more delicate, letting the flavour take centre stage.
• The Marinades: Beyond these two stars, the possibilities are endless. A frozen soy sauce chicken will deliver a savoury, indulgent flavour, while other recipes might focus on spiciness or sweeter notes.

2. The Preparation Method

The biggest advantage of frozen fried chicken is its simplicity. Most products are already pre-cooked and just need to be reheated. Be sure to check the instructions to see if they are compatible with your equipment. Good news for air fryer owners: many products are now optimised for oil-free cooking, making them excellent chicken for the air fryer. This method guarantees an ultra-crispy result in 10 to 15 minutes, without the mess and smell of deep-frying. Baking in the oven remains an excellent alternative, of course.

3. The Format and Composition

Are you looking for boneless bites perfect for an appetiser or to top a rice bowl, or more generous pieces like whole thighs? The format will depend on the occasion. Also, take a look at the percentage of chicken meat in the ingredients list. A high percentage (often around 70% or more) is a good indicator of quality: it's a promise of more chicken and less breading.

Recommended Frozen Asian Fried Chicken

Here are the products that caught our attention with their taste and simplicity.

Korean-Style Soy & Honey Fried Chicken - bibigo

Why it stands out A trusted name in Korean specialities, the bibigo brand immerses us in the heart of K-food with this authentic Korean fried chicken. The pieces of chicken thigh, pre-fried for maximum crispiness, are coated in a perfectly balanced soy-honey sauce. It's the perfect gateway to discovering the flavours of Korea.

Pros

• Crowd-Pleasing Flavour: The soy-honey sauce offers a sweet and savoury blend that everyone will love.
• Quality Meat: Made with 69% chicken thigh meat, for tender and juicy bites.
• Ultra-Convenient: Ready in minutes in the oven, it's the perfect meal or appetiser when you're short on time.

Who is it for? For all fans of Korean culture (K-pop, K-dramas) who dream of enjoying the famous chikin at home, effortlessly. Ideal for an easy weeknight dinner.

Tanyang Japanese Soy Sauce Fried Chicken - FRESHASIA

Why it stands out With this version inspired by Japanese fried chicken, FRESHASIA takes us on a trip to Japan. The Tanyang style relies on a flavourful marinade (soy sauce, garlic, ginger) that infuses the meat. The coating, more subtle than its Korean cousin, lets the taste shine through.

Pros

• Versatility: It can be prepared in a deep fryer or oven, and it's an excellent chicken for the air fryer (ready in 10-12 minutes).
• Umami Flavour: The marinade of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil provides a rich, complex taste.
• Shareable Size: The 500g bag is perfect for appetisers with friends or a family meal.

Who is it for? For those who appreciate the more subtle flavours and umami depth of Japanese cuisine. A great choice for a lively evening or a friendly get-together.

Spicy Whole Chicken Thigh - Freshasia

Why it stands out This option from Freshasia is for those who love bold flavours and substantial portions. Here we have a whole, boneless chicken thigh, marinated in a zesty seasoning. With 78% thigh meat, it promises a satisfying and flavour-packed product.

Pros

• Express Cooking: Designed for those in a hurry, it's ready in just 3.5 to 4 minutes in the air fryer.
• Generous Portion: A whole thigh for a filling meal or a truly indulgent snack.
• It's Spicy!: The blend of spices and chilli oil ensures a spicy Asian chicken with a bold character.

Who is it for? For those looking for an ultra-fast solo meal solution with a real kick. It's like a street food-style snack you can devour on the go, but at home.

Want to explore other flavours?

Our selection is just a taste. To explore other marinades, different cuts, or simply satisfy your curiosity, check out our full range.

? Discover our full range of juicy chicken

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I get frozen fried chicken perfectly crispy? For maximum crispiness, the air fryer is your best friend. Preheat it to 180-200°C (350-400°F) and follow the cooking time on the package (often 10-15 minutes). The oven, preheated to 200°C (400°F) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, also gives excellent results. Avoid the microwave at all costs, as it will make the coating soggy.

2. Korean fried chicken or Japanese karaage: what's the difference? It's all in the preparation. Korean fried chicken is often double-fried for extreme crispiness, then coated in a sauce (spicy, sweet and savoury, etc.). In contrast, Japanese karaage chicken is first marinated, then coated in a thin layer of starch before being fried. The flavour comes from within the meat, and it's traditionally served with a lemon wedge.

3. What should I serve with Asian fried chicken? A simple bowl of white rice is a timeless classic. For a touch of freshness and acidity to balance the dish, nothing beats Korean side dishes (banchan) like pickled radish (danmuji) or the essential kimchi. A crunchy coleslaw also works perfectly.