Suddenly craving ultra-crispy Korean fried chicken dripping with sauce? That's the classic effect of a good K-drama. Don't worry, you're not alone! As a true star of K-food, this dish has become a global staple. The problem? Making it from scratch is a real challenge: specific ingredients, double-frying, special techniques... Luckily, the frozen food aisle is coming to the rescue with impressive solutions for enjoying an authentic korean fried chicken without ever leaving your couch.
To help you navigate the ever-growing selection, our editors have tested and selected the best products available today. Follow our guide to find the frozen Korean chicken that everyone will love.
A few key points to check before you fill your basket to ensure you make the right choice.
The sauce is the secret to Korean chikin. There are three main flavour families:
A 350g bag of fried boneless chicken is perfect for a solo treat or a meal for two. For a K-drama night with friends or a family dinner, aim for the more generous 1kg+ sizes, which are more economical and great for sharing. Also, consider the cut: wings and drumettes are perfect for eating with your hands, while boneless bites are more convenient, especially for kids.
To achieve that legendary Korean chicken crispiness, it's all about the cooking method. Always read the instructions carefully, but here are the most common options:
Here are the products that caught our editors' attention for their taste, texture, and ease of preparation.
Why we love it: Bibigo is a benchmark brand in the world of Korean cuisine. Here, Bibigo uses chicken thigh meat (69%), a cut known for its tenderness, coated in a pre-fried batter and glazed with a perfectly balanced sauce. It's a reliable choice for a first-time experience.
Key features:
Who is it for? Ideal for a solo diner or a couple looking for a smooth and flawless introduction to korean fried chicken.
Why we love it: Fair warning, we're taking a slight detour from Korea with this Japanese fried chicken (Tanyang style), but the offering is too good to pass up. Its marinade (soy, garlic, ginger, sesame oil) provides a more subtle and less sweet umami profile than its Korean cousin. Its light batter and cooking versatility are real assets.
Key features:
Who is it for? For those who enjoy more nuanced Japanese flavours or simply want to mix things up.
Why we love it: This one is all about generosity, with an XXL size and an ultra-popular flavour: sweet garlic. With its 1.2kg bag, it's the perfect product for sharing. The fried boneless chicken bites are easy to eat, and the "Sweet Garlic" sauce is rich and glossy, just like you'd find at the best street food stalls in Seoul.
Key features:
Who is it for? The ideal solution for families, nights in with friends, or simply for those with big appetites who like to have a reliable staple in the freezer.
Our selection highlights the most iconic flavours of Korean-style fried chicken. But the world of frozen Asian poultry is much broader! Bone-in pieces, other marinades, breaded or unbattered versions... Feel free to explore our section to uncover other gems.
? Discover our full range of chicken to find other convenient meal solutions.
1. What's the difference between Korean fried chicken and classic fried chicken? The difference comes down to two secrets: double-frying and the sauce. Korean chicken is fried twice, which makes its skin incredibly crispy and less greasy. Afterwards, each piece is carefully coated in a glossy sauce (sweet, savoury, or spicy), whereas Western fried chicken is most often served plain.
2. How do you reheat frozen Korean chicken so it stays crispy? The secret weapon is the air fryer. Preheat it to around 180-200°C (350-400°F) and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through. A conventional oven is also an excellent option. The one thing to avoid at all costs is the microwave, which will turn your crispy coating into a soggy mess.
3. Can you find halal Korean fried chicken? Yes, more and more brands are offering halal-certified versions. To be sure, look for the official certification logo on the packaging before you buy. This information, along with the list of allergens, is mandatory and must be clearly displayed.