20 Best Fried Chicken Recipes from Around the World
Fried chicken is a universally loved dish, embraced by cultures across the globe. Its crispy exterior and juicy interior make it a favorite comfort food for many. This article explores 20 diverse fried chicken recipes, each with its unique twist and flavor. From spicy Korean wings to Southern-style buttermilk chicken, these recipes showcase the rich culinary traditions that make fried chicken a beloved dish worldwide. Whether you prefer it spicy, sweet, or savory, there’s a recipe here to tantalize your taste buds and inspire your next cooking adventure.
1. Southern Buttermilk Fried Chicken
The Southern United States is famous for its rich culinary traditions, and buttermilk fried chicken is no exception. Marinated in seasoned buttermilk, this chicken is tenderized and infused with flavor before being coated in a spiced flour mixture. Fried to perfection, the result is a juicy, flavorful chicken with a satisfyingly crunchy crust. Perfect for picnics and family gatherings, this dish is a staple in Southern cuisine. Pair it with classic sides like coleslaw and biscuits for a complete and comforting meal.
2. Korean Fried Chicken
Korean fried chicken stands out for its extra crispy skin and spicy-sweet glaze. The chicken is double-fried to achieve a crunchy exterior that stays crispy even when coated in a sticky sauce. Typically spiced with gochujang, a Korean chili paste, this dish offers a delightful combination of heat and sweetness. It’s a popular choice for late-night snacking and pairs wonderfully with chilled beer. Garnished with sesame seeds and scallions, it’s not just tasty but also visually appealing.
3. Japanese Karaage
Karaage is Japan’s answer to fried chicken, known for its tender, juicy meat encased in a light, crispy coating. Marinated in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, the chicken absorbs bold flavors before being dusted with potato starch and fried. This technique ensures a crisp texture that doesn’t overpower the delicate flavors of the marinade. Often served with lemon wedges and a side of mayo, karaage is a popular choice for bento boxes and izakaya menus.
4. Indian Tandoori Fried Chicken
Incorporating Indian spices and cooking techniques, tandoori fried chicken offers a unique twist on the classic. Marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric, the chicken is then fried to lock in the flavors. The vibrant red color comes from the addition of chili powder and paprika, making it visually stunning. This dish is a fusion of traditional tandoori flavors with the crispy texture of fried chicken, offering a new and exciting taste experience.
5. Jamaican Jerk Fried Chicken
Jamaican jerk seasoning brings a fiery kick to fried chicken, combining allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers for an intense flavor profile. The chicken is marinated in this aromatic blend, allowing the spices to penetrate deep into the meat. Fried to a golden brown, the result is a spicy, crispy delight that captures the essence of Jamaican cuisine. Often enjoyed with rice and peas, this dish is perfect for those who love bold and spicy flavors.
6. Nashville Hot Chicken
Originating from Nashville, Tennessee, hot chicken is a fiery dish known for its intense heat and flavor. The chicken is marinated in buttermilk, fried, and then coated with a spicy cayenne pepper sauce. Served on white bread with pickles, this dish is a favorite for those who enjoy a spicy kick. The balance of heat and flavor makes it a thrilling eating experience. Whether you prefer it as a sandwich or on its own, Nashville hot chicken is a must-try for spice lovers.
7. Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken
Taiwanese popcorn chicken is a popular street food snack known for its bite-sized pieces and bold flavors. The chicken is marinated with soy sauce, sugar, and five-spice powder, then coated in sweet potato flour for a unique crunch. Often served in paper bags, it’s garnished with fried basil leaves and chili peppers, adding an aromatic touch. This dish is incredibly addictive, offering a tantalizing blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors that keep you coming back for more.
8. Chinese Sichuan Fried Chicken
Sichuan cuisine is known for its bold flavors, and Sichuan fried chicken is no exception. The dish features a delightful combination of spicy and numbing sensations, thanks to the use of Sichuan peppercorns and dried red chilies. The chicken is fried until golden, providing a crunchy texture that complements the intense seasoning. Garnished with green onions, it’s a dish that’s both aromatic and spicy. Perfect for those who enjoy the unique mouth-tingling experience of Sichuan cuisine.
9. Italian Parmesan Fried Chicken
Italian Parmesan fried chicken combines the crispy goodness of fried chicken with the rich flavors of Parmesan cheese. The chicken is first coated in a mixture of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan, creating a savory crust that’s both crunchy and cheesy. Served with marinara sauce on the side, this dish offers a delightful Italian twist on a classic favorite. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
10. French Poulet Frit
French poulet frit brings a touch of elegance to fried chicken, with its emphasis on quality ingredients and delicate flavors. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of herbs de Provence and garlic, then coated in a light batter and fried to a golden crisp. Served with fries and a fresh salad, it’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that embodies the essence of French cuisine. The combination of crispy chicken and fresh sides offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
11. Thai Basil Fried Chicken
Thai basil fried chicken is a fragrant dish that highlights the use of aromatic herbs and spices. The chicken is marinated with fish sauce, garlic, and Thai basil, then fried to a crispy perfection. The addition of fresh basil leaves and lime wedges adds a burst of flavor and freshness. Often enjoyed with jasmine rice, this dish offers a harmonious blend of savory and aromatic elements, capturing the essence of Thai cooking. Perfect for those who love bold and vibrant flavors.
12. Peruvian Fried Chicken
Peruvian fried chicken offers a unique blend of flavors, drawing from the country’s diverse culinary influences. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of aji amarillo, garlic, and cumin, resulting in a rich and flavorful taste. Fried to a crispy golden brown, it’s often served with aji verde sauce, adding a tangy and spicy kick. This dish showcases the vibrant and bold flavors of Peruvian cuisine, making it a must-try for those looking to explore new and exciting tastes.
13. Mexican Pollo Frito
Mexican pollo frito brings a spicy twist to fried chicken, with its use of traditional Mexican spices and flavors. The chicken is marinated in lime juice, cumin, and chili powder, then fried to perfection. The result is a crispy, flavorful chicken that captures the essence of Mexican cuisine. Often served with a side of salsa and garnished with lime wedges and cilantro, this dish is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat and zest in their meals.
14. Filipino Fried Chicken
Filipino fried chicken offers a unique flavor profile, influenced by various culinary traditions. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, calamansi juice, and garlic, infusing it with tangy and savory notes. Coated in a seasoned flour mixture, it’s fried to crispy perfection. Often enjoyed with banana ketchup, this dish provides a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s a popular choice for family meals and festive occasions in the Philippines.
15. Brazilian Frango a Passarinho
Frango a Passarinho is a beloved Brazilian dish known for its crispy texture and flavorful taste. The chicken is marinated with garlic, lime juice, and spices, then fried until crispy and golden. Garnished with lime wedges and fresh parsley, it’s typically served as an appetizer or a main dish. The combination of tangy and savory flavors makes it a popular choice in Brazilian cuisine, offering a taste of the vibrant culinary traditions of the country.
16. South African Peri-Peri Chicken
Peri-peri chicken is a flavorful dish with roots in South African cuisine, known for its spicy and tangy taste. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of peri-peri sauce, garlic, and lemon juice, infusing it with bold flavors before being fried to a golden crisp. The result is a spicy, aromatic delight that’s perfect for those who enjoy a little heat. Served with lemon wedges and extra peri-peri sauce, it’s a dish that captures the vibrant culinary spirit of South Africa.
17. Indonesian Ayam Goreng
Ayam Goreng is a popular Indonesian fried chicken dish known for its rich spices and crispy texture. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of turmeric, coriander, and galangal, then fried to a golden brown. Garnished with fried shallots and served with sambal, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This dish is a staple in Indonesian cuisine, enjoyed for its aromatic and savory taste that pairs perfectly with steamed rice and traditional side dishes.
18. German Backhendl
Backhendl is a traditional German dish, offering a delightful twist on fried chicken. The chicken is seasoned with a mix of herbs and spices, then coated in breadcrumbs for a crispy finish. Fried to a golden brown, it’s often served with potato salad and lemon wedges. This dish is a favorite in Bavarian cuisine, known for its simple yet flavorful taste. The combination of crispy chicken and tangy sides makes it a comforting and satisfying meal, perfect for any occasion.
19. Moroccan Fried Chicken
Moroccan fried chicken is flavored with a blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. The chicken is marinated, offering a rich and aromatic taste that sets it apart. Fried until crispy, it’s often served with couscous and garnished with olives and preserved lemons. This dish captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine, known for its bold and vibrant flavors. Perfect for those who enjoy a touch of exotic spice in their meals, it’s a culinary journey through Morocco.
20. Canadian Poutine Fried Chicken
Poutine fried chicken combines two Canadian favorites: crispy fried chicken and poutine. The chicken is fried to a perfect crisp, then topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich gravy. Served with a side of crispy fries, this dish offers a decadent and indulgent experience. The combination of crunchy chicken, gooey cheese, and savory gravy makes it a comfort food classic. Whether enjoyed as a hearty meal or a late-night snack, poutine fried chicken is sure to satisfy cravings.