Korean chicken, whether it’s fried or grilled, has become a culinary sensation worldwide. Known for its irresistible crunch, bold flavors, and spicy kick, it’s no wonder that people everywhere are eager to enjoy this dish. But as delicious as Korean fried chicken or Korean BBQ chicken is, the real art lies in what you pair with it. The right side dish can elevate your dining experience, enhancing the unique flavors of Korean chicken.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best side dishes, sauces, and drinks to complement your Korean chicken. From traditional Korean sides like kimchi to international fusion dishes and healthier alternatives, this article will help you create a memorable meal. Let’s dive in!
Why Side Dishes Are Essential for Korean Chicken
Side dishes, or banchan as they’re called in Korean cuisine, are a crucial part of the dining experience. They aren’t just there to fill the table; they play an important role in balancing the bold, spicy, and savory flavors of Korean chicken. Each side dish offers different textures and tastes, making the meal more enjoyable. Some dishes refresh your palate between bites, while others enhance the flavors of the chicken itself.
The Bold Flavor of Korean Chicken
One of the most distinctive features of Korean chicken is its flavor profile. Korean fried chicken, in particular, is known for its crispy texture, achieved through a double-frying technique, and its gochujang (fermented chili paste) or soy garlic glaze, which adds layers of spice and sweetness. While this makes the chicken extremely flavorful, it can also be overpowering without the right balance of sides. That’s why choosing the right accompaniments is key to enhancing your overall meal.
For a rice-based pairing that complements these strong flavors, you can explore this rice recipe with Korean chicken for a perfectly balanced meal.
Traditional Korean Side Dishes (Banchan)
Traditional Korean side dishes are the backbone of a complete meal. Each banchan offers a unique flavor that complements the spicy, crispy texture of the chicken. Below are some must-try options.
1. Kimchi
Perhaps the most famous Korean side dish, kimchi is a fermented, spicy cabbage that is rich in flavor and packed with probiotics. The tangy, slightly sour taste of kimchi cuts through the richness of fried chicken, providing a refreshing contrast. Kimchi also offers a spicy kick that complements the bold flavors of gochujang or soy garlic sauces.
2. Pickled Radishes (Chikin-Mu)
Chikin-Mu is another essential side dish served with Korean fried chicken. These crunchy, slightly sweet radishes are pickled in a vinegar-based brine, providing a crisp, refreshing bite that balances the richness of the chicken. The tangy flavor also acts as a palate cleanser between bites, making it easier to enjoy more chicken without the flavors becoming overwhelming.
3. Korean Potato Salad
Korean potato salad is different from its Western counterpart. While still creamy and rich, it often includes sweet fruits like apples or raisins, adding a unique sweetness that contrasts the spiciness of the chicken. The smooth texture of the potato salad complements the crunchy texture of the fried chicken, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
4. Japchae (Stir-Fried Glass Noodles)
A beloved Korean side dish, Japchae is made from stir-fried glass noodles (sweet potato starch noodles) combined with vegetables like carrots, spinach, and mushrooms. Its slightly sweet and savory flavors make it an excellent accompaniment to balance the spicy and crispy chicken. As a lighter option, Japchae won’t overpower the main dish, allowing the chicken to remain the star of the meal
For those looking to experiment with other textures, this chicken crust Caesar salad pizza offers a delightful twist on combining flavors.
Rice-Based Side Dishes
Rice is a staple in Korean cuisine and pairs beautifully with fried chicken. Here are some classic and creative rice dishes that work well with Korean chicken.
5. Steamed White Rice
Steamed white rice is a simple yet effective side dish that helps neutralize the bold flavors of spicy chicken. Its soft texture and mild flavor make it the perfect accompaniment for Korean fried chicken, especially when it’s drenched in spicy or sweet sauce. The rice serves as a palate cleanser, allowing you to enjoy each bite of chicken without becoming overwhelmed by the spice.
6. Kimchi Fried Rice
If you want to add more flavor to your meal, kimchi fried rice is a fantastic option. This dish combines the spiciness of kimchi with the savory flavors of stir-fried rice, often incorporating vegetables, eggs, and sometimes pork. The spicy and tangy flavor of the kimchi fried rice complements the crispy chicken, adding even more depth to the meal.
7. Bibimbap
Bibimbap is a mixed rice dish topped with a variety of vegetables, an egg, and sometimes meat. The dish is often served with a dollop of gochujang, adding spice to the otherwise savory meal. Bibimbap offers a great textural contrast, and when paired with Korean chicken, it provides a complete, well-rounded meal. Each bite offers different flavors, from the crunchy vegetables to the soft rice and the rich egg yolk.
Vegetable-Based Side Dishes
Adding vegetables to your meal offers a lighter, refreshing contrast to the richness of Korean fried chicken. Here are some vegetable-based side dishes that pair beautifully with crispy chicken.
8. Korean Coleslaw
Korean coleslaw is a light and refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with Korean fried chicken. Unlike traditional coleslaw, which is creamy and heavy, Korean coleslaw has a slightly sweet, tangy dressing made with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a touch of sugar. The crunchy texture of the coleslaw offers a nice contrast to the crispy chicken, while the tangy flavor cuts through the richness.
9. Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers are simple yet flavorful additions to your Korean chicken meal. When grilled with Korean BBQ sauce, they take on a slightly smoky flavor that complements the crispy, spicy chicken. The natural sweetness of the vegetables contrasts nicely with the bold flavors of the chicken.
10. Gochujang Brussels Sprouts
For a more adventurous pairing, try gochujang Brussels sprouts. Roasted Brussels sprouts are tossed in gochujang sauce, giving them a spicy kick that mirrors the flavors of the chicken. The earthiness of the Brussels sprouts pairs beautifully with the tangy, spicy glaze, making it a perfect side for those who love bold flavors.
Western and Fusion Side Dishes
Korean chicken has also inspired fusion dishes that blend international flavors with traditional Korean ingredients. Here are some unique side dishes that take inspiration from around the world.
11. French Fries with Spicy Mayo
French fries are a universal favorite, and they pair surprisingly well with Korean fried chicken. For an extra kick, serve the fries with a side of spicy mayo made from gochujang and mayonnaise. The creamy, spicy sauce complements the crispy fries and the rich chicken, creating a satisfying side dish that’s hard to resist.
12. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries add a hint of sweetness to your meal, balancing the heat from the chicken. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a different texture from regular fries. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes contrasts nicely with the spicy flavors of gochujang sauce or soy garlic glaze on the chicken.
13. Mac and Cheese
For those craving comfort food, mac and cheese is an excellent side dish for Korean chicken. The creamy, cheesy texture of the mac and cheese provides a rich contrast to the crispy, spicy chicken. The neutral flavor of the cheese also helps to balance the heat, making this a great pairing for spice lovers who need a break from the fire.
Sauces and Drinks to Pair with Korean Chicken
No Korean chicken meal is complete without the right sauces and drinks. Here are some must-have accompaniments that will enhance your dining experience.
Sauces to Serve with Korean Chicken
- Gochujang Sauce – A spicy fermented chili paste that adds extra heat and depth to your fried chicken.
- Soy Garlic Sauce – For a sweeter, milder option, soy garlic sauce is perfect for those who want less heat but still crave flavor.
- Spicy Mayo – Creamy with a touch of spice, spicy mayo is ideal for dipping fries or adding an extra layer of flavor to your chicken.
Drinks to Serve with Korean Chicken
- Beer (Maekju) – The classic pairing with Korean fried chicken, beer offers a refreshing contrast to the spicy and crispy chicken.
- Soju – A popular Korean spirit, soju has a clean taste that balances the bold, spicy flavors of the chicken.
- Makgeolli – A slightly tangy rice wine that complements the richness of the chicken, adding a refreshing contrast.
Healthy and Low-Carb Side Dishes: What Goes Well with Korean Chicken?
For those looking for healthier or low-carb options, there are plenty of side dishes that pair well with Korean chicken without adding extra calories or carbs. Additionally, these sides maintain flavor and texture while keeping the meal light.
14. Cauliflower Rice: What Goes Well with Korean Chicken?
First, cauliflower rice is a fantastic low-carb alternative to steamed white rice. Not only is it light and fluffy, but it also makes for the perfect base to soak up the spicy sauces of Korean fried chicken. As a result, you won’t miss the carbs, and it provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
15. Cucumber Salad: What Goes Well with Korean Chicken?
Another excellent option is cucumber salad, a light and refreshing side dish that helps to cool the palate. Made with thinly sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, this salad is both crisp and tangy. Therefore, it’s the perfect complement to the bold flavors of Korean fried chicken.
16. Kale Chips: What Goes Well with Korean Chicken?
Finally, for a crunchy, low-carb side, kale chips are an excellent option. These baked chips are light and crispy, offering a healthier alternative to fries or potato chips. Moreover, the slight bitterness of the kale pairs well with the richness of the chicken, making it a balanced and healthy side dish.
Conclusion
Korean chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides. Whether you’re enjoying traditional banchan, international fusion dishes, or lighter, low-carb options, there’s a side dish that will enhance your meal. The right sauces and drinks can also elevate the experience, ensuring that every bite of chicken is perfectly balanced.
By experimenting with these side dishes, you can create a well-rounded, flavorful meal that highlights the best of Korean fried chicken. Whether you prefer bold and spicy flavors or lighter, refreshing sides, there’s a pairing here for everyone. Don’t forget to enjoy your meal with a refreshing drink like soju or beer to complete the experience!