Korean chicken, particularly Korean fried chicken, is famous for its crispy texture and bold, rich flavors. It’s a dish that’s both savory and slightly spicy, making it a favorite for many. However, what makes a Korean chicken meal truly stand out is the combination of side dishes served alongside it. So, what can I serve with Korean chicken to create a balanced, flavorful meal? This comprehensive guide will help you find the best side dishes to serve, from traditional Korean sides to international fusion dishes. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Korean cuisine and explore some fantastic pairing options.
1. Traditional Korean Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken
When you’re considering what to serve with Korean chicken, starting with traditional Korean side dishes is a no-brainer. These sides have been enjoyed for generations and complement the strong flavors of Korean chicken perfectly.
Kimchi
Kimchi is a must-have side dish when serving Korean chicken. This spicy, fermented cabbage dish adds a bold, tangy flavor to the meal, creating a perfect contrast with the crispy, savory chicken. Kimchi is rich in flavor, and its slightly sour taste helps balance the sweetness and spiciness of the chicken. Whether you’re serving fried or grilled chicken, kimchi is always a fantastic pairing.
- Pro tip: For a more varied meal, try serving different types of kimchi such as radish kimchi (kkakdugi) or cucumber kimchi (oi-sobagi). These variations can add even more layers of flavor to your meal.
For a delicious twist on a classic Korean dish, try this Bibibop-style chicken recipe for a flavorful addition to your meal
Korean Fried Rice
Fried rice is a versatile side that works beautifully with Korean chicken. Unlike plain steamed rice, Korean fried rice is packed with flavor. The secret ingredient here is gochujang, a Korean chili paste that adds a spicy kick. Add in some veggies, bacon, or sausage, and you’ve got a side dish that’s rich, savory, and a perfect complement to the chicken.
- Ingredients typically include: Bacon, snow peas, garlic, and ginger for extra flavor. You can also add an egg on top to make the dish even more filling.
Japchae (Glass Noodles)
Japchae is a traditional Korean dish made from sweet potato glass noodles, stir-fried with vegetables and soy sauce. This side dish is light yet packed with flavor. The sweet and savory taste of japchae pairs well with the rich flavors of Korean chicken, while the soft texture of the noodles adds a pleasant contrast to the crispiness of the chicken.
- Key ingredients: Carrots, spinach, onions, and mushrooms are common additions to japchae. It’s a great dish to serve if you want something lighter but still flavorful.
- Fun fact: Japchae is often served during celebrations and special occasions in Korea, but it’s also a wonderful everyday dish that’s easy to prepare.
Tteokbokki (Spicy Stir-Fried Rice Cakes)
Tteokbokki is one of the most beloved Korean street foods. Made with soft, chewy rice cakes in a spicy, sweet sauce, this dish adds a comforting, hearty element to your meal. The spiciness of tteokbokki complements the sweetness and crispiness of Korean fried chicken perfectly.
- Cooking tip: To get the best texture, make sure to soak the rice cakes before cooking. This helps them achieve the ideal chewiness.
- Variations: Add fish cakes or boiled eggs to your tteokbokki for a more filling side dish.
Gamja Jorim (Braised Potatoes)
If you’re looking for a slightly sweet and savory side dish, Gamja Jorim is an excellent choice. These braised potatoes are cooked in a soy-based sauce until they become tender and flavorful. The natural sweetness of the potatoes pairs well with the crispy texture of Korean chicken, making it a satisfying addition to your meal.
- Pro tip: Add carrots, onions, or bell peppers for extra crunch and color. The combination of vegetables creates a beautiful contrast in texture and flavor.
Egg Roll Omelette
A Korean egg roll omelette is another traditional side dish that is often served with chicken. The eggs are rolled into layers, often stuffed with vegetables or meat, and sliced into bite-sized pieces. This side dish is not only delicious but also adds a pop of color to your meal.
- Variations: You can customize the fillings based on your preference. Some popular options include spinach, mushrooms, or ham.
2. Fresh Korean Salads and Light Sides to Balance the Meal
When thinking about what can I serve with Korean chicken, it’s essential to include lighter options. Fresh salads and light side dishes help balance out the rich and bold flavors of Korean chicken. They add a refreshing contrast, ensuring that your meal is not too heavy.
Spicy Cucumber Salad
Spicy cucumber salad is a quick and refreshing side dish that pairs perfectly with Korean chicken. The cucumbers are lightly dressed with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and chili flakes, making them cool yet spicy. This side dish provides a much-needed contrast to the rich, bold flavors of fried chicken.
- Pro tip: Make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for an hour before serving. The flavors will intensify, and the cucumbers will become even crisper.
Seasoned Spinach (Sigeumchi Namul)
Seasoned spinach is a simple but flavorful Korean side dish that’s perfect for balancing out the richness of fried chicken. Spinach is blanched, then seasoned with sesame oil, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame seeds. The result is a light and healthy side that complements the bold flavors of the chicken without overpowering it.
- Healthy and quick: This dish only takes a few minutes to prepare, making it an easy addition to your meal.
Pickled Radishes
Pickled radishes are a common side dish served in Korean restaurants, especially with fried chicken. They provide a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that helps cut through the richness of the chicken, adding a refreshing bite. Plus, they add a crunchy texture to your meal, making them a great contrast to the crispy chicken.
- Pro tip: These pickled radishes can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The longer they sit, the more flavorful they become.
Korean-Style Coleslaw
A Korean-style coleslaw adds a fresh and tangy flavor to your meal. It’s similar to regular coleslaw but with a Korean twist, featuring ingredients like gochujang, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. The spicy, tangy flavors of the coleslaw work beautifully with the crispy chicken, providing a refreshing contrast.
- Variations: Add shredded carrots, purple cabbage, and scallions for extra crunch and color.
Pickled radishes are a classic accompaniment. Discover the traditional white radish served with Korean fried chicken to add more authenticity to your meal.
3. Street Food-Inspired Side Dishes
Street food-inspired side dishes bring a fun and casual element to your meal. These sides are perfect for when you want to add a bit of excitement to the table and create a more laid-back dining experience. So, what can I serve with Korean chicken if I want something street food-inspired? Here are some options.
Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread
Korean cream cheese garlic bread is a unique twist on traditional garlic bread. This version features a crispy exterior and a soft, creamy interior filled with garlic and cream cheese. It’s a street food favorite in Korea and pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of Korean chicken. The sweetness of the bread contrasts nicely with the spiciness of the chicken, making it a perfect addition to your meal.
- For more recipes: Check out this recipe on Korean cream cheese garlic bread for a detailed guide.
Bao Buns
Soft, fluffy bao buns are another excellent side dish to serve with Korean chicken. These steamed buns can be filled with chicken or served on the side to soak up the sauces. Their soft, pillowy texture is a great contrast to the crispy chicken, and the slightly sweet flavor of the buns complements the spiciness of the chicken.
- Pro tip: Add fresh veggies like cucumber or pickled radishes inside the bao buns for extra crunch and flavor.
Kimchi Pancakes (Kimchijeon)
Kimchi pancakes are a popular Korean street food that works well as a side dish for Korean chicken. These savory pancakes are made with kimchi and flour, then fried until crispy. They add both texture and a tangy, slightly spicy flavor to your meal, making them an excellent complement to the chicken.
- Cooking tip: For extra flavor, add scallions or seafood like shrimp or squid to the pancake batter.
Potstickers (Mandu)
Potstickers, or mandu, are another street food-inspired dish that pairs well with Korean chicken. These dumplings can be filled with meat, vegetables, or a combination of both and are typically steamed or pan-fried. Their crispy exterior and savory filling make them a perfect accompaniment to the chicken.
4. Vegetarian and Vegan-Friendly Side Dishes
When thinking about what to serve with Korean chicken, it’s important to consider vegetarian and vegan options. Luckily, Korean cuisine is rich with plant-based dishes that pair well with the bold flavors of Korean chicken. Here are some delicious vegetarian and vegan-friendly side dishes that will please any guest.
Crispy Seaweed Kale
If you’re looking for a healthy yet delicious side dish, crispy seaweed kale is a great option. This dish is inspired by traditional crispy seaweed but uses kale for a more modern twist. The kale is baked until crispy and seasoned with sesame oil and soy sauce, creating a crunchy, salty side dish that’s perfect for pairing with Korean chicken.
Tofu Muchim (Braised Tofu)
Tofu doesn’t have to be bland. When braised in a flavorful soy-based sauce, tofu becomes a savory, umami-rich side dish that pairs well with Korean chicken. The tofu absorbs the sauce, becoming tender and flavorful, making it an excellent vegetarian option.
- Pro tip: Add vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.
Steamed Eggplant
Steamed eggplant is a light, tender side dish that works well with the bold flavors of Korean chicken. Eggplant has a mild flavor that allows the richness of the chicken to shine, while its soft texture provides a nice contrast to the crispy chicken.
- Serving suggestion: Drizzle the eggplant with a soy-based sauce for extra flavor.
Tempura Vegetables
Tempura vegetables are a fun and delicious side dish to serve with Korean chicken. Lightly battered and fried, these crispy veggies add a crunchy texture to the meal. Zucchini, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers are all great options for tempura.
- Pro tip: Serve with a light soy-based dipping sauce for extra flavor.
5. International Fusion Side Dishes
Looking to mix things up? Fusion dishes combine elements from different cuisines to create exciting new flavors. When serving Korean chicken, you can experiment with international sides to add variety and interest to your meal. Here are some fusion side dishes that pair beautifully with Korean chicken.
Japanese Miso Soup
Miso soup is a light, savory side that pairs well with Korean chicken. Made with fermented soybean paste and dashi broth, miso soup adds a subtle, umami-rich flavor to your meal without overpowering the chicken. Its warm, comforting nature makes it a great complement to the crispiness of the chicken.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy
If you’re looking for a healthy, simple side dish, stir-fried bok choy is a great choice. This Chinese-inspired dish is quick to prepare and provides a fresh, light contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken. The bok choy is stir-fried with garlic and soy sauce, making it a savory, crunchy side that balances out the spiciness of the chicken.
- Serving suggestion: Add sesame seeds or a splash of sesame oil for extra flavor.
Vietnamese Spring Rolls
Vietnamese spring rolls are light, refreshing, and full of flavor. These rolls are filled with fresh vegetables, herbs, and rice noodles, making them a perfect side dish to serve with Korean chicken. The cool, crisp textures of the spring rolls contrast nicely with the crispy, savory chicken.
Thai Papaya Salad
Thai papaya salad is a tangy, spicy salad that pairs well with the bold flavors of Korean chicken. The salad is made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, lime juice, and chilies, creating a refreshing and spicy side dish that balances out the richness of the chicken.
- Pro tip: Add crushed peanuts or dried shrimp to the salad for extra texture and flavor.
6. Dipping Sauces to Enhance Your Meal
No meal with Korean chicken is complete without a selection of dipping sauces. These sauces add an extra layer of flavor to the chicken and help bring the whole meal together. Here are some of the best dipping sauces to serve with Korean chicken.
Gochujang Mayo
Gochujang mayo is a simple yet flavorful dipping sauce that combines the creaminess of mayonnaise with the spiciness of gochujang. This sauce is perfect for dipping Korean fried chicken, as it adds both richness and heat.
Soy-Garlic Sauce
Soy-garlic sauce is a classic dipping sauce for Korean chicken. It’s savory, slightly sweet, and packed with garlic flavor. The soy sauce enhances the flavors of the chicken, while the garlic adds a bold, aromatic touch.
Curious about what makes Korean chicken so special? Learn more about the unique flavors in this guide on what makes Korean chicken different
Honey Butter Glaze
For a sweeter dipping option, try honey butter glaze. This rich, sweet sauce is often served with Korean fried chicken and adds a delightful contrast to the spicy sides. The buttery texture and sweetness of the glaze make it a great complement to the crispy chicken.
Korean BBQ Sauce
Thick, sweet, and smoky, Korean BBQ sauce is a popular dipping sauce for Korean chicken. It’s made with soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil, creating a flavorful sauce that pairs well with the bold, spicy flavors of the chicken.
- Pro tip: Brush the sauce over the chicken before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
7. Building a Complete Korean Meal
When planning a full meal with Korean chicken, variety is key. You’ll want to balance flavors and textures to create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience. Here’s how to build a perfect Korean meal with Korean chicken.
Start with Traditional Korean Sides
Choose a few classic Korean side dishes to ground your meal. Kimchi, seasoned spinach, and japchae are all excellent options. These dishes offer a mix of savory, spicy, and refreshing flavors that complement the richness of the chicken.
Add a Fresh Element
Incorporating light sides like spicy cucumber salad or pickled radishes will help balance out the heavier, richer dishes. These fresh sides add a crunchy, refreshing bite to the meal, ensuring that it doesn’t feel too heavy.
Incorporate Fun, Creative Dishes
Add some street food-inspired sides or fusion dishes for a bit of fun and variety. Bao buns, kimchi pancakes, and potstickers all bring an exciting twist to the meal, making it more interactive and enjoyable.
- Presentation tip: Serve the meal family-style, allowing everyone to mix and match their sides with the chicken. This creates a more relaxed and communal dining experience.
For the perfect rice pairing with Korean chicken, check out this rice recipe with Korean chicken to complete your meal.
FAQs: What Can I Serve with Korean Chicken?
When it comes to serving Korean chicken, you might have some common questions about the best sides and pairings. Here are the most frequently asked questions to help you plan the perfect meal.
What is the best side dish for Korean fried chicken?
Kimchi is one of the most traditional and popular side dishes to serve with Korean fried chicken. Its tangy, spicy flavor contrasts beautifully with the rich, savory chicken, making it the perfect pairing.
What vegetables go with Korean chicken?
Seasoned spinach, pickled radishes, and steamed eggplant are all great vegetable options to serve with Korean chicken. These light, fresh sides balance out the bold, spicy flavors of the chicken.
What sauces go well with Korean fried chicken?
Some popular sauces to serve with Korean fried chicken include gochujang mayo, soy-garlic sauce, honey butter glaze, and Korean BBQ sauce. Each of these sauces enhances the flavor of the chicken without overpowering it.
Can you serve Korean fried chicken with rice?
Yes! Korean fried rice is a flavorful side dish that works perfectly with Korean fried chicken. The rice is seasoned with gochujang and other spices, making it a delicious complement to the chicken.
Conclusion: Final Thoughts on What to Serve with Korean Chicken
Choosing the right sides to serve with Korean chicken can elevate your meal and create a balanced, flavorful dining experience. From traditional Korean dishes like kimchi and japchae to fusion sides like miso soup and papaya salad, the options are endless. Experiment with different combinations of sides to find the perfect balance of flavors and textures that suit your taste. Whether you’re serving a casual meal or hosting a dinner party, these side dishes will take your Korean chicken to the next level. Enjoy the experience of mixing and matching these delicious dishes and creating your own perfect Korean-inspired feast!