Authentic Korean Fried Chicken - Pelicana Chicken

Pelicana Chicken is a beloved Korean fried chicken brand known for its crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken. For home cooks who yearn for the satisfaction of crispy fried chicken with a Korean twist, or for restaurant lovers looking to recreate the magic of Pelicana at home, this guide is your passport to chicken bliss. Here’s how you can bring the taste of Pelicana into your kitchen.

Introduction to Pelicana Chicken

Pelicana Chicken is a South Korean chain that's made a global name for itself with its signature spicy-sweet glaze and perfectly crunchy skin. The brand’s popularity has sparked a fervor for its unique taste, and this guide will help you capture it.

For many, the appeal of Pelicana Chicken lies in its ability to marry the universal comfort food that is fried chicken with a distinct Korean flavor profile. It's the perfect fusion of cultures and culinary techniques.

Ingredients and Tools

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of chicken wings or drumettes
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons potato starch (for extra crunch)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (for airy breading)
• 2-3 cups of cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
• Salt and pepper (for seasoning)

For the Marinade:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons rice wine (mirin)
• 2 teaspoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey

Optional Garnish:

• Toasted sesame seeds
• Thinly sliced green onions

Tools:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs for frying
• Deep fryer (optional, but recommended for safety)
• Meat thermometer
• Wire rack
• Paper towels

Preparing the Chicken

Step 1: Cleaning and Drying

Start by cleaning and patting dry your chicken pieces. Clean by rinsing them under cold water and then blot them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.

Step 2: Marinating the Chicken

In a bowl, mix all the marinade ingredients together. Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a bowl, then pour in the marinade. Seal or cover tightly, and place in the refrigerator for at least an hour, but overnight is best for the flavors to infuse.

Breading and Frying

Step 3: The Breading Station

Prepare a breading station with three separate bowls. In the first bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, potato starch, and baking powder. The second bowl should hold a couple of beaten eggs, and the third will be for the finished breaded pieces.

Step 4: Breading the Chicken

One at a time, coat the marinated chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring an even and thick coat. Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, then dredge again in the flour mixture. This double coating is the secret to that Pelicana-like crunch.

Step 5: Frying the Chicken

Heat your oil in a pan or deep fryer to 350°F - 375°F. Fry the chicken in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. For best results, turn the pieces occasionally for even cooking and browning. Each batch should take about 10-12 minutes, and the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F.

Step 6: Draining and Resting

Once golden brown and crispy, transfer the fried chicken to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain and rest. This helps to keep the exterior texture ideal.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Style

Pelicana Chicken is often served family-style on a large platter, with garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions sprinkled on top for that final touch of authenticity.

Side Dishes

Pair your Pelicana Chicken with classic Korean sides like kimchi, or keep it traditional with pickled daikon. For the less adventurous, a simple cabbage slaw is a perfect match.

Sauces

For additional flavor, serve with a side of gochujang or choose from a variety of Korean dipping sauces. Even a classic ranch dressing can complement the heat and sweetness of Pelicana-inspired chicken.

Conclusion

The process of recreating Pelicana Chicken in your own kitchen is not only about the end result. It's a culinary adventure that invites you to explore new tastes and cooking techniques. Experiment with different levels of spice, and breading crunch, and even make vegetarian variations with tofu or tempeh.

Most importantly, have fun in the kitchen! Cooking is a delightful experience, especially when you get to share the joy of a delicious dish with others. Don't forget to share your Pelicana Chicken creations with us and other food enthusiasts. Happy frying!