Korean Fried Chicken (Jihyo Style) — 치킨
Why this food?
Korean fried chicken is THE ultimate K-pop celebration food, and TWICE's Jihyo has made it her signature cheat meal. Double-fried until impossibly crispy on the outside and juicy within, this dish represents the indulgent comfort that keeps idols fueled through their toughest schedules. Master Jihyo's favorite and understand why this simple dish commands cult-like devotion across Korea and the K-pop world.
🇰🇷 K-Culture Tip
Korean fried chicken (치킨) became a cultural phenomenon in the 2000s, with double-frying techniques perfected to create the signature ultra-crispy exterior. Today, Korea has over 10,000 fried chicken restaurants — more per capita than any country worldwide. For K-pop idols like Jihyo, it's not just food; it's a ritual reward after grueling performances and a nostalgic comfort that connects them to home.
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Substitute Ingredients
All available at Walmart
| Original | Substitute |
|---|---|
Whole chicken, cut into pieces 닭 | Walmart Great Value Chicken Pieces (Mixed) Great Value Thighs and drumsticks crisp up best; avoid breast meat which dries out easily Shop at Walmart |
Cornstarch coating blend 옥수수 전분 | Walmart Great Value Cornstarch Great Value Cornstarch creates the signature crispy crust better than regular flour — this is the Korean secret Shop at Walmart |
Vegetable oil for deep frying 식용유 | Walmart Great Value Vegetable Oil Great Value You'll need enough oil for deep frying; neutral oils work best for authentic Korean fried chicken Shop at Walmart |
🛒 Can't find it at Walmart? Try a Korean grocery store
Your Shopping List
Walmart edition
- 2 lbs Walmart Great Value Chicken Pieces (Mixed)
- 1 cup Walmart Great Value Cornstarch
- 2-3 quarts Walmart Great Value Vegetable Oil
Instructions
- 1
Step 1: Pat 2 lbs chicken pieces completely dry with paper towels — moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- 2
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup cornstarch, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, and ½ teaspoon cayenne. Coat chicken evenly, shaking off excess.
- 3
Step 3: Heat vegetable oil to 350°F in a deep pot or Dutch oven. Carefully place chicken pieces in oil (work in batches to avoid overcrowding) and fry for 8-10 minutes until light golden. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- 4
Step 4: Increase oil temperature to 375°F. Return chicken pieces to hot oil for a second fry for 3-5 minutes until deep golden-brown and crispy. This double-fry technique is the Korean fried chicken secret.
- 5
Step 5: Drain on fresh paper towels and serve immediately with Korean honey butter sauce, spicy gochujang dip, or simple salt. Serve while still hot and crackling — this is Jihyo's moment.
