Four Fried Chicken Dishes from Around the World

Americans tend to associate fried chicken with the southern United States, but did you know that there are amazing fried chicken dishes served all around the globe? We’ve compiled a list of four international fried chicken dishes and suggestions on where to eat them when you’re in each country. Enjoy this crispy and oh-so-satisfying world tour!

Ayam Goreng – Indonesia

Ayam goreng, Indonesian for fried chicken, is different from its American counterpart. Instead of relying on heavy breading for flavor, Ayam Goreng is prepared with a marinade of garlic, turmeric, and lemongrass and then fried in coconut oil. The chicken is typically served with fried rice or fried vegetables. Where to eat ayam goreng: One of the most popular dishes in Bali, you won’t have a hard time finding this specialty. We recommend Miro’s Garden Restaurant (for the chicken as well as the ambiance).

Kara-age – Japan

We’re big fans of Japanese street food, and kara-age definitely falls under this category. Kara-age is a term used to describe any meat or fish fried in oil, and is similar to tempura. The chicken version is a Japanese street food staple, and is typically served in bite size pieces in a paper cone. There’s a variation called “nankotsu kara-age” which is made using chicken breast cartilage marinated in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Where to eat kara-age: Street food stands in Tokyo are your best bet for this tasty finger food. We recommend checking out the vendors at Ameyayokocho Market in the Ueno district.

Yassa Poulet – Senegal

Yassa Poulet (chicken yassa) is frequently referred to as the national dish of Senegal. This West African version of fried chicken relies heavily on peanut oil in the marinade, giving the dish a rich, distinctive flavor. Yassa can be prepared using other meats as well. All yassa dishes are served with onions and vegetables over a bed of white rice. Some chefs will include a scotch bonnet pepper that you can squeeze over the dish to turn up the heat. Where to eat yassa poulet: You’ll have no trouble finding yassa poulet in nearly every restaurant in the country’s capital city, Dakar. We recommend trying the copious portions (for reasonable prices) at Chez Loutcha.

Jamaican Fried Chicken – Jamaica

Jamaican fried chicken is known for being exceptionally tender and highly seasoned and spiced (heavy garlic, ginger, thyme, paprika, and hot peppers define its flavor profile). It’s often served with a fresh green salad or boiled potatoes to balance out the spice. Where to eat Jamaican fried chicken: Collette’s Bar in Negril serves up some of the best Jamaican fried chicken on the island.

Is there an international fried chicken dish that you would add to this list? Let us know what it is in the comments section!