Fried chicken lovers, rejoice!
There’s a popular variation of fried chicken that is crispy and delicious and may be slightly healthier than your typical fast-food offerings: Korean fried chicken.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of Korean fried chicken to answer some pressing questions.
How many calories are in a plate of Korean fried Chicken?
Is it healthier than regular fried chicken?
Grab a plate and some napkins—we’re about to get to the bottom of this tantalizing mystery.
The Caloric Breakdown of Korean Fried Chicken
Before discussing whether Korean fried chicken is a healthier option, let’s first look at the calorie count.
The number of calories in a plate of Korean fried chicken can vary depending on factors like portion size, the type of sauce you choose, and any additional ingredients added.
On average, a single piece of Korean fried chicken (about 100 grams) contains the following:
- 200-250 calories
- 14-18 grams of fat
- 16-18 grams of carbohydrates
- 10-14 grams of protein
Keep in mind that these numbers can fluctuate depending on the restaurant or recipe, but this should give you a general idea of the calorie content of this delicious dish.
Is Korean Fried Chicken Healthier Than Normal Fried Chicken?
Now that we better understand the caloric breakdown, it’s time to compare Korean fried chicken to its traditional, American-style counterpart.
Is Korean fried chicken healthier?
First, let’s discuss what sets Korean fried chicken apart from regular fried chicken:
Double-frying technique: Unlike regular fried chicken, which is typically fried once, Korean fried chicken undergoes a double-frying process. This method removes more fat from the skin, resulting in a lighter, crispier crust.
Thinner batter: The batter used for Korean fried chicken is generally lighter than American-style fried chicken. It allows for less oil absorption and a lower overall calorie count per piece.
Different sauces and seasoning: Many Korean fried chicken dishes are tossed in flavorful, often spicy, sauces, while others are served with a light sprinkling of seasoning.
These ingredients add a unique taste and may contain fewer calories than traditional gravy or heavy breading.
However, there’s more to health than just calories. Nutritional content, such as fat, sodium, and sugar, should also factor into our comparisons:
Fat Content
In general, Korean fried chicken contains less fat per serving when compared to regular fried chicken.
With fewer grams of fat per piece, this may be a slightly healthier option for those watching their fat intake.
Sodium Content
Korean fried chicken does tend to have a higher sodium content, mainly due to the sauces and seasonings used.
Those watching their sodium intake should be cautious with their sauce choices and consumption.
Sugar Content
Since many Korean fried chicken dishes come coated in flavorful sauces, sugar content can be a concern.
Some flavourings may contain high levels of sugar, which could contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large quantities.
Conclusion
In summary, Korean fried chicken offers a unique, tasty alternative to traditional fried chicken.
It tends to contain fewer calories and less fat per serving than your typical Southern-style fried chicken. However, it is important to note that the sodium and sugar content can vary depending on the sauces and seasonings used.
When ordering Korean fried chicken, pay attention to portion size and opt for light or no sauce whenever possible. This way , you can feel good about your meal without sacrificing taste. Enjoy!