Discover the Unmatched Taste of Asian-Inspired Chicken Wings in Chicago
Pilsen's Vietnamese-Inspired Wings: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation
In Pilsen, Cà Phê Dá and Dang Good Wings have become local favorites for their Vietnamese-inspired chicken wings. Chef Thai Dang, who owns both establishments, has masterfully crafted a dish that pays homage to Buffalo wings while infusing it with Vietnamese flavors. The wings are marinated in a blend of fish sauce, sugar, chilies, and garlic, creating a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes. This marinade is then dredged in cornstarch and rice flour before being fried twice to achieve an unparalleled crispy texture.
The final touch comes when the wings are tossed in a vibrant sauce made from fish sauce, sugar, fresh Thai chilies, garlic, and scallions. For those seeking a bit more heat, a variation using sriracha and Thai chile provides an extra kick, balanced by the sweetness of sugar and the pungency of garlic. Dang’s creation is not only a nod to his heritage but also a perfect match for his last name – a coincidence that adds a delightful twist to the dining experience.
Korean Fried Chicken: A Sweet and Spicy Sensation in Lakeview
For over 18 years, Crisp in Lakeview has been serving up Korean fried chicken that has captivated the taste buds of locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s signature two-step frying process ensures that each piece of chicken is both juicy and crispy. The first step involves pressure frying, which creates a protective shell around the meat, locking in moisture. The second fry, done in an open fryer, delivers the coveted crunch that makes Korean fried chicken so irresistible.
Once fried to perfection, the chicken is doused in one of two sauces, each offering a distinct flavor profile. The Seoul Sassy sauce is a soy-ginger-garlic glaze that brings a sweet and tangy punch, while the Crisp BBQ sauce is based on gochujang, a smoky, sweet pepper paste. This sauce offers a familiar barbecue flavor but with a twist – it’s tomato-free and packs more heat. Finished with sesame seeds and scallions, these wings are a testament to the versatility and depth of Korean cuisine.
Gam Pong Wings: A Hidden Gem in Albany Park
Hidden in Albany Park, Great Sea Restaurant serves a unique take on chicken wings known as Gam Pong. This dish has its roots in the early 1980s when ethnically Chinese Koreans settled in the area. Noticing the affordability of chicken wings in the United States, they adapted a recipe they had brought from Korea, transforming whole chickens into lollipop-style wings. To make the dish more manageable, they French-trimmed the wings, creating a handle-like shape that made eating less messy.
Great Sea’s version of Gam Pong wings stands out for its spicier, stickier, and sweeter sauce compared to other local offerings. The sauce is so popular that it’s now sold separately, allowing customers to enjoy its bold flavors at home. Monica Eng, co-author of "Made in Chicago: Stories Behind 30 Great Hometown Bites," notes that this dish is a prime example of how immigrant communities have shaped Chicago’s culinary landscape. The innovation and adaptability of these chefs have resulted in a dish that is both nostalgic and excitingly new.
Bonchon and CM Chicken: Expanding the Korean Wing Legacy
Chicago’s love affair with Korean-style wings extends beyond Crisp, with Bonchon and CM Chicken adding their own twists to the tradition. Both chains, with multiple locations across the city, offer variations on the classic Korean fried chicken formula. Bonchon, known for its double-fried method, delivers wings that are exceptionally crispy and flavorful. CM Chicken, meanwhile, emphasizes the importance of the sauce, offering options that range from mild to fiery hot.
These restaurants have played a significant role in popularizing Korean fried chicken in Chicago, introducing many to the joys of this crispy, saucy treat. Whether you prefer your wings sweet, spicy, or somewhere in between, these establishments provide a taste of Korea that is sure to satisfy any craving. With their growing presence in the city, it’s clear that Korean-style wings are here to stay, offering a delicious alternative to the traditional American fare.