Korean fried chicken trend takes root in Waukee with Chikin Lickin
Chikin Lickin in Waukee is serving up Korean fried chicken and other Asian street food, marking the growing popularity of this culinary trend in Iowa.
The restaurant offers a variety of options, including wings, tenders, combos, sandwiches, sides and snacks.
"You got that fried chicken with crunch in it, then you toss in the sauce," said co-owner Thi Nguyen, who highlighted the importance of the sauce in their offerings. "We got seven different kinds of sauce, ranging from sweet to spicy."
Nguyen emphasized the flavorful menu crafted to bring the Korean fried chicken experience to Iowa.
Nguyen, a Vietnamese American who grew up in Iowa and graduated from Roosevelt High School, said, "Where the family can hang out and street food from Korea."
The restaurant also offers sides like fried rice and Chi-Maek, which is drinking beer with the Korean fried chicken, as part of the cultural experience.
"Asian culture, especially Korean K-pop, really get popular here in the Midwest," Nguyen said, noting the increasing influence of Asian culture in the region.
Despite the challenges of being a business owner, Nguyen finds the hard work rewarding.
"Something we just passion to create something new to the area and just at the end of the day, just have fun at the same time," he said.
Beyond offering a cultural culinary experience, the owners have initiated a program where customers can pre-purchase an item for someone in need to claim later.
"Immigrants come to the state, so we know it's really important to give back to the community. You know, we cannot thrive without the support from the locals and get the support back," Nguyen said.
As Chikin Lickin celebrates its one-year anniversary this month, it also marks a celebration of culture and community, with many customers joining the movement to pay it forward.
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