Mala Buldak Chicken represents the thrilling intersection of two of Asia's most beloved
spicy food traditions. "Buldak" (불닭) literally translates to "fire chicken" in Korean —
a dish that gained international fame for its intense heat and addictively sweet-spicy
sauce. "Mala" (麻辣) is a signature flavour of Sichuan cuisine, combining the numbing
sensation of Sichuan peppercorns (ma) with the heat of chili peppers (la). At Chicken
Avenue, we've fused these two powerhouse traditions into one unforgettable dish.
Our Mala Buldak Chicken starts with our signature double-fried chicken — the same crispy,
juicy foundation that makes all our Korean fried chicken exceptional. The magic happens
when we toss the hot chicken in our house-made Mala Buldak sauce, a carefully balanced
blend of Korean gochujang, chili flakes, and authentic Sichuan peppercorns that creates
a symphony of sensations. The initial sweetness gives way to building heat, while the
mala effect creates an electrifying tingle across your palate.
What Makes Our Mala Buldak Chicken Special
- Authentic Sichuan mala peppercorns for genuine numbing sensation
- Korean buldak-style fire chicken base
- Complex heat that builds and lingers
- Double-fried chicken maintains crunch despite the sauce
- Perfect balance of ma (numbing) and la (spicy)
- For adventurous eaters and spice enthusiasts
The Mala Buldak Experience
Eating our Mala Buldak Chicken is a journey through layers of flavour and sensation. The
first bite delivers a hint of sweetness, quickly followed by the familiar heat of Korean
chili. Then comes the mala — that distinctive numbing, tingling sensation that Sichuan
peppercorns are famous for. Your tongue might feel slightly buzzy, almost vibrating, while
the heat continues to build. This combination creates a uniquely addictive experience that
keeps spice lovers coming back. The chicken itself remains remarkably crispy even under
the generous coating of sauce, providing that essential textural contrast that makes every
bite satisfying.
A Word of Warning
Our Mala Buldak Chicken is not for the faint of heart. This is a serious spice level that
will challenge even experienced heat seekers. The combination of Korean fire and Sichuan
mala creates an intense experience that lingers. We recommend having a cold drink ready,
and perhaps some of our milder sides like rice or corndogs to balance the heat. But for
those who embrace the burn, Mala Buldak Chicken delivers one of the most exciting flavour
experiences available in Calgary.
